This document provides information about Australia's physical geography in 3 paragraphs. [1] It notes that Australia is the 6th largest country by area, very flat and dry due to long geological stability and weathering. [2] It explains that Australia's location in the center of its tectonic plate and lack of orographic rainfall contribute to its dry climate. [3] It discusses how the prevailing winds and ocean currents further reduce rainfall, and how this physical geography profoundly impacts Australia's environments, populations, agriculture, and more.
5. Australia has remained geologically
unchanged for a very long time (around 3
billion years)
Long exposure to weathering and erosion.
Topography flattened
6. Tectonic/Volcanic Factors
Australia is located in the middle of the
Australian Plate
Tectonic movements or uplift has not
created significant mountains.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tzt_EBD3DDQ
12. Prevailing Winds and Ocean
Currents
Prevailing winds come from the South
West.
These pass over cold ocean currents, which
do not allow for evaporation.
Low precipitation
13.
14. What does all this mean?
The physical geography has a monumental
effect on the natural and human
environment. Provide some examples?
- The environments that exist
- Flora and fauna
- Inhabitability, distribution of people, location of
cities
- Land use and agriculture
Russia, Canada, China, USA, Brazil, AustraliaSee p 9 Aust Explorations (text) for size comparison to US, EuropePopulation density Aust = 2.9 p/km2 3rd lowest (Mongolia, Namibia) http://www.worldatlas.com/aatlas/populations/ctypopls.htm
Pause for student responses? (Hay plain)
Can explain processes of weathering and erosion…
Animation on mountain building
Australia in middle of plate
Explain + students to draw diagram
Draw simple diagram + students to copy
Confluence Project?Share some stories about your own personal interaction with Australia’s physical environment?