Social Studies Study Guide

What is one disease that some plants in the Amazon rain forest can be used to fight?

Some of the plants in an Amazon rain forest fight deadly diseases such as malaria and cancer.

How does an Argentina sugarcane plantation contrast with a region that lies in a rain shadow?

A sugarcane plantation is flat and green and receives a great deal of moisture. An area in a rain shadow is a dry region on the downward side of a mountain that receives next to no moisture.

How is the climate in the northern part of South America similar to the southern part?

Both the northern and southern parts of the continent have mild, warm climates that are ideal for growing crops.

What types of crops are grown at a low elevation? What types of crops are grown at a high elevation?

Crops produced at lower elevations in South America include coffee, corn, what, tropical fruit, sugarcane, and soybeans. No substantial crops grow in high elevations.

How do El Ninos influence climate on the western coast of South America?

El Ninos reverse the usual wind and ocean currents, bringing warm air and water currents that produce high rainfall in coastal areas.

How does elevation influence climate in South America?

Elevation affects where people live and how they use the land. Lower elevations have a hot climate with rainfall to support the growth of crops such as bananas, peppers, and sugarcane. Most people do not live in the higher elevations because the land is frozen and crops cannot grow in areas with freezing temperatures.

In what ways does deforestation hurt the Amazon rain forest?

Fewer plants and trees produce less moisture and cloud cover, which impacts a wide area. With fewer plants and trees to absorb greenhouse gas, air quality decreases.

What is global warming and how is it different from climate change?

Global warming is a term used to describe the rapid warming of Earth's surface over the last century. Climate change is defined as gradual shifts in Earth's climate due to natural causes.

What are the benefits of living on South America's grassy plains compared to the extreme climates of high mountains and the tropical rain forest?

One of the benefits is that the plains have both moderate temperatures and rainfall. These conditions provide opportunities for ranching and large-scale farming.

How does transpiration affect plant life in the rain forest?

Plants and trees release water vapor into the air, and as it rises it cools the air, forming clouds that produce rain. The rain helps trees and plants to grow.

How is the climate of the Amazon River Basin different from the climate of the Andes Mountains?

The Amazon River Basin has a warm, wet climate and the Andes Mountains have a cool, dry climate.

What is the largest river basin on Earth and where is it located?

The Amazon River Basin is the largest river basin on Earth. It covers 2,700,000 square miles and is located in the north central part of South America.

What is the difference between the Amazon River and its tributaries?

The Amazon River is the world's largest river. Tributaries are smaller rivers that drain into the Amazon River.

How are the Peru Current and the Brazil Current different?

The Peru Current brings cold waters to the Pacific coast in the west. The Brazil Current brings warm waters from the Atlantic.

What is one way that wind and ocean currents influence the South American climate?

The Peru Current brings cold waters to the Pacific coast in the west. This creates an ideal environment for fish.