rise above the surrounding landscapes. They often have steep sides, high peaks and are the result of processes operating deep inside the earth.

are barren areas of land where little precipitation occurs and consequently living conditions are hostile for plant and animal life. They can experience temperature extremes: hot by day and freezing at night. However, not all desserts are hot.

are the most diverse landscapes on Earth. They are find in a variety of climates, ranging from the hot wet tropics to the cooler temperature areas. The lush vegetation found in these regions depends on a high level of rainfall.

are sometimes seen as a transitional landscape found between forests and deserts. They contain grasses of varying heights and coarseness, and small or widely spaced trees.

are landscapes that can be found in polar and alpine regions. Characterised by permafrost, they are too cold for trees to grow. Vegetation such as dwarf shrubs, grasses and lichens have adapted to the extreme cold and short growing seasons.

are landscapes that form when mildly acidic water flows over soluble rock such as limestone. Small fractures form, which increase in size over time and lead to underground drainage systems developing.

are landscapes that cover around three-quarters of the Earth and can be classified as freshwater or marine.

are areas of land are completely surrounded by water. They can be continental or oceanic. Oceanic landscapes rise from the ocean floor and are generally volcanic in origin. Continental landscapes lie on a continental shelf - an extension of an continent that is submerged beneath the sea.

are landscapes that have been altered or created by humans. They provide the setting for human activity from buildings to parks.