Geography Chapter 7 and 8 Review
How does its location in the tropics affect the climate of central America and the Caribbean?
Carry moist air and results in high temperatures, abundant year round. Tropical and subtropical climate region mainly. (central america) tropical dry/wet. east winds- moist wind. leaves western islands dryer (not as fertile soil).
Why is soil erosion and soil decline such an issue in Central America and the Caribbean?
Causes sedimentation which leads to the destruction of coral reefs which destroys many livelihoods
How have the traditions and beliefs of indigenous peoples, Africans, and Europeans shaped society and culture in Central America and the Caribbean?
Created unique language, traditions and art. Creates dialects. blend of religions both Catholicism (Spain), christian religions, and indigenous beliefs
How does climate affect human activities in Mexico?
Depending on climate: people have different jobs
Why are the majority of Central America's people concentrated in the Central Highlands?
Fertile soil (volcanoes): agriculture and dense population areas
Why does Mexico have few major rivers and natural lakes?
High plateaus and mountains; very hot and dry. Because rain shadow: dry
What economic factors have helped maintain an unequal distribution of wealth in Central America and Caribbean?
Agriculture as large employer/ hacienda system (large scale growers employ lots of ppl for little pay) hampers reform. still stuck in industrial employment, cottage industry.
How are Central American rivers and lakes important to the human systems of the area?
Aiding growth and development; transportation; drainage; irrigation; drinking; and a source of hydroelectric power
How has South america's rugged landscape both attracted and isolated people
Andes gives fertile soil and cool weather- attracted ppl for generations. Due to high peaks and rugged landscape- many small communities are extremely isolated
Why is the Mexican plateau considered the heartland of Mexico
Between two mountain ranges. North: Large cities Southern Plateau: Bread basket; large farming community. Many people live in area.
Why is biodiversity protection so important in Central America?
To save rainforests;species that live in them; protect livelihoods of people who rely on the rainforest
How are south America's rivers important for economic development?
Transportation, irrigation necessary for agriculture
How do growing human needs affect resources and the environment in Central America and the Caribbean?
Water shortages/access to freshwater is a problem for many countries. Water is a main dispute due to the lack of natural rivers and waterways. Water usage (hydroelectric power) makes problems as well- leads to disturbances in environment.
Write a sentence to describe the difference between an isthmus and a archipelago
Isthmus is a narrow strip of land connecting two larger land areas Archipelago is a group or chain of islands
How does climate affect human activities on South America
Jobs are dependent on climate. no agriculture in a desert!
How did colonialism influence the history and government of central America and the Caribbean?
Large Spanish and European influence in Central America and Caribbean
How have migration and rapid growth affected the population?
Large blending of of ethnic groups. Population growth rate is extremely high. Population density is one of the highest in the world