Answer physical geography

here are the solutions for question 2, with all the details. SECTION B: PHYSICAL GEOGRAPHY 2. (a) Define any TWO of the following: (i) Weathering: Weathering is the process of disintegration and decomposition* of rocks and minerals on or near the Earth's surface. It involves the breakdown of rocks into smaller pieces (physical weathering) or the alteration of their chemical composition (chemical weathering) without the removal of the weathered material. This process is a precursor to erosion. (ii) Wind abrasion: Wind abrasion is a type of mechanical weathering* where rock surfaces are eroded by the impact of wind-borne particles such as sand, dust, or ice crystals. These particles are picked up and carried by the wind, and when they strike exposed rock, they chip away at the surface, smoothing, polishing, or even carving out features over time. It is particularly effective in arid and semi-arid regions. (iii) The long profile of a river: The long profile of a river is a cross-sectional view* of the river channel from its source (headwaters) to its mouth (where it meets a lake or sea). It typically shows a concave shape, with a steep gradient in the upper course, a moderate gradient in the middle course, and a gentle gradient in the lower course. This profile reflects the river's erosional and depositional processes as it attempts to achieve a state of equilibrium. 2. (b) (i) Briefly describe THREE evidences to show that the earth is spherical. 1. Circumnavigation: Sailors have been able to travel continuously in one direction (e.g., east or west) and eventually return to their starting point, demonstrating that the Earth is a continuous, curved surface. Ferdinand Magellan's expedition in the 16th century is a famous example. 2. Ships appearing mast first: When a ship approaches from a distance, its mast (the highest point) becomes visible before its hull. This phenomenon occurs because the ship is gradually rising over the curved surface of the Earth, rather than appearing all at once as it would on a flat surface. 3. Lunar eclipses: During a lunar eclipse, the Earth passes between the Sun and the Moon, casting a shadow on the Moon. The shadow cast by the Earth on the Moon is always circular, regardless of the Earth's orientation. Only a spherical object can consistently cast a circular shadow from any angle. 2. (b) (ii) Briefly define the term Hydrological cycle. The hydrological cycle, also known as the water cycle, is the continuous movement of water on, above, and below the surface of the Earth. It involves processes such as evaporation, condensation, precipitation, infiltration, runoff, and transpiration, ensuring the constant recycling of water within the Earth's atmosphere, land, and oceans. 2. (c) Clearly state TWO problems created by each of the following: (i) Poor waste management: Environmental pollution: Improper disposal of waste contaminates soil, water bodies (rivers, lakes, oceans), and air, leading to health hazards for humans and wildlife. Disease spread: Accumulation of waste creates breeding grounds for pests like rats and insects, which can transmit diseases such as cholera, typhoid, and malaria. (ii) Water shortage (scarcity): Reduced agricultural output: Insufficient water for irrigation leads to crop failures, reduced food production, and potential food insecurity or famine. Health issues: Lack of access to clean water for drinking and sanitation increases the risk of waterborne diseases and poor hygiene, impacting public health. (iii) Floods: Loss of life and property: Floods can cause drowning, injuries, and extensive damage to homes, infrastructure (roads, bridges), and agricultural land, leading to significant economic losses. Displacement and disruption: Large-scale floods force people to evacuate their homes, disrupting livelihoods, education, and essential services, often leading to long-term displacement. (iv) Global warming: Sea-level rise: Melting glaciers and ice sheets, combined with thermal expansion of ocean water, cause sea levels to rise, threatening coastal communities with increased flooding and erosion. Extreme weather events: Global warming intensifies the frequency and severity of extreme weather phenomena such as heatwaves, droughts, heavy rainfall, and more powerful storms, leading to widespread damage and humanitarian crises. Send me the next one 📸