Important Geography Terms

Arctic Circle – the line of latitude that marks the boundary of the northern polar zone

Oasis – an isolated spot in the desert where green land and water may be found

Mountain – natural elevation of the earth’s surface (+2000 feet)

Source- the beginning or place of origin of a stream or river

Isthmus – Narrow strip of land that links two larger land masses

Island – Landmass surrounded by water

Peninsula – Narrow land surrounded by water on three sides

Strait – Narrow piece of water that separates two larger land masses

Delta – often triangular shaped deposit of sand that occurs when a river flows into an ocean

Plateau – raised area of land with a flat top

Archipelago – multiple landmasses surrounded by water

N & S Hemisphere and equator – Parts of the globe split by the equator at ZERO degrees latitude

Canyon – deep valley with steep sides often with a river flowing through it

River Systems – a main river with others channeling into it

Tributary – a stream that eventually flows into a river