What does "Physical Geography" focus on?

Physical geography focuses on the natural features and processes of the Earth, encompassing a variety of elements including landforms, climates, ecosystems, and the physical phenomena that shape the environment. This branch of geography examines how natural systems interact and influence the landscape, such as the effects of weathering, erosion, plate tectonics, and water cycles. By studying these aspects, physical geography provides a deeper understanding of the Earth's structure and dynamics, and how these factors impact human activities and the biosphere overall.

In contrast, other areas like cultural geography investigate the cultural practices of societies, economic geography looks into global economic systems, and historical geography explores the past events that shape geographical boundaries. Each of these fields offers unique insights, but they do not primarily address the physical characteristics and processes of the Earth, which is the essence of physical geography.