Geography of the Caribbean Flashcards

Geography of the Caribbean

• Cay: Refers to a small, low island formed of coral or sand, also known as a key.
• Coral Islands: Formed by the limestone skeletons of marine animals.
• Trade Winds: Steady air currents located between 30° north and south latitude and the equator, critical for sailing routes.
• West Indies: Another name for the Caribbean region, emphasizing historical and geographical significance.
• Composition of Islands: The Caribbean consists of three primary island groups: Greater Antilles, Lesser Antilles, and the Bahamas.

Greater Antilles

• Largest Island Group: Comprises Cuba, Jamaica, Hispaniola (Haiti and Dominican Republic), and Puerto Rico.
• Cuba: The largest island in the group, covering 40,543 sq miles (105,006 sq km).
• Historical Significance: Strategically important due to proximity to the United States; served as key stopovers for maritime trade between Europe and the Americas.

Lesser Antilles

• Archipelago Structure: An arching series of islands separating the Caribbean Sea from the Atlantic Ocean.
• Geographical Division: Split into Windward Islands (southeastern islands affected by trade winds) and Leeward Islands (protected from winds).
• Examples: Windward Islands include Dominica, Martinique, St. Lucia, St. Vincent, and Grenada; Leeward Islands include Antigua, Barbuda, and the Virgin Islands.

The Bahamas

• Geographical Overview: An archipelago of around 700 islands and 200 cays between Florida and Cuba, with only 30 inhabited.
• Tourism Appeal: Noted for stunning beaches and a pleasant climate, making it a popular tourist destination.

Climate and Natural Hazards

• Tropical Climate: Most Caribbean islands experience a tropical climate influenced by trade winds.
• Natural Threats: Hurricanes and volcanic eruptions pose significant risks to the region.

Key Country Details

• Cuba: Largest Caribbean country, located about 100 miles (145 km) south of Florida; characterized by flat plains and mountainous regions; experiences droughts and hurricanes.
• Jamaica: South of Cuba, smaller than Connecticut, predominantly mountainous with rich mineral deposits; vulnerable to seasonal hurricanes.
• Martinique: A mountainous island in the Windward group, noted for scenic beauty but prone to natural hazards like hurricanes and volcanic eruptions.
• Montserrat: Volcanic within the Leeward Islands; characterized by a lack of resources and threats from volcanic activity.
• Bahamas: Features low-lying coral landscapes, suffering frequent hurricane damage.

Valuable Resources of the Caribbean

• Natural Resources: Beaches, climate, and marine waters are the most valuable resources, driving tourism and local economies.
• Environmental Challenges: Frequent hurricanes and tropical storms create challenges for infrastructure and recovery efforts.