An up-to-date introduction to the changing surface of the Earth, from the solid crust to the waters, atmosphere, and living things that interact with itHow do natural forces erode and sculpt the Earth"s landscape? How are solid rocks worn away and how are they recycled? What influences climate change and what effect does this have on our natural environment? This book explains in accessible language how the planet is being constantly remodeled by powerful natural forces such as wind, water, and ice. It recreates past landscapes and explains how studying the evidence of past climates is a vital part of learning about the Earth"s climate system, and how and why change comes about. Packed with color photographs and diagrams, the book reveals how to recognize past events recorded in rocks and considers the challenge of predicting the Earth"s future.