Endogenic forces
Also called: Internal forces · Topic: Geomorphic Processes: Weathering, Mass Movement, Erosion and Soil Formation · NCERT: Class 9, Ch 2 "Shaping of the Earth's Surface"; Class 11, Ch 3 "Interior of the Earth"; Class 11, Ch 5 "Geomorphic Processes"
Meaning
Endogenic forces are forces that come from inside the earth. Their energy comes from radioactivity, rotational and tidal friction, and primordial heat (heat left over from when the earth formed). They work through diastrophism (movement and uplift of the crust) and volcanism (magma rising towards the surface). They are mainly land-building forces. Heat flow and crustal thickness differ from place to place, so the land they build is uneven.
Example
The Himalayas were raised by severe folding of the crust. This is a classic result of endogenic forces.
Don't confuse with
- Exogenic forces: these act at the surface, get their energy from the sun and wear land down. Endogenic forces build land up.