Arid geomorphology : Changing perspectives on timescales of change

Auteur(s) et Affiliation(s)



Description :
This paper particularly highlights how applications of geochronology (e.g. cosmogenic isotope analysis, luminescence dating, and radiocarbon dating) are challenging or revolutionizing understanding of the timing and rates of arid geomorphological change. Four case studies from iconic arid landscapes illustrate changes over different timescales : (1) canyons of the Colorado Plateau region, southwest USA); (2) aeolian dunefields in central Australia; (3) palaeolakes in the Kalahari, central southern Africa; and (4) alluvial and bedrock-controlled rivers in the southwest USA. Other developments across the suite of geochronological techniques are also contributing to improved understanding of arid landscape dynamics and the links with late Cenozoic environmental changes, biological (including hominin) evolution and cultural developments, but many outstanding issues remain.


Type de document :
Article de périodique

Source :
Progress in physical geography, issn : 0309-1333, 2012, vol. 36, n°. 2, p. 262-284, nombre de pages : 23, Références bibliographiques : 6 p.

Date :
2012

Editeur :
Pays édition : Royaume-Uni, London, Sage Publications