North America

Definition

North America is a continent located in the Northern Hemisphere, bordered by the Arctic Ocean to the north, the Atlantic Ocean to the east, and the Pacific Ocean to the west. It is characterized by a diverse range of landscapes, climates, and cultures, making it a significant region in global geography. The continent includes countries such as the United States, Canada, and Mexico, each contributing to the region's economic, political, and cultural dynamics.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. North America covers approximately 24.7 million square kilometers, making it the third largest continent in the world.
2. The continent is home to diverse climates, from arctic conditions in northern Canada to tropical weather in southern Mexico.
3. North America features a variety of geographical landmarks, including mountain ranges like the Rockies and the Appalachian Mountains.
4. The United States, Canada, and Mexico are part of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), which facilitates trade between these countries.
5. Indigenous cultures have played an important role in shaping North America's history, contributing significantly to its cultural landscape before European colonization.

Review Questions

• Compare and contrast the geographical features of North America with another continent, highlighting their significance.
  • When comparing North America with South America, one notable difference is in their geographical features. North America has a mix of mountain ranges like the Rockies and extensive flat regions such as the Great Plains, while South America is dominated by the Andes Mountains. This contrast affects climate patterns, biodiversity, and human activities. For instance, the varied terrains of North America support agriculture in its plains but also provide vast resources in mountainous areas.
• Evaluate how the economic ties between Canada, the United States, and Mexico have evolved over time and their impact on North America's global standing.
  • Economic ties among Canada, the United States, and Mexico have evolved significantly since the establishment of NAFTA in 1994. This agreement increased trade and investment across borders, fostering stronger economic integration. As a result, North America has become one of the world's largest trading blocs. The interdependence has bolstered each country's economy while also raising concerns about labor practices and environmental standards.
• Synthesize information about how climate change is affecting North America's diverse ecosystems and what this means for future conservation efforts.
  • Climate change poses a significant threat to North America's diverse ecosystems by altering weather patterns, increasing the frequency of extreme weather events, and affecting wildlife habitats. For instance, rising temperatures are impacting Arctic regions, leading to melting ice and affecting species like polar bears. Conservation efforts must adapt to these changes by focusing on resilience strategies that can support biodiversity while addressing human activities that contribute to climate change. The future of these ecosystems will depend on collaborative efforts among countries to mitigate impacts and preserve natural resources.

Related terms

Continental Divide: A natural boundary that separates river systems flowing toward opposite sides of a continent, particularly significant in North America for its impact on water flow and ecosystem diversity.

Great Plains: A vast area of flat land that stretches across North America, known for its agriculture and as a significant region for both wildlife and human settlement.

Biodiversity: The variety of life found in North America, which includes a wide range of ecosystems from deserts to forests, supporting numerous plant and animal species.