Geography of the Arab World
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Questions and Answers

What are the main coastal plains of Palestine mentioned in the text?

The main coastal plains of Palestine are Saruunah plain, Mount Carmel plain, and the Acre plain.

Describe the significance of the Sahil Plain of Tunisia.

The Sahil Plain of Tunisia is significant for its olive monoculture.

What defines a flood plain, according to the content?

A flood plain is the floor of a river valley beyond the riverbed, formed from mud, sand, and silt left when the river overflows.

What are the two major tributaries of the Nile River?

<p>The two major tributaries of the Nile River are the White Nile and the Blue Nile.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How long is the Nile River as it flows through Egypt?

<p>The Nile River extends for approximately 1200 km between Aswan and the Mediterranean Sea.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the dominant feature of the Nile Delta?

<p>The dominant feature of the Nile Delta is sandy mounds of clay and silt that rise as islands.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Where does the Nile River end?

<p>The Nile River ends in a large delta that empties into the Mediterranean Sea.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What geographic region does the content mainly focus on?

<p>The content mainly focuses on geographical terrains in the Arab World.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are the two main geographical regions of the Arab League?

<p>The two main geographical regions are the Asian part and the African part.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the length of the Tell Atlas mountain chain?

<p>Over 1,500 kilometers.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which countries are included in West Asia according to the United Nations regional divisions?

<p>West Asia includes Bahrain, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Palestine, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, the UAE, and Yemen.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Name one animal species endemic to the Tell Atlas.

<p>Atlas bear.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are the three types of plains found in the Arab World?

<p>Coastal plains, flood plains, and inland plains.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Name two deserts that span the Arab League.

<p>The Sahara Desert and the Arabian Desert are two deserts that span the Arab League.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Define a coastal plain.

<p>A low-lying area of land adjacent to a sea.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the highest point in the Arab League and where is it located?

<p>The highest point is Jabal Toubkal, located in Morocco.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What natural forces contribute to the creation of landforms?

<p>Landforms are created by forces of nature such as wind, water, ice, and the movement of Earth's plates.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How wide is the Coastal Plain of Syria?

<p>About 20 miles in width.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes plains from other types of landforms?

<p>Plains are broad, level surfaces that are generally lower than the surrounding land.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which mountain ranges are noted as high mountains in the Arab World?

<p>The Atlas Mountains, Lebanon Mountains, and Hijaz Mountain range are notable high mountains.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are landscapes, and how are they related to landforms?

<p>Landscapes are groups of landforms in a particular area.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which Mediterranean Coastal Plain runs from the Turkish border to Lebanon?

<p>The Coastal Plain of Syria.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the height threshold that defines a plain?

<p>Less than 500 feet above sea level.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the lowest point in the Arab League and where is it found?

<p>The lowest point is the Dead Sea, found in Jordan.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the approximate width of the desert at its base?

<p>About 600 miles (970 km).</p> Signup and view all the answers

Describe the climate conditions of the Badia region.

<p>It has a harsh desert climate, with extreme temperature variations between day and night.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is an oasis in geographical terms?

<p>An isolated area of vegetation in a desert.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the historical significance of Palmyra?

<p>Palmyra was a vital caravan city known as the Bride of the Desert during Queen Zenobia's reign.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What makes Azraq Oasis unique compared to other areas in the Jordanian desert?

<p>It is the only permanent, natural wetland in the Jordanian desert.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does Azraq Oasis contribute to groundwater resources in Jordan?

<p>It is one of the most important recharging groundwater basins in Jordan.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What type of vegetation is primarily found in the Badia desert?

<p>Relatively flat, stony, and sandy plains with little or no vegetation.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why are the locations of Badiyat Al-Sham's major oases critical for trade?

<p>They provide essential stops for trade and transportation routes across desert areas.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason for the decrease in size of the Ghouta Oasis?

<p>The primary reason is the rapid expansion of housing and industry in Damascus.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Name two animal species that have been re-introduced to Badiyat Al-Sham preserves.

<p>The Arabian Oryx and the sand gazelle have been re-introduced.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role do rivers play in the formation of valleys?

<p>Rivers act as erosional agents that grind down rock or soil, creating a valley.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Describe the climate conditions that allow certain plants and animals to survive in Badiyat Al-Sham.

<p>Badiyat Al-Sham has a desert climate, which supports only certain drought-resistant plants and animals.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a valley and how is it typically created?

<p>A valley is an extended depression in the Earth's surface, typically created by erosion from rivers or streams.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do human activities affect wildlife in Badiyat Al-Sham?

<p>Human activities, such as hunting and habitat degradation, have led to the extinction of many desert species.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What types of crops have traditionally been grown in Ghouta Oasis?

<p>Traditionally, various cereals, vegetables, and fruits have been grown in Ghouta Oasis.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Identify one reason why valleys have been important for human development.

<p>Valleys are important for human development because they are typically located near rivers, providing water and fertile land.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are the two sub-climates of the Sahara Desert?

<p>The two sub-climates are a dry subtropical climate in the north and a dry tropical climate in the south.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What record high temperature is held by Azizia, Libya?

<p>Azizia, Libya, holds the record high temperature of 136.4° F (58° C).</p> Signup and view all the answers

Name two types of vegetation found in the Sahara Desert.

<p>Cypress and date palm are two types of vegetation found in the Sahara Desert.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What types of mammals can be found in the Sahara Desert?

<p>Mammals like gerbils, gazelles, and desert hedgehogs are found in the Sahara Desert.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How has the Sahara Desert's climate changed over the past 8,000 years?

<p>The Sahara Desert experienced cycles of heavier rainfall 8,000 years ago, supporting diverse plant and animal life.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is Badiyat Al-Sham, and where is it located?

<p>Badiyat Al-Sham is a desert and steppe region located in the northern Arabian Peninsula.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What geological feature primarily covers Badiyat Al-Sham?

<p>Badiyat Al-Sham is primarily covered by basalt rocks from lava flows.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What area does Badiyat Al-Sham extend between?

<p>Badiyat Al-Sham extends between the desert of Al-Nufud and the Euphrates River.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Arabian World Regions

The Arabian world geographically includes 22 countries, divided into the larger African region and the smaller Asian region.

Arab World Regional Divisions

The Arabian world, based on UN regional divisions, belongs to four main regions: West Asia, North Africa, Western Africa, and Eastern Africa.

Landforms

Landforms are natural physical features on Earth's surface. Examples include plateaus, mountains, valleys, and plains.

Landform Creation

Landforms like mountains, valleys, and plains are formed by natural forces of wind, water, and ice, as well as the movement of Earth's plates.

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Landscapes

A collection of landforms in a specific area is known as a landscape.

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Arab World Deserts

Deserts cover a significant portion of the Arab world, stretching from North Africa to the Middle East.

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Arabian Climate Zones

The Arab world is characterized by its unique climate, classified into the following regions: Dry, Arid, Cold, and Hot.

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Geographical Extremities in the Arab World

Jabal Toubkal in Moroccois the highest point in the Arab World, while the Dead Sea in Jordan holds the title of the lowest point.

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What is the Sahara Desert?

A region in North Africa known for its extreme heat. It holds the world record for the highest temperature ever recorded.

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What are the two main climates of the Sahara Desert?

The Sahara Desert experiences two main climates: a dry subtropical climate in the north and a dry tropical climate in the south.

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What types of plants can be found in the Sahara Desert?

The Sahara Desert is home to diverse plant life including grasses, shrubs, and trees like cypress, olive, oleander, and date palm.

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What are some mammals that live in the Sahara Desert?

The Sahara Desert boasts a variety of mammal species like gerbils, jerboas, gazelles, hyenas, and foxes.

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What types of birds can be found in the Sahara Desert?

The Sahara Desert has many species of migratory birds, including ostriches, raptors, and secretary birds.

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What is Badiyat Al-Sham?

Badiyat Al-Sham is a large region in the Middle East characterized by a mix of desert and steppe landscapes.

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Where is Badiyat Al-Sham located?

The Badiyat Al-Sham region spans across Jordan, Syria, Saudi Arabia, and western Iraq.

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Why is Badiyat Al-Sham sometimes called the Greater Badiyat al-Sham?

Badiyat Al-Sham is also known as the Greater Badiyat al-Sham due to its vast size, extending between the Al-Nufud desert and the Euphrates River.

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Badiyat Al-Sham

A large, flat, and mostly barren area with little vegetation, primarily consisting of stony and sandy plains.

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Climate of Badiyat Al-Sham

The climate of Badiyat Al-Sham is extremely arid, with minimal rainfall and substantial temperature variations between day and night, as well as summer and winter.

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Oasis

An area of lush vegetation and water in a desert environment. These are crucial for trade and travel routes in arid areas.

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Palmyra (Tadmur)

A famous oasis in the heart of the Syrian Desert, historically a vital caravan city connecting Iraq and the Levant, known for its hot springs and its importance in trade.

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Azraq Oasis

A unique wetland oasis in the northeastern part of Jordan, a traditional caravan stop and the only permanent, natural wetland in the Jordanian desert, playing a critical role in groundwater recharging.

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Importance of Palmyra

The historical significance of Palmyra is highlighted by its association with Queen Zenobia and its nickname "The Bride of the Desert."

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Caravan City

A caravan city is a town or settlement located along trade routes in desert areas, serving as a resting place for travelers and a hub for commerce.

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Al-Sham

This term refers to the region comprising modern day Syria, Lebanon, Palestine and Jordan.

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What is the Ghouta Oasis?

The Ghouta Oasis, also known as Damascus Ghouta, is a fertile agricultural region surrounding Damascus, in the south and east. It has been a source of food and sustenance for thousands of years, providing a variety of cereals, vegetables, and fruits.

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Why is the Ghouta Oasis shrinking?

Due to the rapid expansion of housing and industry in Damascus, the Ghouta Oasis has been shrinking in size.

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What is a valley?

A valley is a low-lying area between hills or mountains, often with a river or stream flowing through it.

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How are valleys formed?

Valleys are formed by erosion, the gradual wearing down of land by wind, water, and other natural forces.

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Why are valleys important for humans?

Valleys are important to human development because they are often located near rivers, which provide essential resources such as water and fertile land.

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What is special about Badiyat Al-Sham?

Badiyat Al-Sham is a desert region where only animals adapted to arid conditions, such as camels, horses, wolves, and gazelles, can survive.

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What is the main threat to Badiyat Al-Sham's animals?

Many desert animals in Badiyat Al-Sham have become extinct due to hunting and habitat destruction.

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What are some conservation efforts in Badiyat Al-Sham?

Efforts to protect some endangered species, such as the Oryx and sand gazelle, are underway in Badiyat Al-Sham through reintroduction programs and wildlife reserves.

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Tell Atlas Mountains

A long mountain range extending across North Africa (Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia), running parallel to the Mediterranean coast.

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Plain

A flat and broad land surface, generally lower than surrounding areas, often found near coastlines or inland.

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Mediterranean Coastal Plains

Plains located near the Mediterranean Sea, often with fertile soil and coastal features.

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Flood Plain

A type of plain formed from accumulated sediment, usually found along rivers, where flooding deposits soil.

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Inland Plains

Plains situated away from coastlines and often located inland, characterized by specific features based on their location.

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Coastal Plain of Syria

A narrow, fertile coastal plain along the western side of Syria, stretching from the Turkish border south to Lebanon.

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Volcanic Plains

A specific type of plain associated with volcanic activity, often characterized by basalt rock and distinctive soil.

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Desert Plains

Plains in the Arab World that experience seasonal winds and shifting sands, creating a unique desert landscape.

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Coastal Plains

Low-lying areas along coastlines that are formed by the deposition of sediments carried by rivers or coastal currents.

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Egypt Flood Plain

A fertile plain in Egypt, formed by the Nile River's annual flooding and deposition of rich sediment.

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Blue Nile

One of the Nile River's main tributaries, originating in Ethiopia and known for its high sediment load.

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River Delta

A geographical feature that marks the end of a river, often characterized by a network of distributaries and fertile land.

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Nile in Egypt

The section of the Nile River in Egypt, encompassing both the Nile Valley and the Nile Delta.

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Nile Valley

The region along the Nile River in Egypt, characterized by fertile land and settlements.

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Nile Delta

The lower portion of the Nile River, where it branches out into multiple distributaries before emptying into the Mediterranean Sea.

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Study Notes

Geographical Terrains in the Arab World

  • Terrain is a type of land
  • The Arab world has various terrains
  • Terrains can be divided into three types: Huge Arid Desert, fertile south and north, and High Mountains
  • This chapter focuses on the main geographical terrains in the Arab World along with some examples of each.

Geography of the Arab League

  • The Arab world comprises 22 states and territories of the Arab League

  • Stretching from the Atlantic Ocean to the Arabian Sea

  • Extending from the Mediterranean Sea to the Horn of Africa and the Indian Ocean

  • The Arab League is a regional organization with 22 countries in western Asia and northern Africa

  • Its members are primarily Arabic speakers

  • The headquarters is in Cairo, Egypt

Regions

  • The Arab League can be divided into two main geographical regions: the Asian part (12 states) and the larger African part (10 states)
  • These states are further divided into four regions by the UN:
    • West Asia: Bahrain, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Palestine, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, the UAE, and Yemen.
    • Northern Africa: Algeria, Egypt, Libya, Morocco, Sudan (North Sudan & South Sudan), and Tunisia.
    • Western Africa: Mauritania
    • Eastern Africa: Comoros, Djibouti, and Somalia

Landforms

  • Landforms are natural physical features on Earth's surface: Mountains, valleys, plateaus, and plains.
  • Generated by forces like wind, water, and ice, or Earth's plate movement.
  • 80% of the Arab world is covered in desert

Climate

  • The Arab League has several climate regions:
    • Arid: high evaporation, excessive heat, low rainfall and low precipitation. (covers roughly 80% of the region)
    • Semi-arid: intermediate between arid and humid climates.
    • Moderate Mediterranean: rainy season during autumn and winter, mild winters and hot summers
    • Tropical Wet: Rainfall during summer, dry winters.

The Sahara Desert

  • One of the world's largest deserts

  • Covering roughly 9 million square kilometers

  • Located in Northern Africa

  • Main Characteristics: -receives very little precipitation throughout the year -Climate is very hot and dry

    • Little evaporation in the atmosphere to block sunlight
  • The area contains diverse vegetation and animals adapted for the harsh environment

Badiyat Al-Sham

  • Also known as The Greater Badiyat al-Sham (Badiyat al-Sham al-Kubra)
  • A combination of desert and steppe
  • Mostly covered by basalt rocks from lava flows
  • Located between the desert of Al-Nufud on the Arabian Peninsula and the Euphrates River.

Palmyra (Tadmur)

  • An oasis in the Syrian Desert
  • Located near a hot spring (Afqa)
  • Crucial caravan city for travelers traversing the Syrian Desert

Azraq Oasis

  • A unique wetland oasis in northeastern Jordan
  • Only permanent natural wetland in Jordanian desert
  • Four main springs providing water
  • Diverse biodiversity, flocks of birds visit during migration

Al-Ghouta Oasis

  • Located in a green agricultural belt surrounding Damascus
  • Long history of providing food for the city
  • Facing challenges of expansion of housing and industry

Major Valleys

  • Valleys are depressions in Earth's surface often occupied by river or streams
  • Formed by erosion
  • Jordan rift valley: linear shaped lowland, largest rift valley worldwide, situated in East Africa
  • The Nile Valley: V-shaped canyon running 660 miles with 4,250 square miles floodplain
  • Rich in silt from flood waters, which makes land in the valley fertile for agriculture.

The Importance of Mountains

  • Mountains are elevated landforms with steep sides and ridges
  • Mountain ranges are long chains of mountains
  • Mountains are ecosystem centers—unique biodiversity
  • Source of rivers; crucial for water supply as they collect and store rainwater/snow
  • Important for settlements, agriculture, and industries
  • Important economic use; wood, charcoal, timber, export.

The Atlas Mountains

  • Mountain range in Africa

  • Running through Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia, rich in minerals, lead, zinc, iron, manganese, gold

  • The Atlas Mountains contain various elevations and three regions

  • The Moroccan area includes the Middle Atlas, High Atlas, and Anti-Atlas regions

  • Further divided into the Saharan and Tell Atlas regions.

Major Plains

  • Plains are broad, flat surfaces
  • Types of plains include:
    • Mediterranean Coastal Plains (located along the Mediterranean Sea): fertile coastal areas
    • Floodplains (formed by rivers): deposited by floodwaters; e.g., The Nile Valley and Delta.
  • Egypt Floodplain, or The Nile Valley and Delta: One of the largest and most fertile floodplains in the world.

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This quiz delves into the geography of the Arab World, focusing on coastal plains, river systems, and significant mountain ranges. Test your knowledge on the geographical features and regions related to the Arab League, including the Nile River and the Tell Atlas mountain chain. Learn about the importance of these landforms and their ecological significance.

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