Geosystems An Introduction to Physical Geography

Among the most highly regarded in physical geography, Robert Christopherson's bestselling texts are known for meticulous attention to detail, currency, accuracy, rich integration of climate change science, and strong multimedia program. Geosystems: An Introduction to Physical Geography,Eighth Editionis organized around the natural flow of energy, materials, and information, presenting subjects in the same sequence in which they occur in nature-an organic, holistic approach that is unique in this discipline. Each chapter also includes strong learning tools and a structured learning path, with Key Learning Concepts presented at the start of the chapter, Key Learning Concepts Review at the end of the chapter, and Critical Thinking questions integrated throughout. Offering current examples and modern science within a one-of-a-kind Earth systems organization, Christopherson combines student-friendly writing, outstanding art, and a strong multimedia program for a truly unique physical geography experience.

Robert W. Christopherson is Professor Emeritus of Geography, having taught 30 years at American River College, and is the author of the leading physical geography texts in the US and Canada.

He attended Cal State University-Chico, and Miami University, Oxford, Ohio.  His first textbook was published in 1992.  His textbooks have received several national textbook awards. Also, he was recognized for excellence in teaching with the 1999 “Distinguished Teaching Achievement Award” from the National Council for Geographic Education and the “Outstanding Educator Award” from the California Geographical Society. He was selected by American River College students as "Teacher of the Year" and received the “ARC Patrons Award” for teaching.   In 2009 he was elected to the Textbook and Authors Association prestigious Council of Fellows. He has spoken across the US and Canada to hundreds of colleges, groups, and at professional meetings. Robert was a key member of the Editorial Board for Goode's World Atlas, 22/E, published by Rand McNally.

Robert and his nature photographer wife, Bobbé Christopherson, completed eleven scientific expeditions to the Arctic and Antarctic regions since 2003. They returned May 2 from Antarctica and an expedition northward across the Atlantic Ocean to Cape Verde Islands off the coast of Africa. On these trips they gather materials for Christopherson's physical geography textbooks.

1 Essentials of Geography

PART I
The Energy-Atmosphere System
2 Solar Energy to Earth and the Seasons
3 Earth’s Modern Atmosphere
4 Atmosphere and Surface Energy Balances
5 Global Temperatures
6 Atmospheric and Oceanic Circulations
 
PART II
The Water, Weather, and Climate Systems
7 Water and Atmospheric Moisture
8 Weather
9 Water Resources
10 Global Climate Systems
 
PART III
The Earth-Atmosphere Interface
11 The Dynamic Planet
12 Tectonics, Earthquakes, and Volcanism
13 Weathering, Karst Landscapes, and Mass Movement
14 River Systems and Landforms
15 Eolian Processes and Arid Landscapes
16 The Oceans, Coastal Processes, and Landforms
17 Glacial and Periglacial Processes and Landforms
 
PART IV
Soils, Ecosystems, and Biomes
18 The Geography of Soils
19 Ecosystem Essentials
20 Terrestrial Biomes
21 Earth and the Human Denominator