lesson 7 test Flashcards
to study for geography
Define Geography.
Geography is the study of places and the relationships between people and their environments. It examines both the physical aspects of Earth, like landforms and natural resources, and the distribution and activities of human societies across the globe. Geographers explore how the natural environment and human actions influence each other and how the characteristics of different places can impact people’s lives and cultures.
Differentiate between physical and human geography, and provide two examples of each.
Physical geography focuses on natural elements of Earth, such as landforms, climates, and natural resources. Examples include:
Mountains: Physical features that impact climate and settlement.
Rivers: Important for freshwater and agriculture
Human geography deals with human populations, cultures, economic activities, and the impact of human activity on Earth. Examples include:
Population density: The study of how people are distributed in an area.
Cultural diversity: The variety of cultures, languages, and traditions in different regions.
Explain the importance of natural resources in physical geography and list three examples.
Natural resources are materials found in nature that can be used for economic benefit. They are crucial for human survival, economic growth, and industrial production. Examples include:
Forests: Provide wood and regulate climate.
Water: Essential for drinking, agriculture, and industry.
Minerals: Used in manufacturing and technology.
Describe three types of physical features and their influence on human activity.
Mountains: Can act as barriers to transportation, influence climate, and often lead to isolated communities.
Rivers: Provide water for drinking, agriculture, and industry, often leading to dense settlements along riverbanks.
Deserts: Harsh climates with limited water resources; human settlements are sparse and often rely on innovative water management.
List Earth’s main climate zones and explain how each influences the way of life in its region.
Tropical Zone: Characterized by warm temperatures and abundant rainfall, supporting diverse ecosystems and agriculture.
Temperate Zone: Has moderate climates that allow for a variety of crops, supporting large populations and diverse economic activities.
Polar Zone: Cold climates limit vegetation and population density; people in these regions adapt by relying on subsistence activities and specialized shelter.
Discuss the role of population characteristics in human geography. Provide examples.
and birth and death rates. These factors help geographers understand the demographics of an area, such as:
A high birth rate might indicate a young population with potential for economic growth.
High population density can suggest urbanization and may impact housing, infrastructure, and resource use.
Compare and contrast two economic systems mentioned in human geography.
Capitalism: An economic system where resources are owned by individuals or corporations, and prices are determined by supply and demand. It encourages competition and innovation but can lead to income inequality.
Socialism: Resources and production are often managed by the state to ensure equal distribution. This system aims to reduce inequality but can sometimes limit economic incentives.
Explain why human migration occurs and give two examples of its causes.
Human migration happens when people move from one place to another for various reasons:
Employment opportunities: People often migrate to areas with more jobs and economic prospects.
Environmental factors: Natural disasters or environmental degradation can force people to relocate for safety or better living conditions.
What is cultural diversity, and how does it influence societies?
Cultural diversity refers to the range of different cultures, languages, religions, and traditions within a region. This diversity enriches societies by bringing various perspectives, foods, traditions, and innovations. However, it can also present challenges, such as the need for policies to ensure mutual respect and inclusion among different cultural groups.
Describe how human activities impact Earth and mention two examples.
Human activities, like urbanization and industrialization, alter the natural environment. For instance:
Deforestation: Clearing forests for agriculture or urban expansion reduces biodiversity and contributes to climate change.
Pollution: Industrial waste and emissions harm ecosystems and pose health risks to humans.
Identify and explain three common settlement patterns.
Linear: Settlements arranged in a line, often along rivers or roads, which provide easy access to transportation and resources.
Scattered: Settlements spread over a large area, typical in rural or agricultural regions where space and resources are abundant.
Clustered: Settlements grouped closely together, common in urban areas with high population density and accessible resources.
How is population density calculated, and what does it indicate about a region?
Population density is calculated by dividing the population by the area (often in square kilometers). It indicates how crowded or sparsely populated an area is, which helps in understanding infrastructure needs, resource allocation, and living conditions. High density often means urban areas with more housing and transportation demands, while low density typically corresponds to rural areas with less strain on resources.
What factors influence human settlement locations, and why are water resources essential?
Agriculture: Fertile land and favorable climates support farming.
Economic opportunities: Jobs and trade attract people to certain areas.
Natural disasters: Areas prone to earthquakes or floods may deter settlements.
Water resources are crucial as they support drinking, sanitation, agriculture, and industry, making them a key factor for settlements across different climates.
Explain how accommodating future population growth will require adjustments in three main areas.
Food Production: New agricultural practices, like vertical farming, will be needed to produce more food on limited land.
Renewable Energy: Moving from fossil fuels to renewable sources, such as solar and wind power, will help meet energy needs sustainably.
Housing Development: Eco-friendly housing and efficient urban planning will be essential to provide shelter without overusing resources.
