Geography N5 Flashcards
(120 cards)
1
Q
explain the process of freeze-thaw
A
Water enters a crack in a rock, it freezes and expands, breaking the rock apart over time
2
Q
explain the process of plucking
A
Ice freezes onto a rock, pulling the pieces away as the glacier moves
3
Q
explain the process of abrasion
A
Rocks embedded in the glacier scrape against the valley floor and sides wearing them down
4
Q
explain how a corrie is formed
A
Snow accumulates in a hollow, compresses to ice and begins to move, plucking steepens the back wall and abrasion deepens the hollow, freeze-thaw adds debris. When the ice melts a tarn may form
5
Q
explain how an arete and pyramidal peak are formed
A
A narrow ridge between two corries is formed when erosion from two corries are back to back - arete. Formed when three or more corries erode a mountain from all sides
6
Q
How a U-shaped valley is formed
A
A glacier widens, deepens and straightens a V-shaped river valley through plucking and abrasion
7
Q
How is a truncated spur formed
A
It forms when a glacier moves through a river valley. Instead of winding around interlocking spurs like a river, the glacier erodes the tips of the spurs through plucking and abrasion, cutting them off and creating steep, cliff-like faces. This results in a U-shaped valley with truncated spurs on its sides.
8
Q
How is a hanging valley formed
A
It forms when a smaller glacier erodes its valley less deeply than a larger main glacier. After the glaciers melt, the smaller valley is left high above the main U-shaped valley, often with a waterfall
9
Q
Describe and explain the conflicts which can arise between land uses within the lake district
A
tourism, farming, conservation, and quarrying.
Tourism vs. Farming: Walkers can damage crops or disturb livestock by leaving gates open.Quarrying vs. Tourism: Quarrying scars the landscape, reducing its appeal to tourists.
Tourism vs. Locals: Traffic congestion and second homes increase house prices, making it hard for locals to afford housing.
10
Q
Describe and explain the solutions adopted to deal with the conflicts within the lake district
A
Footpath Repair: Stone pitching and re-routing paths to reduce erosion from walkers.Education: Signs and campaigns encourage responsible behaviour, such as closing gates and taking litter home.Traffic Management: Park-and-ride schemes and improved public transport reduce congestion.Planning Restrictions: Limits on quarrying and second home ownership protect landscapes and support local communities.
11
Q
How is a ribbon lake formed
A
A ribbon lake forms when a glacier erodes softer rock more deeply than surrounding harder rock, creating a hollow. After the glacier melts, the hollow fills with water, forming a long, narrow lake, often in a U-shaped valley.
12
Q
What is a misfit stream
A
A misfit stream is a small river or stream that flows through a large U-shaped glacial valley. It is “misfit” because its size is too small to have created the valley, which was formed by a much larger glacier during glaciation.
13
Q
How is a metamorphic rock formed
A
They are formed when rocks are subjected to high heat, high pressure, hot mineral rich fluids or, more commonly some combinations of these factors
14
Q
How is an igneous rock formed
A
They form when hot, molten rock crystallises and solidifies
15
Q
How is a sedimentary rock formed
A
They are formed from deposits of pre-existing rocks or pieces of once-living organisms that accumulate on Earths surface
16
Q
How is a glacier formed
A
Snow accumulates overtime in upland areas, the weight of layers compress snow into firn, firn compacts further to form glacial ice, when the ice becomes thick enough, it starts to move under gravity
17
Q
What is a glacier
A
A large mass of ice that moves slowly down hill due to gravity, typically found in upland or cold areas
18
Q
Describe deposition in glaciers
A
When glaciers lose energy, they deposit material they are carrying
19
Q
Give 2 environmental impacts of glaciation
A
Creation of landscapes (peaks, ridges, valleys). Creates natural habitats for wildlife
20
Q
Give 2 Economic impacts of glaciation
A
Tourism - uplands (the lake district) attracts millions of tourists, providing jobs and income. Challenges include congestion and footpath erosion
Farming - upland areas are used for sheep grazing due to thin, poor soils
21
Q
Give 2 social impacts of glaciation
A
Settlements are often built in glaciated valleys. Overcrowding and rising house pricing in tourist
22
Q
How is a V-shaped valley formed
A
A V-shaped valley forms through river erosion. The river cuts down into the land over time, deepening and widening the valley, while the sides are shaped by weathering and mass movement. The result is a steep, V-shaped valley.
23
Q
Explain Hydraulic action
A
Waves force water and air into cracks in a rock , the pressure of the trapped air cause the rock to weaken and eventually break
24
Q
Explain Corrasion (abrasion)
A
Rock fragments and sediment carried by the waves are thrown against the coastline, this “sandblasting” effect wears away the cliffs
25
Explain Corrosion (Solution)
weak acids in seawater dissolve soluble rocks like limestone and chalk, this chemicals process contributes to the breakdown of cliffs
26
Explain Attrition
Rock fragments in the water collide with each other , over time, these fragments become smaller and more rounded
27
Explain in detail the process of Longshore drift
Longshore drift is the movement of sediment along the coast, caused by waves hitting the shore at an angle. The swash moves sediment up the beach at the same angle, while the backwash pulls it straight down. This zigzag motion gradually moves material along the coastline, shaping features like spits and sandbars.
28
Explain swash and backwash
Swash is the movement of water up the beach after a wave breaks, carrying sediment in the direction of the wave. Backwash is the water flowing back down the beach, under the influence of gravity, moving sediment perpendicular to the shore. Together, they contribute to processes like longshore drift.
29
How are cliffs formed
Cliffs form through the process of erosion. Waves, wind, and weathering erode softer rock at the base of the coastline, while harder rock remains intact. Over time, this creates steep, vertical rock faces. The process involves abrasion, hydraulic action, and attrition, which wear away the rock, causing the cliff to retreat.
30
How are caves, arches and stacks formed
A large crack is opened by hydraulic action, the crack grows into a cave, the cave becomes larger, the cave breaks through the headland forming a natural arch, the arch is eroded then collapses, this leaves a tall rock stack, the stack is eroded or falls down to form a stump.
31
How are headlands and bays formed
waves erode soft rock more quickly than hard rock, along coastlines where the cliffs are made of different rock types, the softer rocks are eroded back quickly to form bays, the harder rocks are eroded more slowly and are left jutting out to form headlands.
32
How are spits and sand bars formed
They form where the coastline changes direction, longeshore drift transports sand and deposits it in a sheltered area, deposited sand builds up over time until it is over sea level, this deposition continues until the beach extends into the sea to form a spit which can develop a hooked or curved end due to a change in prevailing wind.
33
Describe and explain the conflicts which can arise in the Dorset coasts
Tourism vs. Conservation: Overcrowding, footpath erosion, and litter damage natural habitats.Tourism vs. Locals: Increased traffic and second homes raise house prices, affecting locals.Conservation vs. Quarrying: Quarrying for stone harms landscapes and ecosystems.
34
Describe and explain the solutions which can deal with the conflicts in the Dorset coasts
Footpath Maintenance: Resurfacing and re-routing paths to reduce erosion.Education: Signs and campaigns to encourage responsible tourism, such as litter disposal.Traffic Management: Improved public transport and car parks to reduce congestion.Conservation Policies: Limits on quarrying and protection of areas like the Jurassic Coast to preserve habitats.
35
Explain the process of Attrition
The process where rocks and pebbles carried by waves or a river collide with each other. Over time, this makes them smaller, smoother, and more rounded as their edges are worn away. It’s common in areas with strong wave or river activity.
36
What is coastal erosion
Coastal erosion is the process where waves wear away the land along the coastline. It involves the removal of rock and sediment through processes like hydraulic action, abrasion , attrition, and solution .
37
What are some factors affecting coastal erosion
Wave Strength, Coastal Shape, Tides and Currents, Human Activity, Climate
38
How are beaches formed
They form where the waves have little energy so that they deposit the mud silt, sand and shingle that they have been carrying.
39
how are bars and lagoons formed
Longshore drift moves sand along the coastline, creating a sandbar that connects two headlands, blocking the entrance to a bay or estuary.
The area behind the bar, now cut off from the sea, forms a shallow, sheltered water body known as a lagoon.
40
How is a tombolo formed
A tombolo is formed when a sandbar or deposit of sand connects an island to the mainland. This occurs through the action of longshore drift, which moves sediment along the coastline, gradually building up a narrow strip of land between the island and the shore.
41
Explain sea walls (hard engineering)
They are large, strong structures made of concrete or stone, built parallel to the shore. Sea walls reflect wave energy, preventing the sea from eroding the land behind them. However, they can be expensive to build and maintain, and may cause erosion further along the coast due to wave energy being redirected.
42
Explain groynes (hard engineering)
Groynes are wooden or concrete barriers built at right angles to the shore. They trap sediment moving along the coast due to longshore drift, helping to build up beaches and protect the coastline from erosion. Groynes prevent beach loss but can cause erosion further down the coast by interrupting sediment flow.
43
Explain a riprap (hard engineering)
They are large rocks or boulders are placed along the coastline to absorb and dissipate wave energy. This helps protect the shore from erosion by reducing the impact of waves. Riprap is relatively low-cost, flexible, and can last a long time, but it may be less aesthetically pleasing and requires ongoing maintenance
44
Explain Beach nourishment (soft engineering)
Its a method where sand or shingle is added to eroding beaches to restore them. This helps protect the coastline by enhancing the natural defense against waves and erosion. It is environmentally friendly, but it requires regular maintenance and can be costly over time.
45
Explain Managed retreat (soft engineering)
Its a strategy where human activity is deliberately moved away from vulnerable coastal areas, allowing the sea to flood and erode the land naturally. This approach reduces the need for costly sea defenses and allows ecosystems to adapt, but it may displace people and businesses.
46
Give some real Dorset examples of coastal landforms
Old Harry Rocks:stacks and stumps. Durdle Door: A limestone arch. Chesil Beach: A tombolo. Lulworth Cove
47
Give 2 social impacts of coastal erosion in dorset
Displacement of Communities: Coastal erosion threatens properties near the shore, leading to the potential relocation of residents, especially in areas like Studland Bay. Loss of Tourism: Erosion can damage beaches and coastal attractions, negatively affecting tourism, which is a key economic driver for areas like Weymouth.
48
Give 2 environmental impacts of coastal erosion in dorset
Habitat Loss: Coastal erosion can destroy natural habitats, such as saltmarshes and sand dunes, affecting wildlife in areas like the Chesil Beach. Damage to Ecosystems: Erosion can lead to the loss of coastal ecosystems, such as the destruction of coastal vegetation, which helps protect the shoreline and supports local biodiversity.
49
Give 2 economic impacts of coastal erosion in dorset
Property Damage: Coastal erosion threatens coastal properties, leading to costly repairs or relocations, particularly in areas like Lyme Regis. Impact on Tourism: Erosion can damage popular beaches and landmarks, reducing tourism revenue, which is vital for areas like Weymouth and Durdle Door.
50
Explain in detail the effect of latitude on local weather conditions
Angle of Sunlight: Near the equator (low latitudes), sunlight is direct, creating warmer temperatures. Near the poles (high latitudes), sunlight is more spread out, resulting in cooler temperatures. Day Length: Equator regions have consistent day lengths, leading to stable temperatures, while higher latitudes experience seasonal extremes.Temperature: As latitude increases, temperatures decrease due to less direct sunlight.
51
Explain in detail the effect of Relief on local weather conditions
Orographic Rainfall: When moist air is forced to rise over mountains, it cools and condenses, causing rainfall on the windward side. The leeward side (rain shadow) receives much less rainfall and is drier.
Temperature: Higher altitudes experience cooler temperatures. The higher the land, the lower the temperature, leading to cooler weather conditions.
Wind: Mountains can block or redirect winds, creating microclimates on different sides of the terrain. For example, coastal winds may be blocked by hills, leading to warmer conditions on the sheltered side.
52
Explain in detail the effect of Aspect on local weather conditions
Sunlight: Slopes facing the sun are warmer, receiving more direct sunlight, while those facing away are cooler and get less sun. Temperature: Sun-facing slopes are warmer, affecting growing seasons and local climate, while shaded slopes are cooler. Precipitation: Windward slopes often receive more rain, while leeward slopes are drier.
53
Explain in detail the effect of distance from the sea on local weather conditions
Coastal Areas: The sea has a moderating effect, keeping temperatures milder. In summer, it cools the air, and in winter, it warms it, reducing temperature extremes. Inland Areas: Areas farther from the sea experience more extreme temperature fluctuations, with hotter summers and colder winters due to the land heating up and cooling down faster than the sea. Humidity: Coastal areas tend to have higher humidity because the sea adds moisture to the air, while inland areas are usually drier.
54
Explain in detail the characteristics of Tropical continental
High Temperatures: It experiences very hot temperatures throughout the year, often exceeding 30°C during the day. Low Rainfall: Rainfall is minimal, with some areas receiving less than 250mm per year, leading to dry conditions. Seasonal Variations: There may be a short rainy season, but it is typically brief and irregular. Dry Winds: Winds are usually dry, further contributing to the arid conditions.
55
Explain in detail the characteristics of Tropical maritime
Warm Temperatures: It has consistently warm temperatures, typically between 25°C and 30°C, year-round. High Humidity: The air is moist due to the influence of the surrounding ocean, leading to high humidity levels. Moderate Rainfall: It receives regular rainfall, often distributed evenly throughout the year, leading to lush vegetation. Moderate Winds: Winds from the ocean help moderate temperatures and bring moisture, contributing to the climate's humidity.
56
Explain in detail the characteristics of Artic maritime
Cold Temperatures: It has cool to cold temperatures, especially in winter, with average temperatures often below 5°C. High Humidity: The air is moist due to proximity to the ocean, leading to high humidity levels year-round. Frequent Precipitation: It receives frequent rainfall or snowfall, with the wettest periods often during the warmer months. Strong Winds: Strong, cold winds from the Arctic Ocean contribute to lower temperatures and increase the chill factor.
57
Explain in detail the characteristics of Polar maritime
Cold Temperatures: It has low temperatures, particularly in winter, with average temperatures often below 5°C. High Humidity: The air is moist due to the proximity to cold ocean waters, leading to high humidity. Frequent Precipitation: It experiences frequent, light precipitation, often in the form of rain or snow, especially in coastal areas. Strong Winds: Cold, strong winds from the polar regions contribute to lower temperatures and enhance the chill factor.
58
Explain in detail the characteristics of polar continental
59
Explain in detail the characteristics of weather associated with depressions (low pressure weather systems)
Cloudy Skies: Depressions bring extensive cloud cover due to rising warm air that cools and condenses, forming clouds. Precipitation: They cause frequent and often heavy rainfall, especially along the warm and cold fronts within the system. Wind: Winds are strong and can be gusty, typically blowing in a counterclockwise direction in the Northern Hemisphere (clockwise in the Southern Hemisphere) around the low pressure center. Temperature Fluctuations: Temperatures can vary, with a drop in temperature at the cold front and a slight rise at the warm front.
60
Explain in detail the characteristics of weather associated with anticyclones (high pressure weather systems)
Clear Skies: Air sinks in anticyclones, preventing cloud formation, leading to mostly clear skies. Dry Conditions: Anticyclones typically bring dry weather, with little to no precipitation. Light Winds: Winds are light or calm, as air movement is slow in high pressure systems. Temperature Extremes: During the day, temperatures can rise due to clear skies and direct sunlight, while at night, temperatures can drop quickly, especially in winter, due to a lack of cloud cover.
61
Give me the definition, measuring instrument and unit for Temperature
Temperature is a measure of the warmth or coldness of an environment or object, indicating the amount of heat energy present.Measuring Instrument: Thermometer
Unit: Degrees Celsius (°C) or Kelvin (K)
62
Give me the definition, measuring instrument and unit for precipitation
Precipitation is any form of water (rain, snow, sleet, or hail) that falls from the atmosphere to the Earth's surface.Measuring Instrument: Rain gauge. Unit: Millimeters (mm)
63
Give me the definition, measuring instrument and unit for wind speed
Wind speed is the rate at which air moves across the Earth's surface, typically influenced by atmospheric pressure differences. Measuring Instrument: Anemometer
Unit: Meters per second (m/s) or kilometers per hour (km/h)
64
Give me the definition, measuring instrument and unit for wind direction
Wind direction is the direction from which the wind is blowing, typically described using compass points (e.g., north, south, east, west). Measuring Instrument: Wind vane (or weather vane). Unit: Compass points (°) or cardinal directions (N, S, E, W)
65
Give me the definition, measuring instrument and unit for air pressure
Air pressure is the force exerted by the weight of the air above a given point on the Earth's surface.Measuring Instrument: Barometer. Unit: Hectopascals (hPa) or millibars (mb)
66
Give me the definition, measuring instrument and unit for visibility
Visibility refers to the distance one can clearly see, often reduced in conditions like fog, rain, or snow. Measuring Instrument: Visibility meter or transmissometer. Unit: Meters (m) or kilometers (km)
67
Give me the definition, measuring instrument and unit for cloud cover
Cloud cover refers to the fraction or percentage of the sky covered by clouds at any given time. Measuring Instrument: Oktas (a scale used by meteorologists). Unit: Oktas (0 to 8 scale, where 0 is clear and 8 is fully covered)
68
Give me the definition, measuring instrument and unit for humidity
Humidity is the amount of water vapor present in the air.
Measuring Instrument: Hygrometer or Psychrometer
Unit: Percentage (%)
69
What are the fronts in a depression
Warm Front: Warm air moves into cooler air, bringing gradual rain or drizzle. Cold Front: Cold air pushes into warmer air, causing sudden, intense weather like storms.Occluded Front: A cold front overtakes a warm front, lifting warm air and causing complex weather. Stationary Front: Neither air mass moves, leading to prolonged wet weather.
70
Describe anticyclone weather
Clear skies: Little to no cloud formation. Stable conditions: Light winds or calm air. Dry weather: Little or no precipitation. Cooler nights: Rapid cooling of the ground after sunset, leading to chilly nights.
71
How is weather data collected
Weather Stations: Measure temperature, humidity, air pressure, wind speed, and direction.Satellites: Provide images and data on cloud cover, temperature, and atmospheric conditions.Weather Buoys: Monitor ocean conditions like sea temperature, wave height, and atmospheric pressure. Radar: Tracks precipitation, storms, and other atmospheric phenomena.Weather Satellites: Provide global data on cloud patterns, wind, and more.
72
Describe isobars
Close isobars indicate strong winds and turbulent weather.
Wide-spaced isobars suggest light winds and calm weather. High-pressure areas (anticyclones) are typically marked by isobars forming a circular or oval shape. Low-pressure areas (depressions) are marked by isobars forming a spiral pattern.
73
Describe the characteristics of the CBD in a developed place
High Density: Compact area with concentrated commercial, retail, and office buildings.Transport Hub: Well-connected by public transportation (buses, trains, subways) and major roads.Tall Buildings: Skyscrapers and multi-story office blocks dominate the skyline.
Economic Activity: The core for businesses, finance, shopping, and services.
74
Describe the characteristics of the inner city in a developed place
Mixed Land Use: Combination of residential, commercial, and industrial spaces. Older Infrastructure: Many buildings are older, with a mix of well-maintained and deteriorating structures. Economic Diversity: Includes small businesses, shops, and services catering to local communities. Transportation: Well-served by public transport, with easy access to the CBD and surrounding areas.
75
Describe the characteristics of the suburbs/city edge in a developed place
Lower Population Density: More spacious with larger homes, often with gardens or lawns.
Residential Focus: Primarily made up of housing, including single-family homes, townhouses, and apartment complexes.Suburban Shopping Areas: Local retail centers, supermarkets, and schools serving the community.Good Transport Links: Access to major roads and public transport connecting to the city center.Urban Sprawl: Expansion of residential and commercial development on the outskirts of the city.
76
Describe and explain recent developments in Glasgows CBD
The Avenues Project to enhance streets like Sauchiehall and Argyle with more greenery, and a major renovation of George Square. Key investments include new residential and office buildings, like Moda at Pitt Street and Candleriggs Square. Buchanan Galleries will expand into a mixed-use space instead of being demolished, and the Merchant Quarter is planned as a zero-car neighborhood.
77
Describe and explain recent developments in Glasgows Inner city
The £250 million Sighthill Transformational Regeneration Area aims to revitalize the north side of the city with new housing, infrastructure, and community facilities. These projects, along with a £200 million public sector investment, aim to increase residential, office, and leisure spaces while improving accessibility and sustainability
78
Describe and explain recent developments in Glasgows Suburbs
There are new student accommodation projects such as the 432-bed facility on Renfrew Street. These developments are aimed at meeting housing demand, improving amenities, and enhancing local areas.
79
Describe and explain the issues in informal housing in developing world cities (Mumbai)
Overcrowding: Limited space leads to high population density, with many families living in small, poorly ventilated areas.
Lack of Basic Services: Slums often lack access to clean water, sanitation, and electricity, leading to health risks.
80
Describe and explain the solutions in informal housing in developing world cities (Mumbai)
Slum Rehabilitation: Projects like the Mumbai Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA) aim to replace slums with permanent, affordable housing. Incremental Housing: Programs support gradual home upgrades, allowing residents to improve their living conditions over time
81
What does urbanisation mean
Urbanization is the process where an increasing proportion of a population moves from rural areas to urban centers, leading to the growth of cities.
82
Give me three causes of urbanisation
Employment Opportunities: Cities offer more jobs, particularly in industries, services, and technology, which attract people seeking better wages and career prospects.
Improved Living Conditions: Urban areas provide better access to healthcare, education, and social services, offering an improved standard of living compared to rural areas.
Industrialization: The growth of industries in urban areas creates a demand for labor, leading to migration from rural areas to cities for work in factories and businesses.
83
Describe and explain the location of extensive commercial farming in the great plains
Climate: The region has a semi-arid climate, with low rainfall but suitable growing conditions for crops like wheat, corn, and barley. Irrigation systems have also been developed to mitigate water scarcity in some areas.
Flat Terrain: which is essential for extensive commercial farming. Technological Advancements: Modern farming technology, such as GPS-guided tractors and advanced irrigation systems, has made large-scale farming more efficient.
84
Describe and explain the Land use pattern of extensive commercial farming in the great plains
Farms: Farms cover vast areas, using modern machinery to manage crops and livestock with minimal labor. Livestock Grazing: Grasslands are used for cattle ranching, essential for beef production. Irrigation: Irrigation is used in drier areas to supplement natural rainfall and ensure crop growth.
85
Describe and explain the main characteristics of extensive commercial farming in the great plains
Mechanization: The use of advanced machinery, such as tractors and harvesters, to reduce labor costs and increase output. Livestock Grazing: Cattle ranching is common, with large tracts of land used for grazing.
Irrigation: Irrigation systems are used to supplement rainfall and ensure crop growth in the region's semi-arid climate.
86
Describe and explain how recent changes in the great plains have affected farmers (biofuels, GM crops, organic farming, new tech and diversification)
Biofuels: Increased demand for biofuels has led to more crops being grown for fuel, raising prices and creating competition with food production. Technology: GPS, drones, and automated systems boost efficiency but can be costly for smaller farms.Diversification: Farmers are diversifying into livestock or alternative crops to reduce risks but must invest in new skills and equipment.
87
Describe soil erosion (one of the environmental challenges)
Soil erosion is the process where the topsoil, which contains vital nutrients, is worn away by wind, water, or human activity. It is a major environmental challenge because it reduces soil fertility, affects agricultural productivity, and can lead to desertification
88
Explain the extreme climates (an environmental challenge)
Desert Climates: Hot, dry conditions with little rainfall make agriculture difficult and lead to water scarcity and soil erosion.
Tundra Climates: Cold temperatures and short growing seasons limit biodiversity and farming, while thawing permafrost damages infrastructure.Tropical Climates: These regions experience extreme weather like hurricanes and floods, which damage crops, infrastructure, and disrupt lives.
89
Give examples of economic challenges in the great plains
Agricultural Dependency: The region’s economy relies heavily on farming, making it vulnerable to price fluctuations and climate events. Water Scarcity: Limited water resources for irrigation increase farming costs and affect crop yields. Rural Decline: Mechanization has reduced the need for labor, leading to population decline and weaker local economies.
90
Give examples of the technological advancements in the great plains
GPS-guided Tractors: These tractors increase farming efficiency by allowing precise planting, irrigation, and harvesting, reducing waste and labor costs. Genetically Modified (GM) Crops: GM crops, such as drought-resistant corn, help increase yields and reduce the need for chemical inputs.
91
Give examples of the soil conservation techniques in the great plains
Contour Plowing: Plowing along the contours of the land reduces water runoff and prevents soil erosion by slowing down water flow. Windbreaks: Planting trees or shrubs along the edges of fields helps reduce wind erosion by blocking strong winds that carry away topsoil.
92
Give examples of positive impacts of farming in the great plains
Economic Growth: Farming, especially crops like wheat and corn, is a major driver of the regional economy, providing jobs and contributing to local and national markets. Food Production: The Great Plains is a key agricultural region, producing a significant portion of the world’s food, especially grains, which support global food security.
93
Give examples of sustainable farming practices
Crop Rotation: Growing different types of crops in a sequence on the same land helps prevent soil depletion, control pests, and reduce the need for chemical fertilizers. Cover Cropping: Planting crops like legumes during the off-season helps improve soil health, prevent erosion, and enhance nitrogen levels in the soil.
94
How are the great plains adapting to climate change
Drought-Resistant Crops: Farmers are increasingly planting drought-resistant crops, such as certain types of wheat and corn, which are better suited to the region's changing climate. This helps mitigate the impacts of reduced rainfall and increasing temperatures. Diversification: Many farmers are diversifying their crops and livestock to reduce reliance on a single product. This increases resilience against climate variability and market fluctuations.
95
Describe and explain the physical factors influencing global population distribution
Climate: Mild, temperate climates with adequate rainfall support higher populations, while extreme climates (deserts, polar regions) have sparse populations. Water Availability: Proximity to water sources supports larger populations, while dry regions have lower densities due to limited water access. Natural Resources: Areas rich in resources like fertile land and minerals attract more people, while regions lacking resources often have smaller populations.
96
Describe and explain the human factors influencing global population distribution
Social Factors: Cultural and historical factors, including migration patterns and social networks, influence where people choose to live. Family ties and community support systems often encourage people to settle in certain regions. Urbanization: As more people move to cities for work, education, and healthcare, urban areas grow rapidly. This migration from rural to urban areas increases the population density in cities. Government Policies: Policies like immigration laws, subsidies, or incentives for settlement in certain areas can influence population distribution. For example, some countries offer incentives for people to move to underpopulated regions.
97
Describe and explain factors affecting birth rates
Economic Development: Higher income and better job opportunities, especially for women, often lead to lower birth rates due to career priorities and financial constraints. Cultural and Religious Beliefs: Cultural preferences for family size and religious views on contraception can significantly influence birth rates, with some cultures favoring larger families. Healthcare Access: Better access to contraception and reproductive health services tends to reduce birth rates by allowing family planning.
98
Describe and explain factors affecting death rates
Healthcare Access: Better healthcare systems, including medical treatments and disease prevention, lower death rates by improving life expectancy.
Nutrition and Sanitation: Access to clean water, proper nutrition, and sanitation reduces deaths from diseases, particularly in developing regions. Environmental Factors: Natural disasters, pollution, and climate conditions can increase death rates, particularly in vulnerable regions.
99
Describe and explain what a population pyramid shows
A population pyramid shows the distribution of a population by age and sex. The shape indicates population growth: a wide base suggests high birth rates, while a narrower base indicates lower birth rates. It displays the age structure, with more younger people signaling growth and more older people indicating an aging population. It helps predict future trends, such as potential challenges in healthcare, workforce, or education.
100
Describe and explain the effect of a rapidly growing population for developing countries
Strain on Resources: Increased demand for food, water, healthcare, and housing can overwhelm available resources, leading to shortages and poverty. Unemployment: A growing population often leads to higher competition for jobs, resulting in higher unemployment rates and underemployment, particularly among the youth. Environmental Degradation: Higher population growth can lead to deforestation, pollution, and overuse of natural resources, which worsens environmental conditions.
101
Describe and explain the effect of a rapidly ageing population for developed countries
Increased Healthcare Costs: As the elderly population grows, there is greater demand for healthcare services, increasing costs for hospitals, long-term care, and pensions. This puts pressure on national healthcare systems. Labor Shortages: An aging population means fewer people in the workforce, leading to potential shortages of skilled workers, which can slow economic growth and productivity. Pension Strain: With more retirees and fewer working-age individuals contributing to pension systems, there is greater financial strain on social security and retirement programs, requiring reforms or increased taxes.
102
Describe and explain the social indicators
Life Expectancy: The average number of years a person is expected to live, often reflecting healthcare quality, living conditions, and overall health standards in a country. Literacy Rate: The percentage of people aged 15 and above who can read and write, indicating access to education and its quality. Infant Mortality Rate: The number of deaths of infants under one year old per 1,000 live births. This is an important indicator of healthcare quality, sanitation, and nutrition.
103
Describe and explain the economic indicators
Gross Domestic Product (GDP): The total value of all goods and services produced within a country in a given period. It measures economic activity and growth. A higher GDP indicates a strong economy.Unemployment Rate: The percentage of the labor force that is jobless but actively seeking work. High unemployment suggests economic problems, while low unemployment indicates a healthy economy.
104
Explain the advantages of using combines development indicators (HDI and PQLI) over single development indicators
Balanced Perspective: They consider both social and economic aspects, unlike GDP, which focuses only on economic output. Better Comparisons: They enable meaningful comparisons between countries with different economic levels, highlighting areas needing improvement beyond just economic growth. Policy Insights: These indicators help identify key areas for improvement (e.g., healthcare or education) that single indicators may overlook.
105
What is population distribution
Population distribution refers to how people are spread out across a certain area, like a country or region. It shows where populations are concentrated (e.g., in cities) or sparse (e.g., in deserts or mountains), based on factors like climate, land type, and resources. Simply put, it describes where people live and why some areas have more people than others.
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Give examples of physical factors effecting population distribution
Climate: Mild climates (e.g., temperate zones) tend to support larger populations, while harsh climates (e.g., deserts, polar regions) are sparsely populated. Natural Resources: Fertile land or areas rich in resources (e.g., mineral deposits or agricultural land) attract larger populations due to economic opportunities.
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Give examples of human factors effecting population distribution
Economic Opportunities: People tend to live in areas with jobs and industries, such as cities or regions with agricultural or industrial hubs (e.g., Silicon Valley in the U.S. for tech jobs).
Government Policies: Policies like urban planning, immigration laws, or incentives to live in certain areas (e.g., China’s policies encouraging rural development) can influence population distribution.
Social and Cultural Factors: People may cluster in areas where their culture or religion is dominant, leading to higher population density in certain regions (e.g., large communities of specific ethnic groups in urban areas).Education and Healthcare: Access to quality education and healthcare attracts people to certain areas, especially cities with universities or advanced medical facilities.
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Problems with overpopulation
Resource Shortages: More people demand more food, water, and energy, which can deplete resources quickly, leading to scarcity and higher costs. Environmental Degradation: Overpopulation contributes to pollution, deforestation, and the depletion of natural habitats, harming ecosystems and biodiversity.
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problems with under population
Labour Shortages: Fewer people in the workforce can result in a shortage of workers, affecting industries, productivity, and economic growth. Economic Decline: With fewer people consuming goods and services, demand drops, leading to slower economic growth and potentially stagnation. Ageing Population: Under population often coincides with an aging population, creating a higher dependency ratio. Fewer working-age people must support a larger elderly population, straining social welfare systems.
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What is a strategy to reduce population growth
Improved Access to Contraception: Ensuring that people have access to a wide range of affordable contraceptive methods, allowing them to control the number and timing of children. Education and Awareness: Educating both men and women about the benefits of family planning, the impact of overpopulation, and the available resources. Government Policies: Implementing policies that support family planning, such as financial incentives for smaller families or campaigns promoting smaller family sizes.
111
Give the definition of GDP per capita
GDP per capita is a measure of a country's economic output divided by its population. It is used to assess the average economic well-being of individuals in a country
112
Give the definition of Literacy rate
Literacy rate refers to the percentage of people aged 15 and above who can read and write, with understanding, in at least one language.
113
Give the definition of Life expectancy
Life expectancy is the average number of years a person is expected to live, based on current mortality rates. It reflects the overall health, healthcare quality, and living conditions in a region or country. Factors like nutrition, access to healthcare, sanitation, and economic conditions influence life expectancy, with higher life expectancies typically seen in developed countries.
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Give the definition of Infant mortality rate
Infant mortality rate is the number of infants who die before reaching one year of age, per 1,000 live births in a given year
115
Give the definition of Human development index (HDI)
Human Development Index (HDI) is a composite measure used to assess the overall development of a country. It combines three key dimensions:
Life expectancy (health) – a measure of the average lifespan, reflecting the health and healthcare quality. Education – measured by mean years of schooling for adults and expected years of schooling for children. Income – measured by Gross National Income (GNI) per capita, adjusted for purchasing power parity.
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Give historical factors for the development gap
Colonialism: Colonies were exploited for resources, leaving them with weak economies after independence. Slavery: The transatlantic slave trade disrupted economies, particularly in Africa, hindering long-term development. Wars and Conflicts: Wars damaged infrastructure and economies, slowing development.
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Give Economical factors for the development gap
Access to Capital: Wealthier countries have more investment opportunities, while poorer countries struggle to fund growth. Trade Imbalances: Developing countries often export raw materials at low prices and import costly goods, limiting their economic growth.
Debt: High debt burdens in poorer countries divert funds from development to loan repayments.
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Give Environmental factors for the development gap
Soil Fertility: Fertile land supports agriculture, which is vital for economic growth. Countries with poor soil or less access to arable land may struggle to produce food and income. Access to Resources: Countries rich in natural resources (e.g., oil, minerals) tend to have more economic opportunities, while those without these resources may face development challenges.
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What is a development gap
A development gap refers to the significant differences in levels of development between countries or regions. It is marked by disparities in income, education, healthcare, infrastructure, and living standards.
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How do you reduce a development gap
Improving Education: Expanding access to quality education helps build a skilled workforce, leading to economic growth and reduced inequality.Increasing Access to Healthcare: Reducing the gap in health services improves life expectancy and quality of life, which contributes to a more productive workforce.
