Explore earth, water, air, and life as the global arena upon which mountains, floods, tornados, plants, animals and people coexist. The physical environment is the stage where human activities and the dance of life unfold. Physical geography is the "big picture" that investigates how global natural processes work and how they function as interrelated systems. This course is organized by the Earth's four mega systems or spheres - atmosphere, lithosphere, hydrosphere, and biosphere. Each sphere is examined within the context of weather, climate, biomes, soils, and landforms. Together, the inputs of energy, air, water, and earth into the living planet determine the value of the environment from which life is supported. Humans have the capacity to squander and steward resources. The Earth is our habitat; accordingly, we impact and modify our home. Throughout the course, in the context of case studies, students will learn how humans change the physical environment and that it is our responsibility to live sustainably. Offered Fall only.