The scenario you've described is an example of uniformitarianism. This geologic principle posits that the processes shaping the Earth today, such as erosion by rivers, have been occurring in a similar manner throughout geological history. It suggests that the Earth was shaped by the same natural laws and processes we observe now, operating over long periods of time.
The Colorado River has been forming the Grand Canyon in Arizona for at least 6 million years. During this time, the river has slowly caused erosion of the rock. As the rock eroded, soil eroded as well, and plant populations have had to adapt to live in increasingly rocky conditions. The river continues to deepen and erode the canyon at a rate of a few milimeters per year. What geologic principle is this an example of? (use the lesson resource above)
geographism
gradualism
catastrophism
uniformitarianism
1 answer