equilibrium

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equilibrium In geomorphology, a steady state of balance between the processes acting on a landscape and the resisting Earth materials so that over time the geometric shape of the landscape is little changed. Individual land-forms, such as river profiles and hillslopes, may show similar balance. As it is recognized that a perfect balance cannot exist between input and output of energy, the terms ‘quasi-’ and ‘dynamic’ equilibrium are sometimes used. Quasi-equilibrium is an apparent equilibrium which is recognized for short periods of time.

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