Test: North America - Climate, Natural Vegetation and Population - UPSC MCQ

The Arctic Zone in North America experiences extremely cold winters and short, cool summers. Average winter temperatures can drop below -30°C (-22°F), while summer temperatures range from 0°C to 10°C (32°F to 50°F). The Arctic Zone is characterized by tundra vegetation, including mosses, lichens, and dwarf shrubs.

The Mediterranean Zone in North America, found in coastal regions of California and parts of Mexico, experiences mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. Winter temperatures range from 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F), while summer temperatures average between 20°C and 30°C (68°F to 86°F).

The boreal forest, also known as taiga, stretches across the northern parts of North America, primarily in Canada and Alaska. It consists mainly of coniferous trees such as spruce, fir, and pine, which are well-adapted to the cold and harsh conditions of the region. Common species include black spruce, white spruce, balsam fir, and jack pine.

The Humid Subtropical Zone is found along the southeastern coast of the United States, including Florida, Georgia, and the Gulf Coast states. It has hot, humid summers and mild, short winters. Summer temperatures range from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F), while winter temperatures average between 5°C and 15°C (41°F to 59°F). Precipitation is abundant and evenly distributed throughout the year, with a higher frequency of tropical storms and hurricanes. Vegetation in this zone includes broadleaf evergreen forests, marshes, and wetlands.

The prairies are vast grassland ecosystems that extend across the central regions of North America, primarily in the United States and Canada. They are characterized by tall grasses, such as big bluestem, little bluestem, and switchgrass. The prairies once supported immense herds of bison and played a vital role in Native American culture. However, much of this grassland has been converted to agricultural land.

The Sonoran Desert, located in the southwestern part of North America, primarily in Arizona and California, is known for its unique desert vegetation. Cacti, such as the saguaro, barrel cactus, and prickly pear, dominate the landscape. Other plants include desert shrubs like creosote bush and mesquite trees.

The temperate deciduous forest, found in the eastern and central parts of North America, is characterized by a variety of deciduous trees. Species such as oak, maple, beech, hickory, and chestnut dominate this forest type. The foliage of these trees changes color in the fall, creating a stunning display. This forest type has been significantly impacted by human activities and has undergone extensive clearing for agriculture and urbanization.

The Tropical Zone covers southern Florida, southern Texas, and parts of Hawaii in North America. It experiences a warm and humid climate throughout the year, with little seasonal variation. Average temperatures range from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F). Precipitation is high, with most rainfall occurring during the summer months. The Tropical Zone supports diverse ecosystems, including rainforests, mangrove forests, and coral reefs.

The Mojave Desert is situated in the southwestern United States, mainly in California, Nevada, and Arizona. It is characterized by sparse vegetation. Joshua trees, yuccas, creosote bush, and various types of cacti are adapted to survive in the arid conditions of this desert.

The Subarctic Zone stretches southward from the Arctic Zone and covers large portions of Canada and Alaska. It experiences a colder climate compared to other regions but milder than the Arctic Zone. Winters are long and very cold, with temperatures averaging between -20°C and -30°C (-4°F to -22°F). Summers are short and cool, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20