Unit 4: Physical Geography of Latin America

Geographers divide the region of Latin America into three subregions: South America, Middle America, and the Caribbean. Latin America has some of the most dramatic landforms in the world. The Andes are the world's longest mountain chain. Vast plains cover other areas of Latin America. Like the rest of the world, towns and cities are often founded along rivers and lakes. These water ways provide transportation routes and water resources.

Latin America is rich in natural resources such as copper, iron ore, silver, oil, and natural gas. However, political conflicts and transportation problems sometimes make it difficult to develop these resources.

Most of Latin America lies within the tropics. Farther south, the climate becomes drier and cooler. Yet climate is not determined by latitude alone. Mountain ranges and wind patterns create a variety of climate zones that affect the way people live.



 
 
 
 

            


   
          

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