Tools of Geography
Earth’s Physical Systems
Climate & Environment
Culture & Population
Government & Economy
1

What tool layers and analyzes geographic data?

GIS

1

What are Earth’s four major spheres?

Lithosphere, Hydrosphere, Atmosphere, Biosphere

1

What happens during an equinox?

The sun is directly overhead the equator

1

What is a culture hearth?

An early center of civilization where ideas and innovations spread

1

What system divides authority between national and regional governments?

Federal system

2

What tool shows Earth most accurately but isn’t practical for daily use?

Globe

2

What process moves weathered rock and soil?

Erosion

2

Which side of a mountain is dry because of the rain shadow effect?

Leeward side

2

What does the demographic transition model show?

Changes in birth and death rates as societies develop

2

What economy is based on custom and tradition?

Traditional economy

3

What kind of map projection distorts distance and shape?

Any flat map (all map projections cause distortion)

3

What is permanently frozen ground in high-latitude regions?

Permafrost

3

What type of region receives the most direct sunlight?

Low latitudes (the tropics)

3

What does doubling time measure?

The number of years it takes for a population to double

3

What economy combines government regulation and free markets?

Mixed economy

4

What line divides the Earth into the Northern and Southern Hemispheres?

The Equator

4

What process forms mountains through tectonic activity?

Plate tectonics (accretion, subduction, or uplift)

4

What gas contributes most to the greenhouse effect?

Carbon dioxide (CO₂)

4

How does migration affect cultures?

It spreads ideas and mixes traditions, creating diversity

4

What type of government is ruled by religious leaders?

Theocracy

5

What is the shortest distance between two points on Earth’s surface?

Great Circle Route

5

What factor most influences an area’s climate?

Latitude and elevation

5

What powers the water cycle?

The Sun’s energy

5

What problem can rapid population growth cause?

Resource shortages or environmental strain

5

What kind of government gives all power to one central authority?

Unitary system

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