geography flash cards

What is geography?

The systematic study of where things are located and how they relate to one another, including both physical and human aspects.

Time-Space-Scale

The three most important concepts in geography that refer to the relationship of time, spatial dimensions, and the scale of analysis.

What does 'universal history' imply?

It suggests that significant events, like the Civil War, have historical roots and effects that extend far before and after the event itself.

Latitude

Lines that run east and west, measuring angular distance north and south of the equator.

Longitude

Lines that run north and south, measuring angular distance east and west from the Prime Meridian.

Climate Classification

A system developed by Wladimir Koppen to categorize climate zones based on temperature and moisture criteria.

What is the Mahomet Aquifer?

A clay-based aquifer located between Illinois and Indiana, crucial for water supply.

Desertification

The process in which fertile land becomes desert typically as a result of drought, deforestation, or inappropriate agriculture.

What is the significance of the International Date Line?

It serves as the demarcation line for calendar days, where the date changes when crossed.

Significance of John Snow in geography

He utilized geographic methods to trace the source of a cholera outbreak through mapping cases around contaminated water.

What is Virtual Water?

The total volume of water used to produce a commodity, including the water used in its production processes.

Over irrigation

Excessive use of water for agricultural purposes, leading to waste and depletion of water resources.

What are 'forever chemicals'?

Chemicals like PFAS that are persistent in the environment and human body, often linked to health risks.

What is the Dust Bowl?

A period during the 1930s when severe soil erosion affected many agricultural areas in the U.S., exacerbated by bad farming practices.

What does climate change impact globally?

It affects migration patterns, food security, water resources, and creates challenges for survival.

Positive feedback in climate systems

Processes that amplify the effects of climate change, often leading to uncontrollable changes.

Negative feedback systems

Processes that help to stabilize or regulate climate conditions, acting to counteract changes.

In what way do maps serve geographers?

Maps provide visual representations of spatial information, essential for understanding geographic phenomena.

World Regional Geography

The study of how different regions influence one another and interact on a global scale.

What is the main cause of climate change?

The accumulation of carbon emissions due to human activities such as burning fossil fuels.

Slash-and-burn agriculture

A method of agriculture that involves cutting and burning trees and vegetation to clear land for cultivation, which can increase carbon in the atmosphere.

What does 'universal geography' refer to?

The integration of geographic principles with historical contexts to understand the interrelation of places and events.

What is a social program developed by Purdue University?

The Four H initiative focusing on Heart, Hand, Head, and Health for community development.

How does climate classification relate to food production?

The type of climate affects what crops can be grown, which influences food availability and agricultural practices.

What historical context is associated with Marco Polo?

He is noted for bringing elements of Chinese culture back to Europe but is criticized for appropriation of cultural elements.

How has climate change modified water sources in the southwest United States?

It has led to water shortages due to increased demand from overpopulation and agricultural needs.

What do geographers use repeat photography for?

To visually document changes in environments, such as the growth and retraction of glaciers.