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With reference to two climatic types you have studied, assess the extent to which precipitation influences human activities. - AQA - A-Level Geography - Question 4 - 2022 - Paper 2
Question 4
With reference to two climatic types you have studied, assess the extent to which precipitation influences human activities.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:With reference to two climatic types you have studied, assess the extent to which precipitation influences human activities. - AQA - A-Level Geography - Question 4 - 2022 - Paper 2
Step 1
Climatic Type 1: Tropical Monsoon
Answer
Tropical monsoon climates, characterized by heavy seasonal rainfall, significantly influence agricultural practices.
Farmers in regions like India rely heavily on the monsoon season for crop cultivation, as the intense rainfall ensures adequate soil moisture. This precipitation is crucial for the growth of staple crops such as rice, which constitutes a major part of their diet.
However, the variability in monsoon rainfall can lead to either droughts or flooding, impacting food security and economic stability. For instance, insufficient rains can lead to crop failure, while excessive rainfall can destroy crops and increase the risk of disease.
Step 2
Climatic Type 2: Polar Climate
Answer
In polar climates, precipitation amounts are generally low, mainly falling as snow. The impact of this limited rainfall on human activities is evident in various ways.
Firstly, agricultural activities are severely restricted due to the cold conditions and low soil moisture. In places like Greenland, the harsh climate limits crop growth, making residents depend on imported food and fishing.
Moreover, limited precipitation affects infrastructure such as transportation and housing. Ice cover can impede travel routes and necessitate specific building designs to withstand extreme weather conditions. As a result, human habitation and activity are heavily influenced by the lack of precipitation, shaping the ways in which communities adapt and survive.