Lesson 1: Global Landform Overview
Video Lesson
Competencies
At the end of this section, you will be able to
- Explain the formations of major landforms of the world.
- Locate the major landforms of Africa.
- Explain the spatial variations in the distribution of major landforms in Africa.
Brainstorming Questions
- How do major and minor landforms occur?
- What important landform features can you identify from specific examples?
- Why is it important to study landforms?
Key Terms
- Geological Processes
- Spatial Variations
- Peninsulas
- Isthmuses
Geological Processes in geography refer to the natural physical and chemical processes that shape the Earth’s surface and interior over time.
Spatial Variations refer to differences or changes in the distribution of a phenomenon, process, or characteristic across physical space.
a peninsula is a piece of land that is surrounded by water on three sides but connected to the mainland on one side.
isthmus is a narrow strip of land that connects two larger landmasses and is surrounded by water on two sides.
1.1 Global Landform Overview
Landforms such as mountains, plateaus, plains, and minor features like hills and valleys shape the Earth’s surface through geological processes like tectonic movements, volcanic activities, and erosion by water and wind over millions of years.
Africa displays diverse landforms including mountains like the Atlas Mountains, plateaus such as the Ethiopian Highlands, and vast plains like the Sahara Desert. These landforms contribute to the continent’s unique geography and environmental diversity
Oceans and Coastal Features – Oceans influence coastal land formations like islands, peninsulas, and isthmuses. The Pacific Ocean, being the largest and deepest, plays a significant role in shaping global coastal landscapes.
I. Mountains
Mountains are prominent features formed through tectonic collisions (e.g., Himalayas) or volcanic activity (e.g., Mount Kilimanjaro), affecting climate and biodiversity.
II. Plains
Extensive flat lands, such as the Great Plains of North America, support agriculture and urbanization due to their fertile soils and ease of access.
III. Plateaus
Raised flat lands like the Deccan Plateau in India are formed by volcanic eruptions, offering strategic advantages for settlements and agriculture.