A comprehensive introduction to physical geography including information on the climate, volcanoes, erosion, the weather, ecosystems and humans. Fabulously illustrated with photographs, maps, diagrams and illustrations that will capture the imagination of young readers. Includes an extensive glossary, fact finder and world records. With internet links to recommended websites with maps, quizzes, games and homework information. The material in this book is also available as part of the Usborne Geography Encyclopedia. Chapters in this book include:Planet Earth-The Earth in Space-Looking at the Earth-The Seasons-Day and Night-Inside the Earth-The Earth's Crust-Rocks, Minerals and Fossils-The Eearth's Resources-Energy from EarthEarthquakes and Volcanoes-The Exploding Earth-Volcanic Variations-Natural Hot Water-Volcanic Islands-Living with Volcanoes-Earthquake Effects-How Earthquakes Happen-Earthquake Safety-Giant WavesClimate-The Earth's Atmosphere-Airt and Ocean Currents-Natural Cycles-Global Warming-Rainforests-Tropical Grasslands-Monsoons-Tropical Deserts-Mediterranea Climates-Temperate Climates-Polar Regions-Mountains-Changing ClimatesWeather-What is Weather?-Water and Clouds-Thunderstorms-Windstorms-Floods and Droughts-Freezing an Frying-Strange Weather-Weather ForecastingPlants and Animals-Plant Life on Earth-Animal Life on Earth-Ecosystems-Population-Farming-Farming MethodsShaping the Land-Soil-Looking after Soil-Weathering-ErosionRivers and Oceans-Rivers-River Erosion-Water in the Ground-Rivers of Ice-The Edge of the sea-Seas and Oceans-Using Seas and OceansUseful Information-Glossary-Maps and Lines-The Earth's Cycles-Sciences and Scientists-World Records-Measurements