Basic Geographical Concepts

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What is geography?

Geography is the study of Earth's landscapes, environments, and the relationships between people and their environments.

What is a 'continent'?

A continent is a large continuous mass of land conventionally regarded as a collective region.

What is 'latitude'?

Latitude is the measurement of distance north or south of the Equator, expressed in degrees.

What is 'longitude'?

Longitude is the measurement of distance east or west of the Prime Meridian, expressed in degrees.

What is the 'Prime Meridian'?

The Prime Meridian is the earth's zero of longitude, which by convention passes through Greenwich, England.

What is 'climate'?

Climate refers to the long-term patterns of temperature and precipitation in a particular region.

What is 'topography'?

Topography is the arrangement of the natural and artificial physical features of an area.

Define 'ecosystem'.

An ecosystem is a community of living organisms in conjunction with the non-living components they interact with, forming a system.

What is 'globalization' in geography?

Globalization is the process by which businesses or other organizations develop international influence or start operating on an international scale.

What is 'urbanization'?

Urbanization is the increase in the percentage of a population living in urban areas.

What is 'demography'?

Demography is the statistical study of populations, especially human beings.

What is the 'hydrological cycle'?

The hydrological cycle is the continuous movement of water on, above, and below the surface of the Earth.

What does 'biodiversity' mean?

Biodiversity refers to the variety and variability of life on Earth.

What is a 'biome'?

A biome is a large community of plants and animals that occupies a distinct region defined by its climate and vegetation.

What is 'cartography'?

Cartography is the science or practice of drawing maps.