Chaos Theory, Fractal & Non-Linear Systems in Geomorphology

Geomorphic systems in systematic geomorphology approach are non-linear complex dynamic systems which have chaotic, random and unpredictable behavior. The theory of chaos studies these non-linear systems which are sensitive to their primal conditions. Geomorphic systems are however self-organized and Fractal indeed. This property could be seen in many fluvial, mass movements, soil systems and coastal wetlands. The chaos theory helps us to make a relationship between Form (Fractal dimension) and process (selforganized) in geomorphic phenomena. Chaos theory helps to recognize, analyze and perceive predictability of geomorphic systems. Complexity and chaotic behavior of geomorphic systems are so extraordinary that we cannot definitely apply math and physic rules on them or generalize them into a large scale. So, new approaches try taking use of simple and micro scale rules (math and physic) in the form of cellular automata models for analyzing & simulating the non-linear complex systems behavior in geomorphology.