Chapter 8, Section 1: Physical Geography Central America and the Caribbean

The Big Idea The physical geography of Central America and the Caribbean islands includes warm coastal lowlands, cooler highlands, and tropical forests.

Physical Features Central America The region of Central America is the southern part of North America. Central America is an isthmus, or narrow strip of land that connects two larger land areas. The ruggedness of the mountains and volcanoes plus lack of water routes makes travel difficult.

Physical Features Caribbean Islands The Caribbean is made up of hundreds of islands known as an archipelago. The two main island groups in the Caribbean are the Greater Antilles and Lesser Antilles Many Caribbean islands are tops of underwater mountains and volcanoes. They are located along edges of tectonic plates. Movement of these plates cause earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.

Climate and Vegetation Central America and the Caribbean islands are generally sunny and warm. Inland mountain areas contain cool, humid climates, some are covered with cloud forests which are home to numerous plant and animal species.

Climate and Vegetation (continued) Temperatures do not change much throughout the year. Seasons are marked by changes in rainfall: Winter is usually dry. Summer, rains almost daily. Hurricane season is between June and November bringing heavy winds and flooding.

Resources The regions best resources are its land and climate. Tourism is an important industry. Warm climate and rich soil make the region a good place to grow coffee, bananas, sugarcane, and cotton. Central America and the Caribbean have few mineral and energy resources.