Introduction to Geography Vocab

Human Geography

The study of how humans interact with each other and how they affect and are affected by the earth and environment.

Physical Geography

The study of the earth's natural world, such as landforms, climate, etc.

Latitude

The position north or south of the Equator measured in degrees.

Longitude

The position east or west of the Prime Meridian

Map projection

A way of representing Earth on a flat surface.

Cardinal directions

The four main directions on a compass rose: north, south, east, and west.

Boundaries

A real or imaginary line that separates different regions or areas of Earth's surface. Can be physical (mountain ranges, valleys, rivers, etc.) or created by human decisions, like the political boundaries of countries.

Landform

A natural feature of Earth's surface such as a valley, plain, or mountain.

Climate

The average weather conditions in an area over a long period of time.

Ecosystem

Group of plants and animals that depend on each other and their environment for survival.

Natural resource

Useful material found in the environment.

Migration

Movement of people from one place to another.

Government

A group of people who have the power to make and enforce laws for a country or area.

Economy

A system for producing and distributing goods, and services to fulfill people's wants and needs.

Culture

Beliefs, customs, and traditions of a specific group of people.

Society

A group of people with a shared culture who have organized themselves to meet their basic needs.