Subaerial is an adjective that pertains to or exists in the area above the surface of the Earth, typically referring to land or structures. It describes anything that is located, formed, or processes taking place on or near the Earth's surface, but above water. The term is commonly used in geology, geography, and related fields to describe various phenomena and features that occur or are affected by atmospheric conditions and weathering processes.
In geological terms, subaerial processes refer to the weathering, erosion, and deposition activities that transpire on the Earth's surface, influenced by the combined effects of air, water, and other environmental factors. These processes include wind erosion, water erosion, the impact of freeze-thaw cycles, and the effects of temperature changes and chemical actions. The subaerial environment also encompasses features such as sand dunes, cliffs, and terraces that are shaped by these processes.
In geographical context, subaerial refers to landforms and features that are not submerged underwater, such as mountains, plateaus, valleys, and plains. It distinguishes them from subaqueous landforms that exist beneath the surface of a body of water, like submarine canyons or underwater formations.
In summary, subaerial relates to the Earth's surface and landforms that are exposed to atmospheric conditions, weathering agents, and other surface processes. It denotes anything situated or occurring on or above the Earth's surface that is not submerged in water.
