AP Human Geography Chapter 1 Vocab Review

Study Notes

Key Vocabulary from Human Geography

Resource
- Substance in the environment useful to people
- Must be economically feasible and socially acceptable
- Example: Land for crop production
Sustainability
- Using Earth's resources to ensure future availability
- Example: Solar energy to maintain fuel sources like coal and gas
Renewable Resource
- Produced in nature faster than human consumption
- Example: Oxygen replenished more rapidly than used
Nonrenewable Resource
- Produced in nature slower than human consumption
- Example: Coal, consumed faster than it can be formed
Conservation
- Sustainable management of natural resources to meet human needs
- Example: Planting flowers for bees to support pollination
Preservation
- Maintaining resources in their current state with minimal human impact
- Example: Cleaning up streams to protect water quality
Biotic
- Systems composed of living organisms
- Example: The biosphere includes all plants and animals
Abiotic
- Systems composed of non-living or inorganic matter
- Example: The hydrosphere pertains to water and its forms
Atmosphere
- Thin layer of gases surrounding Earth
- Example: Water vapor in the atmosphere contributes to precipitation
Hydrosphere
- Water in liquid form (oceans, lakes, rivers, groundwater)
- Also includes water vapor contributing to weather phenomena
Lithosphere
- Crust and upper mantle of Earth
- Extends about 45 miles deep beneath the crust
Biosphere
- Totality of living organisms on Earth, including plants and animals
- Only biotic system among the four spheres
Climate
- Long-term average weather conditions in a specific area
- Example: Arctic climate characterized by cold winters and cool summers
Ecosystem
- Interaction among living organisms and the abiotic spheres
- Example: Lithosphere provides materials for human structures
Ecology
- Scientific study concerning ecosystems and their interactions
- Study of effects like pollution in the atmosphere
Cultural Ecology
- Geographic study of human-environment relationships
- Example: Alaskans may prefer skiing over surfing due to environmental factors
Environmental Determinism
- Theory that physical environment influences social development
- Associated with geographers Alexander von Humboldt and Carl Ritter

Description

Test your knowledge of key vocabulary from Chapter 1, Key Issue 4 of AP Human Geography. This quiz covers essential terms such as 'Resource' and 'Sustainability' that are crucial for understanding the subject. Use this as a tool to reinforce your learning and prepare for exams.