What does geomorphology study?

Geomorphology is fundamentally concerned with the study of the physical features of the earth's surface and the processes that shape them. This field examines both the characteristics and the evolution of landforms, providing insights into how various geological, climatic, and physical forces interact to create the landscapes we observe today. By focusing on landforms, geomorphologists endeavor to understand the dynamics of erosion, sedimentation, tectonics, and other processes that contribute to the structure and function of the Earth's surface.

The other options, while related to earth sciences, do not encapsulate the essence of geomorphology. For instance, examining the compensation effects of geological features pertains to geological studies rather than geomorphological ones. The chemical properties of earth's materials fall under geochemistry, not geomorphology, as it concerns the composition and chemical behavior of minerals and rocks. Similarly, studying the biological impact on landforms relates more to biogeomorphology, which is a niche within geomorphology focusing on the interactions between biological organisms and landforms, rather than the broader physical characteristics itself. Thus, the correct option aligns perfectly with the primary focus of geomorphology.