Geography Flashcards
1
Q
3 layers of Earth?
A
Crust, Mantle and Core
2
Q
Describe Crust
A
Outermost solid part of the earth.
Brittle in nature
Oceanic crust is thinner than continental crust
Continental crust is thicker in Himalayan regions approx 70km thick
Continental crust is Made up of heavier rocks like granite
Oceanic crust is made up of basalt
3
Q
Describe Mantle
A
Portion of interior below the crust.
Mohorovicic or Moho discontinuity separates the crust above from the mantle below.
Crust and upper part of mantle is called lithosphere. Its thickness ranges from 10-200km.
The upper portion of mantle is called asthenosphere and is the main source of magma.
Its density is higher than crust.
Mantle is in solid state.
Mantle is made up of silicate minerals rich in iron and magnesium.
4
Q
Asthenosphere
A
Upper portion of the mantle
It is plastic or soft layer
5
Q
Lithosphere
A
Crust + Cooler brittle upper part of the mantle
6
Q
Composition of Mantle
A
Silicate minerals rich in iron and magnesium
7
Q
Describe core
A
Outer core is in liquid state while inner core is in solid state.
Composed of NIFE layer
Weichert-Gutenberg discontinuity located at a depth of 2900 km is a core-mantle boundary. There is a sudden change of density here from 5.5g/cm3 of mantle to 10g/cm3
8
Q
Weichert-Gutenberg discontinuity
A
Weichert-Gutenberg discontinuity located at a depth of 2900 km is a core-mantle boundary. There is a sudden change of density here from 5.5g/cm3 of mantle to 10g/cm3
9
Q
Moho’s discontinuity
A
Between crust and mantle
10
Q
Lithospheric plates
A
Because the asthenosphere is soft and plastic, the rigid lithosphere can easily move over it.
The lithospheric shell is divided into large pieces called lithospheric plates. A single plate can be as large as a continent and can move independently of the plates that surround it.
There are 7 major and 20 minor types of lithospheric plates
11
Q
First order relief features
A
Continents and oceans
12
Q
Who gave continental drift theory?
A
Alfred Wegener
13
Q
Pangea
A
All the continents forming single continental mass is called pangea
14
Q
Panthalassa
A
Mega-ocean surrounding pangea
15
Q
Wegener’s continental drift theory?
A
According to Wegener, all the continents formed a single continental mass called Pangea surrounded by a mega ocean called Panthalassa. Around 20mya in the jurassic period, the super continent, Pangea began to split. pangea first broke into two large continental masses as Laurasia and Gondwanaland forming the northern and southern components respectively which continued to break into various smaller continents that exist today.
He proposed that continents are floating and constantly drifting on the Earth’s surface
His hypotheses later became the basis for plate tectonics
16
Q
Evidences of existence of Pangaea?
A
- Jig-Saw-Fit (The Matching of Continents)- The shorelines of Africa and South America facing each other have a remarkable and unmistakable shore line.
- Radiometric dating shows that age of rocks of both the costs of Atlantic are identical. This suggests that the ocean did not exist prior to jurassic age
- Palaeoclimatic evidence- The evidences of carboniferous glaciations in the form Tillite rocks are found in Brazil, Falkland, S.Africa, Madagascar, India and Antarctica shows that these landmasses once had the same climate which was possible only if they were contiguous.
- paleontological evidence- the distribution of Glossopteris flora too matches with the above contiguous areas of Gondwana land
17
Q
Tillite?
A
It is the sedimentary rock formed out of deposits of glaciers.
18
Q
Composition of Earth’s interior?
A
SIAL, SIMA, and NIFE
SIAL is composed of granite and dominated by Silical and Aluminium. It floats over SIMA which is denser (3) and has Silica and Magnesium.
NIFE is composed of nickel and Iron and is found in Core
19
Q
7 major lithospheric plates
A
Eurasian African Indo-Australian pacific north american South American Antarctic
20
Q
Important minor plates
A
Cocos Nazca Arabian Philippines Caroline Fuji etc
21
Q
Plate tectonics
A
Science of lithospheric plate motions is called plate tectonics.
It is not the continent that moved as believed by Wegener but plates of which continents are part
22
Q
Plate margins
A
All tectonic activities occur along plate margins
Three types of Plate margins are:
1. Constructive margin or Divergent plate margins or Accreting plate boundaries
- Destructive plate margins or Convergent plates or Consuming plate boundaries
- Conservative plate margins or Transform Plate movements
23
Q
Example of divergence on continent
A
East africa rift valley
24
Q
Example of divergence in ocean
A
Atlantic ocean floor formed as the continent that included South America and Africa broke up and moved apart 2-5cm per year over millions of year
25
Constructive margin or Divergent plate margins
Constructive plate margins represent zones of divergence where there is continuous upwelling of lava. The lava spreads on the adjacent ocean floors thus creating new ocean floors
Eg mid oceanic ridges
26
Destructive plate margins or convergent plates
Movement if two plates towards each other, their collision, overriding of one plate by the edge of other plate and subduction and melting of overridden plate margin into the mantle.
The process in which one plate is carried beneath another is called subduction
27
Types of Collisions due to convergent plates?
1. Ocean-ocean collision
2. Ocean-continent collision
3. Continent-Continent collision
28
Ocean-Ocean collision
Where oceanic crust lies on either side of a convergent plate boundary, the plate with the denser oceanic crust will subduct below the other plate. The heat and pressure of the mantle melt this sediment, and because it is less dense than the mantle rock, it begins to rise forming island arc -a chain of volcanoes paralleling the subduction trench on the -on the overriding plate
Eg Aleutian, Kuriles, Marianas are jsland arcs
It also forms deep ocean trenches such as Peru-chile trench, Japanese trench
As the subducting plate grinds downward, enormous friction is produced which explains the occurrence of major earthquakes
29
Ocean-Continent Collision
Where oceanic crust collides with continental crust, the oceanic crust which is denser is subducted beneath the less dense continental crust.
Eg- Nazca plate subducts beneath the South American plate
Juan de Fuca beneath North American platr
Pacific plate under Eurasian plate in Japan
This leads to formation of volcanic peaks like Mt. kotopaxi, Mt. Chimborazo of Andes
Rocks can also be squeezed and contorted between colliding plates, becoming uplifted and greatly deformed or metamorphosed. Eg Andes and Rockies
30
Continent-Continent collision
Continental crust converging with continental crust is termed continental collision, and causes two continents or major landmasses to fuse or join together, creating a new larger landmass.
31
Transform plate movements
Lithospheric plates slide past each other in opposite directions without diverging or converging
The two plates are in contact along a vertical fracture called a transform fault
Such a boundary exist along the San Andreas Fault Zone in California
32
Forces responsible for plate movement
Rising thermal convective currents originating in mantle
They are generated due to radiogenic heat released due to radioactive decay.
Where These currents ascend mid oceanic ridges are formed and where these descend lithospheric plate subducts
33
What are celestial bodies
The objects seen during the night that belong yo the sky are called as celestial bodies.
They are also called as Heavenly bodies.
Earth is also celestial body
34
Direction of revolution of planets
Counter-clockwise in elliptical orbits
35
Direction of rotation of Venus and Uranus
Clockwise
| All other planets rotate in the same direction as they revolve
36
Define Latitude
Latitude is a measure of the angular distance of a given point from the equator. It is measured in degrees from the equator towards either pole. One degree is divided into sixty equal parts known as minutes. A minute is further divided into sixty equal parts known as seconds
37
Important Parallels of Earth?
```
Equator- 0°
Tropic of cancer- 23.5°N
Tropic of Capricon- 23.5°S
Arctic circle- 66.5°N
Antarctic Circle- 65.5°S
```
38
Torrid Zone
The mid-day sun is exactly overhead atleast once a year on all latitudes in between tropic of cancer and tropic of capricon. This area therefore receives maximum heat an is called torrid zone
39
Temperate zones?
Areas between tropic of cancer and Arctic circle, and also Areas between tropic of capricon and Antarctic circle because they have moderate temperatures due to inclined rays of sun throughout the year
40
Frigid Zones?
Areas between arctic circle and North pole; and also areas between Antarctic circle and South pole as the sun doesnt rise above horizon
41
Standard meridian of India?
82.5°E through Mirzapur
42
Inclination of the Earth's axis?
23.5° from the perpendicular to the orbital plane i.e. 66.5° from orbital plane
43
African continent is separated from Europe and Asia by?
Mediterranean sea and Red sea respectively
44
Africa almost touches Eurasia at what 3 locations?
1. At Straits of Gibralter in North west.
2. At suez canal in north.
3. At straits of Bab-el-Mandeb in the east.
45
Location of plateaus in Africa
Almost whole of Africa appears to be one huge plateau though it contains several plateaus. The higher plateaus are in the South and the East. Few volcanic peaks rise above the plateau in the eastern region near equator.
46
Highest peak of Africa
Mt. kilimanjaro
47
Great Rift Valley?
A rift valley is a long and deep valley formed due to cracks or rifts in the land. It is bounded by wall like steep slopes on both sides.
In Africa there is long chain of rift valleys running from the south of lake Malawi northward to the Red Sea and then through the Gulf of Suez and the Gulf of Aqfuaba to the Dead Sea. Hence known as Great Rift Valley
48
Largest lake in Africa
Lake Victoria.
| It is also the source of river Nile which is the longest river in the world
49
River Nile?
Longest river in the world. It rises in the rainy equatorial region and flows northward. After a long joirney through the Sahara desert it reaches the Mediterranean sea.
50
Important rivers of Africa
Nile, Zaire, Niger, Zambezi, Orange
51
Victoria Falls?
It is on River Zambezi and is higher and wider than even the famous Niagra falls of North America
52
Deserts of Africa?
Sahara desert in the north is the largest desert of world.
Kalahari desert in Southern Africa is another great desert.
53
Equatorial type of climate of Africa
The belt lying along the equator on both sides has a hot, wet climate throughout the year. It rains almost daily and there is only one season, namely hot-wet summer. This is known as equatorial type of climate and has thick forests called TROPICAL RAIN-FORESTS. It had a varied wildlife.
54
Sudan type of climate?
To the north and south of the rain forests, there are regions of warm summers and mild winters. In these regions most of the rain occurs in summer. There is a distinct dry period. The vegetation is mostly grassy. The regions covered with tall and coarse grasses is known as Savanna. It is the homeland of variety of grass-eating animals and wild beasts that live by killing them.
55
Desert type of climate of Africa?
Beyond the savannas in both northern and southern parts lies extensive deserts: sahara in the north and kalahari in the south.
Temperature is very high and there is almost no rainfall. The climate is hot and dry. Vegetation is either wholly absent or includes only scrub and bushes.
56
Meditteranean type of climate?
The northern and southern coasts of Africa have mild and rainy winters and warm and dry summers known as mediterranean type of climate.
57
Soil of Africa?
In Africa, only 10% of the soil is suitable for crops. It includes volcanic soil of East Africa, alluvial soil of Nile valley, and certain soils of the Savanna lands.
58
Dams in Africa?
The Kariba dam on the Zambezi is the largest producer of water power in Africa. The Aswan dam on the Nile in Egypt is another very big dam.
59
Minerals in Africa?
It leads in production if diamond, gold, and platinum.
More than 95% of the world's diamond, half of world's gold comes from Africa.
South africa is the major producer of gold and platinum.
Africa also has large reserves of cobalt, chromium, copper, tin, bauxite, and uranium. But there is not much iron ore and coal in the continent.
South Africa leads world in production of chromium. Congo and South Africa are main producers of copper, bauxite, and uranium.
Petroleum is found in Nigeria, Libya and Angola
60
Forest produce of Africa?
Thick forests of central Africa give timber. They have many valuable trees like mahogany, ebony and kapok.
Africa exports rubber in large quantities
Coconut palm, date palm, and oil palm are found in Africa. Coconut palms are found in the tropical islands and along the equatorial coasts such as Tanzania. They yield Copra from which coconut oil is obtained. Oil palm, from which palm oil is obtained is common in west Africa. Nigeria exports a good deal of this oil. Date palms grows in the oases in the drier regions. Egypt exports a large amount of dates.
Cacao and kola are trees which provide beverages. Cocoa is obtained from cacao which grows well in equatorial lowlands. Ghana and Nigeria export cocoa.
Kola trees yield nuts which are used in preparing cold drinks and chewing gums.
61
Wealthiest and most progressive country of Africa?
Nigeria
62
Land of Nigeria?
Nigeria is a country of lowlands and plateaus. The coastal area in the south is lowland covered with rain forests. The surface of the land is undulating. Further north, lies the Plateau of Jos where woodlands give place to grasslands. The extreme north of the country merges with Sahara desert
63
Rivers Of Nigeria?
Niger is the most important river which drains the greater part of Nigeria before it falls into Gulf of Guinea. Rivers of north-eastern part of the country flows into Lake chad, thus forming an inland drainage system.
64
Climate of Nigeria?
Coastal Nigeria has equatorial type of climate and has rainfall throughout the year. In the interior there is marked dry season in summer. Hot and dust laden winds blow from the north-east during this season known as Harmattan
65
Mountains lying in north-western and south-eastern part of Africa?
Atlas and Drakensberg respectively
66
Minerals of Nigeria?
There are large reserves of tin and columbite. Nigeria also possesses iron, lead, zinc, manganese, and limestone. It is the only coal producing country of western Africa and one of the largest mineral oil producing countries.
67
Which is the important mountain range of South Africa?
Drakensberg
68
What is veld?
The plateau region covered with grasses in South Africa are called veld
69
Why does south Africa enjoy moderate climate?
It is surrounded on three sides by oceans. The great height of the plateaus is another reason for cool climate. It is further cooled by cold ocean currents along the west coast.
70
Rivers of South Africa?
The Orange and the Vaal rivers flow from the Drakensberg mountains westwards to the Atlantic ocean. The Limpopo river flows along the northern boundary of the country for some distance.
71
Which sheep of South Africa are famous for fine wool?
Merino sheep.
| As an exporter of wool, south africa is next only to Australia.
72
Minerals of South Africa?
It is leading producer of Gold and Diamond. Gold mines are near Johannesburg. Diamond mining centre is Kimberley.
Platinum, manganese, uranium, copper, iron, asbestos, and coal are the other important minerals of the country.
73
Khamsin?
In Egypt, the hot dry and sand-laden winds blow from the south during early summer i.e. April and May. These are known as Khamsin
74
Most important cash crop of egypt?
Cotton.
| It is famous for its quality
75
Regions comprising Latin America?
South America, Central America, Mexico, and West Indies
76
Largest country of South America?
Brazil
77
Land locked countries of South America?
Paraguay and Bolivia
78
Physical division of South America
1. Western coastal strip.
2. Western mountains.
3. Eastern Highlands.
4. Central Plains.
79
Andes mountains?
These are young fold mountains and are second highest to the Himalayas only. They run from Caribbean sea to the southern tip of South America. There are three main ranges in the Andes: two of them on the eastern side are very high. These ranges come closer at a few points and separate again. In between these ranges there are high plateaus. The BOLIVIAN PLATEAU is one of them. Lake TITICACA, one of the largest lake is located in this plateau. The Andes have several lofty peaks. Mount ACONCAGUA is the highest peak of the Andes (7,021m). The Andes have several volcanic peaks. COTOPAXI in Ecuador is the highest active volcano is the world.
80
Highest active volcano?
Cotopaxi in Ecuador
81
Largest lake of South America?
Lake Titicaca
82
Highest peak of Amdes
Mount Aconcagua
83
Important basins of Central Plains of South America?
The Orinoco, the Amazon, and the Plata
84
Largest river in the world
The Amazon river as it discharges the greatest amount if water. It rises in the Andes and after flowing through the entire width of Brazil falls into the Atlantic Ocean.
85
Composition of Eastern Highlands of South America?
The Guyana Highlands and the Brazilian Highlands
86
Highest waterfall of world
The Angel Falls, located in the south-eastern part of Venezuela.
87
Climate of Amazon basin
Amazon basin lies close to the equator, therefore has an equatorial type of climate. It is hot and wet throughout the year and the region is covered with equatorial rain forests locally known as the SELVAS.
88
Describe Lanos?
On either side of the Amazon forests lies the belt which has savanna type of climate i.e. The region of grasslands. In the north. In the orinoco river basin they are locally known as Llanos. In the south, in central brazil, they are known as Campos. In this region, there is a distinct dry period and the rain occurs mainly in summer.
89
Climate of Northern Argentina and Western Paraguay?
It is dry during winter and wet during summer. Rains are heavy. This region is covered with thick forests and grasslands and is locally known as GRAN CHACO
90
Climate of parts of Peru and Northern Chile?
It has a typical hot, desert type of climate. This region is known as the Atacama Desert
91
Climate of Central chile?
It has mediterranean type of climate i.e. Rainy winters and warm and dry summers. Its vegetation consists of evergreen forests with trees having thick and shining leaves, which are able to resist summer droughts. Oak, walnut, chestnut and fig are common trees found in this region.
92
Climate of Southern chile?
It has oceanic or marine type of climate. Rainfall occurs here all the year round. As the region lies in temperate zone, the climate is cool. It is a region of temperate, mixed forests where beech and pine are the valuable trees.
93
Describe pampas?
South of the tropical grasslands of southern Brazil lies the region of temperate grasslands. This region has warm climate with rain all through the year, although it rains more in summer than in winter. These grasslands in central Argentina are known as the Pampas
94
Climate of eastern side of Andes?
There lies the desert PATAGONIA. Its climate is dry because it lies in the Rain shadow area of the western mountains.
95
Important tree of Eastern Highlands of South America?
Yerba- its leaves are brewed like tea
96
Important tree of Gran Chaco?
Quebracho- meaning axebreaker. It is an important hardwood tree. It yields tannic acid used for tanning leather.
97
Describe montana?
Forests along eastern slopes of Andes are known as montana. They yield valuable softwoods
98
Yield from Amazon Forests?
1. Hardwoods such as mahogany
2. Lightest wood in the world- Balsa.
3. The Carnauba palm trees from Brazil yield wax used for furniture polish, shoe polish, and candles
4. cinchona bark used for medicines and quinine
5. Chicle used for chewing gum
6. Rubber
99
Minerals in Venezuela and Trinidad and Tobago?
Mineral oils
100
Largest iron ore deposits of the world?
Brazil
101
Minerals from chile?
Copper, nitrates
102
Bolivia is the world's fourth largest producer of?
Tin
103
Guano islands, on the coast of Peru are famous for?
Natural manure formed by droppings of seabirds
104
Fazenda?
A very large coffee estate or plantation in Brazil
105
Forest produce from Brazil?
Timber, Balsa (used for making lifeboats and a substitute for cork), parana pine (used for building purpose), cinchona, carnauba palm trees, rubber
106
Crops from Brazil?
Maize, rice, beans, cassava, potatoes, coffee, cotton, sugarcane, cocoa, and tobacco.
Brazil is largest producer and exporter of coffee in the world.
107
Minerals of Brazil?
The richest mining areas are in the state of Minas Gerais.
Brazil is rich in high quality iron ore and mica. It also produces manganese and quartz crystals.
Brazil lacks good quality coal but it is rich in water resources
108
Gauchos
People of mixed race of Europeans and American Indians who look after the cattle in a long pastoral farm
109
Main exports of Argentina?
Beef, wool, wheat, maize, and linseed
110
Major imports of Argentina?
Iron and steel, machinery and vehicles, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, fuel and lubricating oil.
111
Major industries of Argentina?
Meat packing, food processing, flour milling, leather tanning, and making of leather goods
112
Southernmost island of Argentina?
Estados de los Island
113
Climate of Argentina?
It is generally temperate. Temperature decreases from North to South and rainfall decreases from east to west
114
Plateau in Argentina?
Patagonia
115
Australasia?
Australia + New Zealand + other nearby islands
116
Which are the three physical divisions of Australia?
1. Western Plateaus
2. Central Lowlands
3. Eastern Highlands
117
Which parts of Australia get plentiful rains?
Eastern, North-Eastern, and South-Western
118
Name two important rivers of Australia?
The Murray and The Darling
119
Which part of Australia has inland drainage?
Central lowlands
120
Why are east flowing rivers of Australia short and swift?
The Eastern highlands drop steeply in the east towards Pacific Ocean
121
Artesian well?
A well in which water rises automatically and continuously to the ground surface, either through a natural or a man-made hole
122
Extent of Central lowlands of Australia?
From Gulf of Carpentaria in the north across the continent to the southern shores of Australia.
123
Name inland drainage of Australia?
Lake Eyre
124
Extent of Eastern Highlands of Australia?
From Cape York Peninsula in the north to Tasmania in the south. They form a long belt of elevated plateaus and are known as Great Dividing Range. They are broad and low in the north whereas in the south they are narrow and high
125
Highest peak in Australia?
Mount Kosciusko
126
Ayers rock?
Monolith in Australia. It changes colour with sun rays and is considered sacred. Also known as Ulluru
127
Climate of Australia?
Most of the Australia is dry. The eastern, north eastern and south western region receives heavy rainfall. Central and Western Australia have scanty or no rain at all.
Southern coast of Australia enjoys mediterranean type of climate. The island of Tasmania receives plenty rainfall throughout the year. The northern part of Australia receives rain from monsoon winds and is cool and dry in winter, and warm and wet in summer.
128
Most common tree of Australia?
Eucalyptus- they are evergreen trees and commonly known as gum tree. Some of the varieties such as JARRAH and KARRI are valuable for their timber. Some eucalyptus tree yield oil. Found in forests of Tasmania, south-east and south-west Australia
129
Types of grasslands of Australia?
1. Tropical grasslands- found in north, known as SAVANNAS
| 2. Temperate grasslands- Found in Murray-Darling basin, known as DOWNS
130
A tall tree of Australia bearing golden flowers in summer?
Wattle
131
An animal bird that has four legs but lays eggs
Platypus
132
Unique feature of Australia?
Air ambulance system. There are ambulance bases in each state from where doctors are flown to settlements where they are urgently required
133
Important exports of Australia?
Wool, wheat, dairy products, beef, and mutton, machinery and minerals
134
Major imports of Australia?
Machinery, Transport equipments, Textile goods, Petroleum, and Petroleum products
135
Largest producer of Bauxite in the world?
Australia, though it is fifth in exports
136
Jackaroos?
Labours who help in sheep rearing in Australia are called jackaroos
137
India's permanent base camp in Antarctica?
Maithri.. Earlier it was Dakshin Gangotri which is now abandoned
138
What divides the Antarctica into two equal halves?
Queen Maud Range
139
Only live volcano of Antarctica?
Mount Erebus
140
Katabatic winds?
It is local wind which moves down from mountain slopes. The temperature and pressure of air increases when it blows down a mountain slope and the air is very dry.
E.g. Mistral winds- it blows over France from the Alps towards the Mediterranean sea
141
Four major physical divisions of North America?
1. Western Cordilleras
2. The Canadian Shield
3. The Appalachian Mountains or Eastern Highlands
4. The Central plains
142
Lakes of Canada?
The Great Bear, Winnipeg, and The Great Lakes
143
Which Lakes are part of The Great Lake?
Lake Superior, Lake Michigan, Lake Huron, Lake Eerie, and Lake Ontario
144
Where is Niagara falls located?
Between Lake Eerie and Lake Ontario
145
Why is St. Lawrence river important?
It is the busiest inland waterway in North America
146
Mineral resources found in Canadian Shield?
Gold, silver, Nickel, Iron, Copper, Platinum, Radium, Cobalt, and Uranium
147
River flowing from Appalachian mountains?
The Hudson river flows through the Appalachian mountains. It is joined to the Great Lakes by the Eerie canal.
Coal, copper, and Lead are found here
148
Highest peak of Western Cordilleras?
Mount Mckinley
149
Ranges of Western Cordilleras?
The Rocky Mountains, The Coastal Ranges, Sierra Nevada
150
What is The Great Basin?
The ranges of Western Cordilleras enclose a few inter-montane plateaus. The Great Basin is the largest intermontane plateau of this continent.
151
Plateaus of Western Cordilleras?
The Great Basin, Colorado plateau
152
What are canyons? Name one canyon of North America.
A very deep gorge with wall-like sides are known as canyons. The Grand Canyon of Colorado is the largest of its kind
153
What are Geysers? Name one Geyser in North America
Heat from the interior of the Earth penetrates through the cracks to boil the ground water and sends it up to the surface in hot springs called Geysers. Old Faithful geyser located in Yellow stone National park is famous one.
154
Resources of Western Cordilleras?
Fir, spruce, and Cedar.
| Coal, lead, zinc, gold and copper
155
Factors influencing climate of North America?
1. Ocean currents
2. Western cordilleras, and Appalachian mountains
3. Permanent winds
4. Long extent between tropical and frigid zone
156
Climatic variation of North America?
1. Western coast and south-eastern coast + west indies have high rainfall due to the influence of westerlies.
2. North-west Mexico and south-west USA remains dry and have Arizona desert
3. In the extreme north of continent, the climate is very cold and severe. The winters are long and snow covers the ground for 8 to 9 months. This is an area of Permafrost
4. Central plains are open to the influence of both the cold winds from the north and the warm winds from south.
5. West coast of California have Mediterranean type of climate
157
Tundras in North America?
Found in extreme north of continent in the regions of Permafrost.
Only mosses, lichens, grasses grow
158
Taiga?
To the south of Tundra region in North America, a wide belt of coniferous forests lies known as Taiga. It stretches from atlantic to pacific across Canada. Also found on the higher slopes of the Western Cordilleras in the US
159
Prairies?
Grasslands found in interior plains of North America are known as Prairies. These are known for tall and nutritious grasses
160
Lake superior is leading producer of which mineral?
High-grade iron ore
161
Largest gold mine in the world
Ontario
162
Largest soft coal field in the world?
Appalachian Highlands. They produce large amount of anthracite and high-grade bituminous coal.
163
The USA is the second largest producer of?
Natural gas
164
Largest deposits of lead and zinc in the world are found in?
British Columbia
165
Mexico is leading world producer of?
Silver
166
Source of Hydroelectricity in North America?
Niagara falls, st. Lawrence river, Appalachian region and the valleys of Tennessee, colorado and Columbia rivers
167
Fishing banks?
The shallow seas around the north-eastern coast of North America abounding in fish are known as Fishing Banks.
The Grand Bank near the coast of Newfoundland is famous for fishing.
168
Europe is surrounded by which water bodies?
Arctic ocean in the North, atlantic ocean in the west and mediterranean sea in the south
169
Europe is separated from Asia via?
Ural mountains, caucasus mountains, and caspian sea
170
Seas bordering Europe?
White sea, Norwegian sea, baltic sea, north sea, mediterranean sea, Ligurian sea, Tyrrhenian sea, Adriatic sea, Ionian sea, Aegean sea, black sea, caspian sea
171
Independent states post-USSR disintegration
Armenia Azerbaijan Belarus Estonia Georgia Kazakhstan Kyrgyzstan Latvia Lithuania Moldova Russia Tajikistan Turkmenistan Ukraine Uzbekistan
172
Scandinavian countries?
Iceland, Denmark, Sweden, Finland, Norway
173
Baltic states
Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania
174
Low countries?
Belgium, Luxembourg, Netherlands
175
Balkan states
Serbia, Montenegro, slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia, Herzegovina, Macedonia, Bulgaria, Greece, Romania and Albania
176
Vatican city?
It is a small and independent state in a part of rome with a population of few hundred people. It is the seat of the Pope and the headquarters of the Roman Catholic Church.
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British isles?
Ireland (comprising Northern Ireland and Irish republic) and Great Britain (Scotland, Wales, and England) as well as number of small islands
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Physical division of Europe?
1. North western Highlands
2. North European Plains
3. The Central Uplands
4. The Alpine system
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North western highlands of Europe?
It extends from Finland through Sweden, Norway and the British isles to Iceland. The northern part is called as FENNO-SCANDIAN SHIELD. These shield rocks are oldest exposed rocks in Europe. The area is rich in iron and copper but lacks fossil fuels. The souls are coarse and less fertile. The western edge of the shield is buckled into mountains. Along the Norwegian Coast, they reach into the Atlantic Ocean creating FIORDS. These are deep valleys cut by glaciers and now filled with sea water.
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North European Plain
It extends from the Urals in the east to the Atlantic coast in the west. Its westward extension may be seen in the British Isles. This plain is broadest in the eastern part and narrows down towards west. It is bounded in the north by the White Sea and the North-western Highlands and in the south by Central Uplands. Its landscape is low, flat and gently rolling. It has long been an important farming area. This plain is drained by Seine, Rhine, Volga, Don, Danube, Dniper. This plain has high grade fossil fuels such as coal, oil and natural gas. These deposits extend into the North Sea where oil exploration and production takes place on large scale
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Central uplands?
A variety of mountains, hills and plateaus make up the Central Uplands like the Meseta in Spain and Portugal, the Massif Central and Jura mountains in France, the Black Forest in Germany and several low ranges in the Czech and Slovak republics. Two major rivers which flow through this region have broad valleys. While the Rhine flows northwards, the Rhone flows southwards. A canal connects the two rivers making it possible to cross the continent through waterways.
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The Alpine System?
In the south, there is a chain of high mountains which stretches from the Atlantic ocean in the west to the Caspian sea in the east from where it further extends into Asia. These mountains have high peaks, steep slopes and deep valleys.
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Important mountains of Alpine system
Alps, pyrenees, carpathian and caucasus
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Highest peak of Alps?
Mont Blanc
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Highest peak of europe
Mount Elbrus in the Caucasus
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Climate of Western Europe?
Considering its latitude, Europe's climate is described as mild due to the influence of Westerlies, North Atlantic Drift, relief, and proximity to the seas.
Europe lies in the region of westerlies and wind blows from south-west. Since there is no mountain system from north to south, there is no obstruction for these winds. As a result, these winds blow deeper into the land and modify the temperature. The warm waters of North Atlantic Drift keep the seas along western Europe ice-free. The Westerlies blowing over these currents carry warmth further inland. On their way, they pick up moisture and cause rainfall which is well distributed all through the year. The moderating influence of westerlies and nearness to the seas and oceans keep summers warm and winters cool in western Europe.
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Climate of Central and Eastern Europe?
The moderating influence of the ocean is reduced eastward. As a result, in central and eastern Europe, summers are hot and winters are very cold and rainfall is also less. Such climatic variation is called Continental climate
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Climate of Southern Europe?
Southern Europe comes under the influence of offshore winds during summer. Hence, rainfall is confined to winter alone. Summers are long hot and dry. Winters are warm and wet. This type of climate is called the Mediterranean type of climate.
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Climate of Northern Europe?
The area north of Arctic Circle has an extremely cold climate. Precipitation is very scanty and mostly in the form of snow. Summers are short with long and warm days. The sun is visible even at midnight for a brief period. The land is covered with snow for the major part of the year. It is called Tundra climate
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Vegetation of Mediterranean region?
In mediterranean region, trees are required to stand a long summer drought. Hence they are small in size but have deep roots. Their leaves are small, thick and glossy. Some trees have thick and pulpy bark. Olive, fig, grapes and oranges are most common fruits of this region.
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Vegetation of Tundra region?
Lichens, moss and a few stunted trees
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Vegetation of taiga region
It is a region of coniferous forests. Trees are tall and straight with a cone-like shape. Pine, spruce and fir are common trees. They provide valuable softwood
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Vegetation of mixed forests?
It has some coniferous trees and mostly broad-leaved deciduous trees which shed their leaves in winter. Oak, ash and poplar are common trees
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Steppes?
In south-east part of Europe, there is extensive grassland called the steppes. These grasses are shorter compared to prairies. This region extends from the Danube valley in Romania to Ukraine, where grasses are taller.
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Resources of Scandinavian countries?
Marine, Forest and Water power
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Resources of Netherlands
Netherlands has reclaimed land from the sea by making big embankments along the sea front called DYKES. The water from the enclosed land called POLDERS is pumped out into the sea with the help of electric pumps. Land is then left to dry for some time before it is brought under cultivation
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Resources of Great Britain, Belgium, Germany and Russia?
Mineral resource which helped them become Industrial nations
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Type of farming done in Europe?
Mixed farming
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Most important crop of Europe?
Wheat. Grown in areas of fertile soil with cool but relatively long summers with abundant sunshine. Grown in Ukraine, Paris basin, Low countries, North European plain, the plains of Hungary and the Po valley in Italy
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What is grown on poorer soils of Europe
Barley, rye, oat
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Important root crops of Europe?
Sugar-beet and potatoes
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Only fibre crop of Europe which is used for making linen?
Flax
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Where are orchards located in Europe?
Sunny side of the hill slopes mostly in the Mediterranean region
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Which flower of Bulgaria and Netherlands is famous and even exported?
Roses of Bulgaria, and Tulips of Netherlands
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Coal is found in which regions of Europe?
Great Britain, and on the mainland of Europe in the region from north-eastern France to Poland. Also found in Spain, Ukraine and Russia
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Petroleum is found in Europe in which countries?
North Sea, Romania, Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaijan and Russia
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Iron ore is found in which countries of Europe?
France, Ukraine, Azerbaijan, Sweden, UK, Germany, Russia and Spain
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Main centres of Iron and Steel industry in Europe?
UK, France, Germany, Ukraine and Russia
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How are water resource used in Europe?
For fishing, for inland waterways, and for generating power
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Important fishing grounds of Europe?
Dogger Bank and the Great Fisher Bank
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Major fishing countries of Europe?
Norway, Sweden, Iceland, Denmark, France, Germany, Netherlands, UK, Spain and Portugal. Norway has very advanced and well equipped vessels which are used for deep-sea fishing.
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Main hydropower producing countries of Europe?
Spain, Italy, France, Switzerland, Norway and Sweden
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Busiest inland waterway of Europe?
Rhine
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Peninsula in Denmark?
Jutland peninsula
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Which parts of Europe have large forest cover?
Scandinavian, Alpine and Taiga region Of Russia
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Uk is separated from mainland of Europe by?
English Channel
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Relief of UK?
The UK is a country of low relief marked by undulating plains, low hills and dissected plateaus. Areas of the sea penetrate deep into these islands and as a result, country has a very long indented coastline. The seas surrounding the islands are shallow.
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Climate of UK?
Climate is influenced by oceans. It is temperate and equable with very little difference between the summer and winter temperatures. The Westerlies make winters warm and summers cool. Rainfall is well distributed throughout the year. However, it is slightly more in winter than in summer. Unlike France, the UK has less sunshine averaging 2 hours per day. Mostly it is cloudy and foggy coz it is under the influence of western depression.
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Industries of UK?
Beef and dairy industries, wool industry, iron and steel industry
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2nd largest country of Europe?
France
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France is surrounded by 3 seas?
English channel, atlantic ocean, and mediterranean sea
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Strategic location of France?
France has long coastline and also access to main trade routes from the Atlantic Ocean and trade to the East through the Mediterranean. At the same time, it adjoins some of the populous and prosperous countries of Europe- Belgium, Germany, Switzerland, and Italy.
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What relief structure separates France from Spain, Italy, Switzerland and Germany?
pyrenees mountains, Alps, Jura, and Vosges respectively
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Relief feature of France?
West, North-west and the North belongs to great European plain. The central plateau or the massif forms a well-marked unit. It slopes gently towards the west and the north-west. Rivers in this part, therefore, flow in these directions.
The Alps lie in the southern part of France and Pyrenees are located on souther Border.
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Climate of France?
The western and north-western parts of the country enjoy maritime climate. The north-eastern and eastern parts of France and the central plateau have continental type of climate. The climate is slightly modified in the sheltered valleys of the central plateau where autumns are long and sunny. Southern France has typical Mediterranean climate
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Resources of France?
Coal is found in northern part of country as an extension of Belgian coal field. The quality of coal is not very good. Iron ore is the only mineral which is found in large quantities (Lorraine field). The iron and steel industry has developed in northern part and Lorraine field. The Pyrenees and the plateau region provide abundant pollution-free water power at a low cost. Silk industry is concentrated in Rhone valley, cotton industry is centred in the northern coalfield and the Vosges. The woollen industry is located mostly in the north.
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Specialities of France?
Cheese, butter and milk. Vineyards, French wine, champagne
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Physical features of Germany?
1. North German Plains
| 2. Southern Highlands and Mountains
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Describe Southern Highlands and Mountains of Germany?
It comprise varied landforms- plateaus, hills, valleys, and mountains. The general slope of these highlands is northwards from the Alps. Low and worn down uplands are found in the central part. The region extends from the Black Forest in the west to the Bohemian Forest in the east. To its south lies the rugged highlands of the Bavarian Alps. To the west of this upland is the famous Rhine valley.
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Famous rivers of Germany?
The Rhine, the Weser, the Elbe, the Oder, and the Danube
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Climate Of Germany?
It has temperate climate. While the coastal area enjoys maritime climate, the south-eastern part have continental climate. The amount of rainfall decreases as we go eastwards
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Resources of Germany?
Forests provide a base for manufacturing wood pulp, paper and newsprint. Germany is rich in coal (especially lignite), iron, lead, copper and potash salt. The coal is of excellent coking quality.
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Heart of industrial Europe?
Ruhr
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Germany is one of the largest producers of which crops?
Rye, potatoes, and sugar-beet.
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Canal connecting North sea and Baltic sea?
The Kiel Canal
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2nd largest country of Europe?
France
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France is surrounded by 3 seas?
English channel, atlantic ocean, and mediterranean sea
238
Strategic location of France?
France has long coastline and also access to main trade routes from the Atlantic Ocean and trade to the East through the Mediterranean. At the same time, it adjoins some of the populous and prosperous countries of Europe- Belgium, Germany, Switzerland, and Italy.
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What relief structure separates France from Spain, Italy, Switzerland and Germany?
pyrenees mountains, Alps, Jura, and Vosges respectively
240
Relief feature of France?
West, North-west and the North belongs to great European plain. The central plateau or the massif forms a well-marked unit. It slopes gently towards the west and the north-west. Rivers in this part, therefore, flow in these directions.
The Alps lie in the southern part of France and Pyrenees are located on souther Border.
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Climate of France?
The western and north-western parts of the country enjoy maritime climate. The north-eastern and eastern parts of France and the central plateau have continental type of climate. The climate is slightly modified in the sheltered valleys of the central plateau where autumns are long and sunny. Southern France has typical Mediterranean climate
242
Resources of France?
Coal is found in northern part of country as an extension of Belgian coal field. The quality of coal is not very good. Iron ore is the only mineral which is found in large quantities (Lorraine field). The iron and steel industry has developed in northern part and Lorraine field. The Pyrenees and the plateau region provide abundant pollution-free water power at a low cost. Silk industry is concentrated in Rhone valley, cotton industry is centred in the northern coalfield and the Vosges. The woollen industry is located mostly in the north.
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Specialities of France?
Cheese, butter and milk. Vineyards, French wine, champagne
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Physical features of Germany?
1. North German Plains
| 2. Southern Highlands and Mountains
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Describe Southern Highlands and Mountains of Germany?
It comprise varied landforms- plateaus, hills, valleys, and mountains. The general slope of these highlands is northwards from the Alps. Low and worn down uplands are found in the central part. The region extends from the Black Forest in the west to the Bohemian Forest in the east. To its south lies the rugged highlands of the Bavarian Alps. To the west of this upland is the famous Rhine valley.
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Famous rivers of Germany?
The Rhine, the Weser, the Elbe, the Oder, and the Danube
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Climate Of Germany?
It has temperate climate. While the coastal area enjoys maritime climate, the south-eastern part have continental climate. The amount of rainfall decreases as we go eastwards
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Resources of Germany?
Forests provide a base for manufacturing wood pulp, paper and newsprint. Germany is rich in coal (especially lignite), iron, lead, copper and potash salt. The coal is of excellent coking quality.
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Heart of industrial Europe?
Ruhr
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Germany is one of the largest producers of which crops?
Rye, potatoes, and sugar-beet.
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Canal connecting North sea and Baltic sea?
The Kiel Canal
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Number of time zones of Russia?
11
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Physical features of Russia?
1. The plains of European Russia
2. West Siberian plains
3. Central Siberian plateaus
4. Mountains and Uplands
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Describe plains of European Russia?
Most extensive plains in the world. They are part of Central European plains. They stretch from Arctic Ocean in the north to Black sea and Caspian Sea in the south. The fertile plains are drained by many rivers, like Volga which falls into Caspian sea
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Describe West Siberian plains?
Situated between Urals on the west and the river Yenisey on the east. These are lowlands sloping gently towards the Arctic Ocean in the north.
Rivers Irtysh, Ob, and Yenisey flow through these plains and fall into the Arctic Ocean. Large parts of these plains are marshy lands.
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Describe Central Siberian Plateau?
Lying between river Yenisey in the west and river Lena in the east. It is deeply eroded with rivers and much of it is covered with forests.
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Describe Mountains and Uplands of Russia?
There is a mountain rim all along Russia's southern and eastern borders. While Urals are old, these mountains are young fold mountains. To the eat of the river Lena is the region of mountain ranges of eastern Siberia which are high and rugged.
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The peninsula situated in Siberian Highlands?
Kamchatka Peninsula
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The mountain ranges of Mountains and Uplands region of Russia?
Caucasus mountains- situated between black sea and caspian sea. And Yablonovy, Stanovoy, and Verkhoyansk
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Climate of Russia?
Russia has long cold winter. The intensity of winter decreases from east to west but no part is free from snow cover during winter. The interior country has the continental type of climate with a high annual range of temperature. The northern lowlands are exposed to the cold polar winds coming from the north. The amount of precipitation decreases from west to east. The heaviest rainfall occurs in the Caucasus mountains mostly in the winters.
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Vegetation of Russia?
The vegetation belts lie one after the other in a more or less regular sequence from the north to the south. The northernmost belt has the tundra type of vegetation. It is followed by the taiga, the mixed deciduous, the steppes and the mountain vegetation
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The only ice-free port along the Arctic Ocean route to Vladivostok?
Murmansk
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Which city is a port of five seas? And which 5 seas?
Moscow. Five seas are Black sea, Baltic Sea, Caspian Sea, Lake Ladoga and Arctic Ocean through the White Sea.
264
Longest railway of World?
Trans-Siberian Railway
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Important industries of Russia?
Iron and steel industry. Russia is one of the largest producer of iron and steel in the world. Other industries are Textile, electrical and electronic goods, and food-processing
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Minerals of Russia?
Iron ore is found in Urals, the Kerch peninsula and Siberia. It has huge reserves of iron, manganese, and bauxite. It is also rich in gold. Other minerals are lead, tin, copper and platinum. Coal is found in Kuznetsk basin, Eastern Siberia, Urals and the sub-Moscow basin. Important oil fields are located in the region between the Urals and the Volga, Azov-Black Sea area, Bashkiria and west Siberia. Natural gas is also found in Russia. It also has large dams producing hydroelectricity.
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Forest produce of Russia?
Timber and softwood. Russia is leading producer of sawn wood.
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Which countries lies in both Asia and Europe?
Russia, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, and Iran
269
Which countries are land-locked in Asia?
Jordan, Armenia, Afghanistan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, Mongolia, Bhutan, Nepal, Laos, and Uzbekistan
270
Physical features of Asia?
1. Northern Low lands
2. Central Mountains
3. Southern Plateaus
4. The Great River Valleys
4. The Island Groups
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Describe Northern Lowlands?
Extending between the Ural Mountains in the west and Lena river in the east, there is a vast lowland in the northern part of the continent. It is called the Siberian Plain. While the western half of this plain is a flat area made of sedimentary rocks, the eastern part is eroded plateau. It is drained by rivers such as Ob, Yenisei, and Lena. They originate from the highlands and mountains of central Asia and flow northwards.
272
Deepest lake of the world?
Lake Baykal located in Siberia
273
Describe the Mountains of Asia?
Pamir plateau is a meeting place of several ranges which form the Pamir Knot. This plateau is also known as the Roof of the World because it is the highest plateau in the world. Chains of mountain ranges extend in all directions. The Hindu Kush extends to the west, the Tien Shan towards the north-east, the Kunlun to the east, and the Karakoram and the Himalayas to the south-east. Some of these ranges enclose plateaus and uplands
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Describe Hindu Kush?
Two group of mountains diverge from Hindu Kush. The northern group forms the Elburz mountains, which skirts the southern shore of Caspian sea and continues westwards. The southern group- the Zagros mountains extends along the Arabian sea and overlooks the Persian gulf. They enclose the plateau of Iran. Moving westwards, the two ranges converge at the Knot of Mount Ararat. The Pontic mountains diverge in the north and the Taurus mountains in the south which enclose the plateau of Anatolia
275
Highest peak of Himalayas?
Mount Everest
276
Highest peak of Karakoram
K2
277
Plateau between Kunlun range in the north and Karakoram and Himalayan range in the south?
Tibetan plateau
278
Plateau between Kunlun in the south and the Tien Shan in the north
Tarim basin
279
Relief between Tien Shan in the west and mountain chains of north-east Siberia?
There is a broken crescent of ancient fold mountain- the Altai, the Yablonoi, and the Stanovoi ranges. In between these ranges there are huge desert basins- the Tarik basin and the vast cold desert of Gobi.
280
Southern Plateaus of Asia?
Plateau of Arabia, Deccan Plateau, and the plateau of Yunnan
281
River valleys Of Asia?
Tigris-Euphrates, the Indus, the Ganga-Brahmaputra, the Irrawaddy, the Mekong, the Sikiang, the Chang jiang, and the Huang He.
282
Explain winters of Asia?
In winter, the interior part of Asia becomes extremely cold. Temperature falls below freezing point due to the great distance from the sea. Hence, the air contracts and becomes very dense and heavy, forming high pressure area over Mongolia. Winds blow outward. Since they blow from land, they are dry. As a result, most parts of Asia do not get rain during winter. But while blowing over the sea, these winds pick up moisture and may cause rainfall in some areas.
283
Explain summer of Asia?
In summer most of the Asia becomes very hot. As a result, the air expands, becomes light and low pressure areas develop over central Asia and the north-western part of South Asia. By this time, high pressure areas are located over oceans and winds start blowing to these low pressure areas. Thus most of the continent receives rainfall in summer from the moisture-laden winds coming from the ocean.
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Vegetation of Asia?
1. The northern coast of Asia is the tundra belt.
2. To the south of tundra is a much broader belt of coniferous forests called the taiga
3. Temperate grasslands, known as steppes, form the next belt south of taiga.
4. Large parts of south-west and central Asia are deserts.
5. South, south-east and east-Asia have monsoon forests.
6. Extreme southern portion of Asia which are closer to the equator have equatorial rain forests.
