1. Physical and Climate

2. 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

3. 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

4. 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

5. 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

7. 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

8. 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

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