Geographical Wonders of Asia PDF

Chapter One: Geographical Wonders of Asia Chapter 1 Geographical Wonders of Asia Lesson 1: Introduction to Asia Lesson 2: Mountain Ranges in Asia Lesson 3: Asia Plateaus Lesson 1 Chapter 1: Geographical Wonders of Asia Introduction to Asi...

Chapter One: Geographical Wonders of Asia Chapter 1 Geographical Wonders of Asia Lesson 1: Introduction to Asia Lesson 2: Mountain Ranges in Asia Lesson 3: Asia Plateaus Lesson 1 Chapter 1: Geographical Wonders of Asia Introduction to Asia Asia is the largest continent on Earth, covering about 30 percent of the land and home to around 60 percent of the world’s population. It stretches from the Arctic Ocean in the north to the Pacific Ocean in the east, the Indian Ocean in the south, and to Europe in the west. Because of its size and location, Asia is very important and connects different parts of the world. Figure 1:1 Location of Asia Asia is made up of six main regions: Western Asia, Central Asia, Southern Asia, Eastern Asia, Southeastern Asia, and Northern Asia. Each of these areas has its own unique cultures, histories, and landscapes. For example, you can find deserts, mountains, and tropical forests across the continent, making it very diverse and interesting. 3 Lesson 1 Chapter 1: Geographical Wonders of Asia Figure 1:2 Regions of Asia 4 Lesson 1 Chapter 1: Geographical Wonders of Asia The continent is home to many countries, including China, India, Japan, and Afghanistan, with nearly 50 countries in total. There are also many different languages spoken in Asia. The major languages include Mandarin, Hindi, Arabic, and Russian, but in countries like India and Indonesia, there are hundreds of other languages too. This shows just how rich and varied Asian cultures are. Geographically, Asia is huge, covering about 43.8 million square kilometers (16.9 million square miles). It has the highest point in the world, Mt. Everest, at 29,029 feet (8,848 meters), and the lowest point, the Dead Sea, which is below sea level. With cities like Tokyo in Japan having over 34 million people, Asia is not only the largest but also one of the most densely populated continents in the world. Figure 1:3: Global Population by Continent 5 Lesson 2 Chapter 1: Geographical Wonders of Asia Mountain Ranges in Asia A. Overview Asia is a huge and diverse continent that has some of the tallest and most beautiful mountains in the world. From the famous Himalayas to the stunning peaks of the Karakoram, these mountains are known for their natural beauty and tough climbing paths. The biggest and most famous mountain ranges are found in Asia. B. The Himalayas The Himalayas are the highest mountain range in the world. They stretch across several countries in South Asia, such as India, Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibet (part of China). The range is about 2,400 kilometers long (1,500 miles) and has many peaks that are over 8,000 meters (26,000 feet) tall, including Mount Everest, which is the highest mountain on Earth. The Himalayas are famous for their magnificent views, rich plant and animal life, and deep cultural history. Figure 1:4: The Himalayas 6 Lesson 2 Chapter 1: Geographical Wonders of Asia C. Hindu Kush The Hindu Kush is a mountain range that stretches across Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Tajikistan. It is a part of the larger Himalayan mountain system and extends for about 800 kilometers (500 miles). The Hindu Kush is characterized by its rocky terrain and high peaks, with several summits exceeding 7,000 meters (23,000 feet). The range has played a significant role in shaping the history, culture, and trade routes of the region. Figure 1:5: Hindu Kush 7 Lesson 2 Chapter 1: Geographical Wonders of Asia D. The Ural Mountains The Ural Mountains are a mountain range that serves as a natural boundary between Europe and Asia, stretching across Russia and Kazakhstan. They extend for approximately 2,500 kilometers (1,600 miles) from the Arctic Ocean to the Ural River. While not as tall as the other mountain ranges mentioned, the Ural Mountains are an important geological feature and have significant mineral deposits. They also provide a habitat for various plant and animal species. Figure 1:6: The location of D. The Ural Mountains 8 Lesson 3 Chapter 1: Geographical Wonders of Asia Asia Plateaus A. What Is a Plateau? A plateau is a flat or gently sloping area of land that is higher than the land around it. It can be formed by different geological processes like uplifting, volcanic activity, or erosion. Plateaus can be large and often have special geographical features. 9 Lesson 2 Chapter 1: Geographical Wonders of Asia B. How Plateaus Are Formed Plateaus can form in several ways: Tectonic Uplift: When mountains form, the land in between can rise up, creating a flat surface. Volcanic Activity: Lava that spreads out and solidifies can create a flat elevated area. Wind Deposition: Wind can carry sediments that build up over time and form a plateau. Glacial Erosion: As glaciers move, they can erode land, leaving behind flat areas. 10 Lesson 3 Chapter 1: Geographical Wonders of Asia C. Major Plateaus in Asia Asia has three main plateaus: The Deccan Plateau, the Iranian Plateau, and the Tibetan Plateau. The Deccan Plateau: Found in south-central India, it is shaped like a triangle and formed from volcanic activity. It has fertile black soil and supports agriculture. The Iranian Plateau: Located in southwestern Asia, it covers about 3 million square kilometers. It has dry climates, deserts, and is rich in oil and natural gas. The Tibetan Plateau: Known as the “Roof of the World,” it is the highest and largest plateau, covering 2.5 million square kilometers. The Tibetan Plateau is the source of many major rivers in Asia, including the Indus, Ganges, Brahmaputra, Yangtze, and Yellow Rivers. 11 Lesson 3 Chapter 1: Geographical Wonders of Asia Activity: Map Skills A physical map is a representation of natural features of the earth such as mountains, plateaus, plains, rivers, or oceans. Study the map below and answer the questions. 1. What is the title of the map? 2. What is the body of water located to the west of India? 3. What are India`s landforms shown on the map? 12  TERMS AND VOCABULARY Deposits: Materials, like sand or mud, that settle at the bottom of a river or lake. Erosion: The process of wearing away rocks and soil by wind, water, or ice. Geological: Related to the study of the Earth’s shape, structure, and materials. Sediments: Small pieces of rock, soil, or living things that are moved and settled by water, wind, or ice. Terrain: The physical features or landscape of an area, including hills, valleys, and flat areas.