The concern of symmetry principle in geomorphology

Abstract

Importance of symmetry principle in geomorphology, though having been accepted, didn't lead to any significant results. It may be explained by complexity of relief (its imperfect or illegible symmetry) as well as by the absence of convenient definitions of symmetry and associated terms: a-, dis- and antisymmetry. In the paper the corrections of these concepts are given. The drawings shown lead to the conclusion that conception of «initial Earth's dissymmetry», used as background for lithosphere and relief evolution models, is incorrect. Author points out that in the Earth's landforms symmetric-antisymmetric systems (cell) are widespread; symmetry is also related to entropy. It gives theoretical geomorphology an opportunity to rise to higher level of math modeling - the level of nonlinear thermodynamics of unreversabie processes.