South America Climate, Natural Vegetation and Wildlife Question and Answer | ICSE Class 7

A. Tick the correct answers:

1. The (Peru / Brazil) current influences the climate of the east coast of South America.
   Ans: Peru
   
2. The La Plata region experiences (warm / cool) temperate climate.
   Ans: Warm
   
3. The grasslands in the Brazilian Highlands are called (Llanos / Campos).
   Ans: Campos
   
4. (Chile / Suriname) has Mediterranean forests.
   Ans: Chile
   
5. Rhea is a type of (Bird / Reptile).
   Ans: Bird
   

B. Fill in the blanks:

1. Tropical climate: Found in the Amazon Basin, characterized by high temperatures and heavy rainfall throughout the year.
   
2. Desert climate: Found in the Atacama Desert, characterized by extremely dry conditions and minimal rainfall.
   
3. Warm temperate forest: Found in parts of Argentina and Chile, characterized by moderate rainfall and mild winters.
   
4. Temperate grasslands: Found in the Pampas of Argentina, characterized by vast grassy plains with moderate rainfall.
   
5. Mountain vegetation: Found in the Andes Mountains, where vegetation varies from dense forests at lower altitudes to alpine vegetation at higher altitudes.
   

C. Give reasons for the following:

1. The southern part of South America experiences a mild climate.
   
   Ans: The southern part of South America has a mild climate due to its proximity to the oceans and the influence of westerly winds. The cold Falkland Current also helps to moderate temperatures. Additionally, the region experiences lesser solar radiation due to its latitude, leading to cool summers and mild winters.
   
2. In an equatorial rainforest, the forest floor is damp.
   
   Ans: The equatorial rainforest receives heavy rainfall throughout the year, leading to high humidity and constant moisture on the forest floor. The dense canopy blocks sunlight, preventing quick evaporation, which keeps the ground wet and damp.
   

Look at the essay on Air Pollution

Also, look for the Study Guide of Essential Features of Map

D. Answer the following questions:

1. Name the factors which influence the climate of South America.
   
   Ans: The climate of South America is influenced by:
   
   • Latitude – The continent extends from the equator to the temperate zone, affecting temperature variations.
     
   • Ocean currents – The Peru Current (cold) and Brazil Current (warm) affect coastal temperatures.
     
   • Altitude – The Andes Mountains create variations in temperature and precipitation.
     
   • Winds – Trade winds and westerlies influence rainfall and temperature.
     
2. Write a short note on the distribution of rainfall in South America.
   
   Ans: Rainfall distribution in South America varies:
   
   • The Amazon Basin receives heavy rainfall throughout the year due to its equatorial location.
     
   • The eastern coastal areas experience moderate rainfall due to moist winds from the Atlantic Ocean.
     
   • The Atacama Desert is one of the driest places on Earth, receiving almost no rainfall due to the rain shadow effect of the Andes.
     
   • The Pampas and southern regions receive moderate rainfall, supporting grasslands and agriculture.
     
3. What are the characteristics of the equatorial and cool temperate climates?
   
   Ans:
   
   • Equatorial Climate: Found in the Amazon Basin, characterized by hot temperatures, high humidity, and heavy rainfall throughout the year.
     
   • Cool Temperate Climate: Found in southern Chile and Argentina, characterized by moderate rainfall, cool summers, and mild winters.
     
4. Name the countries where equatorial rainforests are found. What is the other name given to this forest?
   
   Ans: Equatorial rainforests are found in Brazil, Colombia, Venezuela, Ecuador, and Peru. These forests are also known as Selvas.
   
5. Distinguish between Llanos and Campos.
   

6. 
   Name the trees found in the Mediterranean forest.
   
   Ans: The Mediterranean forests of Chile have trees like Cork Oak, Olive, Eucalyptus, and Pine.
   
7. Name the animals found in South America.
   
   Ans: Some of the animals found in South America include:
   
   • Jaguar (Amazon rainforest)
     
   • Llama (Andes Mountains)
     
   • Anaconda (Amazon Basin)
     
   • Rhea (grasslands)
     
   • Piranha (Amazon River)