Unit 4 Latin America The Physical Geography of

Unit 4: Latin America The Physical Geography of Latin America Part-1

Content Vocabulary • Codillera • altiplano • Escarpment • llano • pampas • hydroelectric power

Important Geographical Features A. Andes B. Mexican Plateau C. Mato Grosso Plateau D. Brazilian Highlands E. Amazon River F. Río de la Plata G. Rio Grande

Check-In Latin America is divided into how many sub-regions? A. Two B. Three C. Four D. Six A. B. C. D. A B C D

Land Forms Latin America’s rugged landscape has affected settlement of the region. • Mountains form the most distinctive landforms in Latin America. – Sierra Madre – Central Highlands – The Andes • Lowlands and plains – coastal lowland – the llanos – the pampas

Check-In What is the name of the world’s longest and highest mountain chain? A. Highlands of Brazil B. Andes C. Himalayans D. Sierra Madres A. B. C. D. A B C D

Water Systems Latin America’s waterways provide a vital link among the region’s countries. • Important waterways include: – Amazon River – Río de la Plata – Rio Grande – Panama Canal

Figure 3

Natural Resources Latin America has abundant natural resources but faces obstacles to development. • Some Latin American countries are among the world’s leading producers of energy and mineral resources.