Theoretical course with laboratory exercises on the main applications of quantitative geomorphology. Geomorphological hazard and risk. Methods for hazard forecasting and mapping. Land systems. River network dynamics. Soil erosion, basics and numerical modelling.
Selby M.J. 1993, Hillslope materials and processes
Learning Objectives
At the end of the course the student shall be able to: analyse given landscapes from the point of view of the geomorphological processes conditioning them using state-of-the-art techniques in geomorphometry, remote sensing, data mining, build simple forecasting scenarios for modelling the evolution of hillslope processes, know how to select and gather the data needed for the analysis of morphogenetic processes at large scale, also using GIS and remote sensing tools.
Prerequisites
Recommended courses:
Watershed Hydrology, Geology
Teaching Methods
Lectures and computer laboratory
Further information
Frequency of lessons is highly recommended, but not mandatory;
Type of Assessment
Oral and written examination
Course program
Geomorphological processes reminder with practical examples and exercises. Definition of risk and risk parameters for slope processes. Hazard analysis and mapping using statistical and deterministic methods. Use of GIS systems and computational environments (Matlab) for the application of machine learning methods to slope hazard assessment. Land systems, land units and land elements with exercises. River network dynamics fundamentals with focus on mapping and monitoring of statistical properties of catchments with special reference to the connection between catchment geometry and landscape evolution. Soil depth modelling. Soil erosion. Causes, effects, analysis and tools. Empirical and deterministic numerical models for the prediction and mapping of soil losses. Application of semi-empirical and physical methods for the prediction of soil losses. Radar remote sensing with focus on space-borne and ground-based SAR interferometry (InSAR) and multi-interferometry (PS-InSAR). Ground deformation monitoring using InSAR and PS-InSAR.