Abstract
A computer implementation of a stochastic model describing changes in a landform during lithologically controlled erosion is described. The model is a Markov chain in two dimensions where the noise component depends upon the underlying lithologies. A surface at any elevation above the present level can be reconstructed according to the characteristics of any of four generally accepted geomorphic theories. Erosion then proceeds until the desired reduction in elevation is achieved. The resulting surface then can be compared to an expected surface, such as the present one, and a measure of fit obtained. About 4096 geomorphically significant option combinations are available, including: isostatic adjustment to erosion, epeirogenic uplift, treatment of the landform parameters as random variables, and criteria for ending the simulation. A technique for validation based upon the random topology model of R. L. Shreve is included. An example covering about 5000 km 2 in the central Appalachians is described.
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