Cold Environments

Question 1

what is the case study for cold environments?

Answer 1

Alaska

Question 2

where is Alaska?

Answer 2

American state, disconnected from the mainland, borders Canada

Question 3

2 physical characteristics of Alaska

Answer 3

-covered in permafrost
-low annual rainfall, due to cold conditions

Question 4

animal adaptations in Alaska

Answer 4

-Musk Ox have adapted to have warm fur in order to keep warm during the cold winter
-tundra wolves have short legs and small ears to conserve heat as well as big feet

Question 5

opportunities in Alaska

Answer 5

-fishing employs 78,500 people
-2 million tourists are attracted to the region

Question 6

challenges in Alaska

Answer 6

-oil pipeline cost $8 billion to build due to the need to lift it to prevent permafrost melt
-cold conditions mean communities are isolated for months of the year

Question 7

ways to conserve Alaska

Answer 7

-homes are build on stilts, to prevent the permafrost from damaging the house
-runways are painted white to reflect the sun, causing minimal warming to the ground