M1 IQ2 Part 1 - spatial patterns and dimensions: location, altitude, latitude, size, shape and continuity

Question 1

what is a rainforest

Answer 1

A multilayer tree dominated community with a closed canopy where light penetration significantly reduces with each layer & majority of the growing tissue in the above biomass

Question 2

what is the basic outline of their nature (introductory) (3)

Answer 2

• cover < 2% of the earth -
• home to 50-70% of earth’s biodiversity
• found in conditions where plant growth is optimal (intense heat, light, abundant and well distributed rainfall)

Question 3

Draw the dimensions of the amazon rainforest ( location, altitude, latitude/longitude, size, shape)

Answer 3

( see diagram for additional information)
Location: South America,
Altitude: three highlands (Guiana highlands = above, The Andes = Left, Brazilian highlands)
LAT
Size: 1500km between Manaus and belem (write a key in the corner)
shape:(Kim Kardashian’s’ butt shape)

Question 4

how does latitudes affect the amazon rainforest (3)

Answer 4

• direct sun all year round
• constant warm temp
• large amount of rainfall (every day starting a t 11am)

Question 5

what is the continuity like in rainforests

Answer 5

• 3 layer rainforest

- 4 layer rainforest

Question 6

what is the continuity of a 3 layer rainforest (2)

Answer 6

• the layers: emergent, canopy, understory
• located in the equatorial zone (between the tropics)
• 2% of light penetrates the continuous canopy (no plants on the forest floor)

Question 7

what is the continuity of a 4 layer rainforest (3)

Answer 7

• the layers: emergent, canopy, understory, forest floor
• located in temperate regions (30-50° N & S)
• seasonal change allows leaves to fall allowing light through the canopy, allowing understory plants to thrive