Physical and Climate

Cradles of Civilization Nile Delta 90% of population live in delta or on river Alluvial Soil Rich soil made up of sand and mud deposited by moving water Tigris and Euphrates Irrigation network has watered the valley and supported farming for 7,000 years Come together in Iraq – form the Shatt al Arab Empties into Persian Gulf

Plains, Plateaus, and Mountains Coastal Plains Off Mediterranean Sea in Morocco and Algeria Highlands Atlas Mountains Africa’s longest mountain range Through Morocco and Algeria On the edge of the Sahara Desert Arabian Peninsula Hejaz and Asir Mountains

Natural Resources Oil and Natural Gas Minerals 70% of worlds known oil reserves and 33% of natural gas are in region Minerals Sulfate Paperboard, glass, and detergents Phosphate Chemical used in fertilizer

Water: A Precious Resource Desert Climate Sahara Desert Largest desert in the world – 3.5 million square miles Averages 10 inches per year or less Desert encompasses 50% of land Rub’ al Khali Also called empty quarter Largest area of sand in the region – 250,000 square miles Cactus and drought resistant shrubs Small farming is possible in an oasis Place where water can be found underground

Steppe Climate Supports pasture land for sheep, goats, and camels Pastoralism The raising and grazing of livestock Way of life for many that live in the steppe

Climatic Variations Exports and Tourists Rainfall Morocco, Tunisia, and Syria – export citrus fruits, olives, and grapes Visitors will come to the region to view the historical sites Rainfall Coastal and highland regions will receive most rainfall

Questions How do the people who live in northern Africa adapt to their climate? Why must water be preserved in a desert climate?