Geography of South Africa

Question 1

What are the lines of latitude and longitude for South Africa?

Answer 1

South Africa is located between approximately 22°S and 35°S latitude and 17°E to 33°E longitude.

Question 2

Which oceans and ocean currents are found around South Africa?

Answer 2

The Atlantic Ocean is to the west, the Indian Ocean is to the east and south. The Benguela Current flows northwards along the west coast, and the Agulhas Current flows southwards down the east coast.

Question 3

Name the major mountain ranges in South Africa.

Answer 3

Drakensberg, Cape Fold Belt (including Outeniqua and Langeberg ranges), and Cederberg.

Question 4

What are the largest rivers in South Africa?

Answer 4

Orange River and Limpopo River.

Question 5

What are the factors influencing climate and vegetation on the East and West coasts of South Africa?

Answer 5

West Coast – cold north-flowing Benguela current; East Coast – warm south-flowing Mozambique/Agulhas current.

Question 6

What is the average rainfall in South Africa?

Answer 6

469.9mm

Question 7

Which areas in South Africa receive the lowest and highest rainfall?

Answer 7

Lowest - Namaqualand; Highest - Windward side of Cape mountains, Drakensberg, Mpumalanga Escarpment.

Question 8

What are the average annual temperatures in major South African cities during summer and winter?

Answer 8

Cape Town: Summer 22°C, Winter 11°C
Bloemfontein: Summer 24°C, Winter 8°C
Durban: Summer 25°C, Winter 17°C
Johannesburg: Summer 22°C, Winter 10°C
Kimberley: Summer 26°C, Winter 11°C
Nelspruit: Summer 27°C, Winter 13°C
Pretoria: Summer 25°C, Winter 12°C