physiography

Physiography is the branch of geography that studies the physical features of the Earth's surface in their spatial arrangement and interrelationships. It describes the external form of the landscape, including landforms such as mountains, plateaus, plains, and basins, as well as hydrological features, soils, and the influence of climate and vegetation on the surface. The primary aim is descriptive: to map and classify the observable components of a region and to outline how they are distributed and relate to each other.

The scope includes relief, lithology, hydrology, soils, climate, and biota, all considered for their role in shaping the landscape. Methods typically involve field observation, topographic surveying, cartography, remote sensing, and geographic information systems to produce physiographic maps and regional descriptions. While physiography can incorporate interpretations of the processes that form landscapes, it traditionally emphasizes description and spatial organization rather than detailed mechanisms.

Physiography is closely related to physical geography and geomorphology. Some traditions treat it as a historical or broader descriptive term, while others use it to describe broad regional landscapes, with geomorphology focusing more on process and causation.

Historically, the term emerged in the 19th century and has been used by various geographers in Europe and Asia. Today, physiography remains a foundational element in regional geographic surveys and educational curricula, providing a framework for understanding how landforms and environments are arranged across space.