The Geography of Africa

The Continent of Africa Second largest continent in the world 4,600 miles East to West 5,000 miles North to South 1/5 of earths land surface Rivers are generally impossible to navigate (plateau to coast) Steep shoreline allows for few good harbors Very diverse environments

Deserts Makes up 40 % of continent Largely uninhabitable Temps up to 136 F, little rainfall Sahara in North, Kalahari in South Most of Sahara is flat gray wasteland, few sand dunes Sahara is ¼ of the continent, the size of the United States

Rainforest Makes up 5% of continent Densely wooded area stretches across half of the middle of Africa Hot and humid; lots of rain; Natures Greenhouse Mahogany and teak trees, thick leaves create a canopy so little light hits rain forest floor few small plants

Fertile Farmlands/Grassy Plains Mediterranean climate Northern Coast and Southern Tip good climates and fertile soil Sunny, dry, and hot, winters mild Rainfall is moderate Densely populated because of good soils and weather

Savannas Grassy plains Makes up 40% of Continent Tall grasses, acacia trees Two rainy seasons, supporting good agriculture (sorghum, millet)

The Sahel – coastline Dry grassland, sparse rainfall (can lead to drought) Land at Southern edge of the Sahara Desertification – steady process of the drying of the soil