Climate and Vegetation South America Ch 9 sec 2

I. Varied Climate and Vegetation Because the continent stretches north and south, there is a huge variety in the climates and vegetation that are found there. There are dry, desert conditions in Mexico and southern Chile. There is rain forest in the Amazon Basin. Savannah regions in Argentina and Colombia. Plus, the ocean currents from the Atlantic and Pacific affect temperature and climate as well. http://www-odp.tamu.edu/publications/201_SR/122/images/22_f03.gif

II. Tropical Climate Zones The rain forests are in the tropical wet zone, where it is hot and rainy all year long. The forests have a large number of tree species and animal species. The wet and dry climates support the grasslands in the tropical and subtropical regions. They are hot with seasonal rains. http://www.tropical-rainforest-animals.com/image-files/atlantic-rainforest-brazil.jpg

III. Dry Climate Zones The dry climate zones are located away from the equator, Mexico to the north, and the southern half of the continent in the south. Semi-arid climate has some rain but is mostly dry. Grassy plains and shrubs grow in these regions. Desert regions are found in northern Mexico and the coast of Peru. Chile and Argentina also have desert regions. http://epictomato.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/ATACAMA.jpg

IV. Mid-Latitude Climate Zones These zones are located south of the equator, and they have moderate climates similar to the U.S. Humid subtropical areas have rainy winters and hot humid summers. There is a variety of vegetation here. Mediterranean climate is similar to California, and is found in coastal Chile. http://www.topangamessenger.com/Photos/v36n14/cover_medclimate_goldenhourfog_600.jpg

IV. Mid-Latitude Climate Zones There is also a marine west coast climate, similar to England or Washington state, found in southern Chile and Argentina. Cold, rainy winters and mild rainy summers. Highlands climate can change from cold to moderate, depending on elevation. Wind landscape can also affect the climate in these areas. http://www.sayersnet.com/history/mwc2.jpg

In your notebooks Answer questions 1,2, and 3 at the end of the section.