Physical Geography of North Africa and Southwest Asia
North Africa and Southwest Asia are at the crossroads of Africa, Asia, and Europe. This region, also known as the Middle East, spans two continents. It has a land area roughly twice the size of the U.S. Despite its size, there is limited variety in the physical geography of this region. Most of the region has a dry climate. The terrain is primarily covered by desert and steppe. In this topic, you will explore the physical and environmental features of North Africa and Southwest Asia.
Essential Question
- What are the major physical and environmental features of North Africa and Southwest Asia?
Warm-Up
Satellite image of the Sahara in North Africa
Take a moment to think about the ways physical geography can divide areas into separate regions. Physical features like oceans, seas, mountains, rivers, and deserts can create physical barriers that divide regions. The Sahara is a massive desert in North Africa. It spans an area about the size of the United States, and limits contact between North Africans and the rest of the continent. How has this isolation influenced the people living in the Sahara region versus those who live south of it? Discuss your ideas with a coursemate.