Physical Geography of Europe

Flashcards covering key concepts in the physical geography of Europe.

What are the characteristics of the Marine West Coast climate?

Warm summers with cool, wet winters.

What climate is characterized by hot and dry summers and mild, rainy winters?

Mediterranean climate.

What is the unique feature of the Humid Continental climate?

Summers range from wet to hot, and winters are very cold and snowy.

Which climate has short, cool summers and long, cold, snowy winters?

Arctic Climate.

What geographical characteristic defines a Peninsula?

A piece of land almost surrounded by water or projecting out into a body of water.

What is a glacier?

A large mass of ice moving slowly downhill.

Which mountain range forms the conventional boundary between Europe and Asia?

Ural Mountains.

What is a fjord?

A long, narrow inlet with steep sides or cliffs, formed when a glacier retreats.

What are dikes used for?

To prevent flooding from the sea.

Which mountain range is the highest and most extensive in Europe?

The Alps.

What is the significance of meltwater from glaciers in Iceland?

It provides hydroelectric power.

What notable feature occurs due to the Mid-Atlantic Rift in Iceland?

There is a volcanic eruption roughly every 4 years.

What is a polder?

A piece of low-lying land reclaimed from the sea or a river and protected by dikes.

Which countries make up the lowlands in Europe?

Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg.

What environmental threat do soft rock coasts in Great Britain face?

Coastal erosion.

What is the significance of the Carpathian Mountains?

They provide a habitat for brown bears, wolves, chamois, and lynxes.

What is the approximate length of the Alps?

750 miles.

What is unique about the Barents Sea?

It is part of the Arctic Ocean and has seen a large reduction in sea ice due to global warming.

What are navigable rivers in Europe?

Rivers that boats and ships can easily travel on.

What European river is 820 miles long and runs through 10 countries?

The Rhine River.

What type of terrain characterizes the Central Uplands of Europe?

Dense forests, dairy farming, and cattle ranching.