Tools of Geography
What tool layers and analyzes geographic data?
GIS
What are Earth’s four major spheres?
Lithosphere, Hydrosphere, Atmosphere, Biosphere
What happens during an equinox?
The sun is directly overhead the equator
What is a culture hearth?
An early center of civilization where ideas and innovations spread
What system divides authority between national and regional governments?
Federal system
What tool shows Earth most accurately but isn’t practical for daily use?
Globe
What process moves weathered rock and soil?
Erosion
Which side of a mountain is dry because of the rain shadow effect?
Leeward side
What does the demographic transition model show?
Changes in birth and death rates as societies develop
What economy is based on custom and tradition?
Traditional economy
What kind of map projection distorts distance and shape?
Any flat map (all map projections cause distortion)
What is permanently frozen ground in high-latitude regions?
Permafrost
What type of region receives the most direct sunlight?
Low latitudes (the tropics)
What does doubling time measure?
The number of years it takes for a population to double
What economy combines government regulation and free markets?
Mixed economy
What line divides the Earth into the Northern and Southern Hemispheres?
The Equator
What process forms mountains through tectonic activity?
Plate tectonics (accretion, subduction, or uplift)
What gas contributes most to the greenhouse effect?
Carbon dioxide (CO₂)
How does migration affect cultures?
It spreads ideas and mixes traditions, creating diversity
What type of government is ruled by religious leaders?
Theocracy
What is the shortest distance between two points on Earth’s surface?
Great Circle Route
What factor most influences an area’s climate?
Latitude and elevation
What powers the water cycle?
The Sun’s energy
What problem can rapid population growth cause?
Resource shortages or environmental strain
What kind of government gives all power to one central authority?
Unitary system