Deserts Flashcards
1
Q
desert
A
A desert is classed as an area receiving less than 250mm of rainfall per year.
2
Q
Where are deserts found?
A
In the Tropic of cancer and capricorn due to the global atmospheric circulation model.
3
Q
hot deserts
A
- very dry all year round
- don’t have more than 5mm rain each year
- temperature is hot in the summer (35) and lower in winter (12)
- Night is very cold and no cloud
- soil is thin, dry because no plants, minerals or humus
4
Q
cactus
A
- stores water inside
- spikes to reduce surface area for predators to attack
- reduce transpiration
- succulents store water
5
Q
camall
A
- store fat in hump so don’t have to eat as often
- big eyelashes protect them from sun and dust
- hooves protect from hot sand
6
Q
fennec fox
A
- big ears to hear
- nocturnal
- blood circulation cools it down
7
Q
Thorny lizard
A
- cold blooded
- skin absorbs water
- doesn’t urinate
8
Q
Javelina
A
- sharp teeth to attack cactus
9
Q
Western desert - Farming
A
- high temperature and sunlight are favourable for agriculture
- water provided for irrigation
- aquifers stores of water beneath hot regions
10
Q
Western desert - mineral extraction
A
- western desert states are rich in minerals (coal, copper)
- Uranium mining near Grand Canyon
- Copper mining in Sonoran Desert
11
Q
Western desert - energy
A
- isolation provides opportunity for solar power
- Sonoran solar project produces energy for 100,000 homes
- HEP power plants provide communities with electricity
- 25 active oil production sites, provide 100+ employees
12
Q
Western desert - tourism
A
- most important source of income
- National parks
-Los Vegas attracts 37mil per year - Lake Powell and Lake Mead
13
Q
challenges of western deserts
A
- lack of water
- high temperatures
- low population density
14
Q
Housing
A
- flat roofs collect rainwater
- small windows
- whitewashed reflect heat
- aircon
15
Q
Accessibility
A
- road network
- route 66
- railroad
- air travel
