Physical geography seeks to identify and understand the linkages between the myriad natural components of earth's system, such as the atmosphere, the hydrosphere, the lithosphere, and the biosphere. The object of focus is primarily the earth that humans inhabit. Therefore, physical geographers also examine human modification of the natural processes that constitute the earth system.<br><br>At Syracuse University faculty engage in geomorphology, biogeography, and climatology through examining processes and their interactions at a variety of spatial and temporal scales and across a range of environments. Faculty conduct research in three principle areas: (1) fluvial and hillslope geomorphology, including soil erosion, sediment transport, and biogeomorphic interactions, (2) habitat disturbance in riparian and forest ecosystems, and (3) land use modification in urban settings and its impacts on climate processes and human response.