Geography Key Terms Test - Fragile Environments

Deforestation

the action of clearing a wide area of trees which can lead to habitat loss, soil erosion, and climate change.

desertification

the process by which fertile land becomes increasingly arid and unproductive, often as a result of drought, deforestation, or inappropriate agricultural practices.

over grazing

the excessive grazing of livestock on land, which can lead to soil degradation, loss of vegetation, and desertification.

over cultivation

the practice of repeatedly planting crops on the same land, which can deplete soil nutrients and lead to reduced agricultural productivity.

soil erosion

the removal of the top layer of soil due to water, wind, or human activity, leading to decreased soil fertility and increased sedimentation in waterways.

climate refugee

a person forced to leave their home due to climate-related events, such as rising sea levels or extreme weather.

transpiration

the process by which water is absorbed by plants and released as water vapor into the atmosphere.

albedo

the measure of reflectivity of a surface, indicating how much sunlight is reflected back into the atmosphere.

air subsidence

the downward movement of air caused by cooling or high pressure, often leading to clear skies and dry conditions.

great green wall

an African-led initiative aimed at combating desertification and restoring 100 million hectares of land across the Sahel region.

infrastructure

the basic physical structures and facilities needed for the operation of a society, including transportation, communication, and utilities.

cattle ranching

the practice of raising cattle for meat, milk, and other products, often requiring large areas of land and impacting local ecosystems.