Asia- Physical | Oxford Student ATLAS: Maps & Tests - UPSC PDF Download

 Page 1


Asia- Physical 
 
 
 
Asia: Physical Geography 
 
Page 2


Asia- Physical 
 
 
 
Asia: Physical Geography 
 
Asia- Physical 
 
 
Introduction 
Asia, the largest continent on Earth, encompasses approximately 30 percent of 
the planet's land area and is home to over 60 percent of the world's population. 
With its diverse physical landscapes, vast mountain systems, expansive plateaus, 
wide plains and deserts, freshwater and saltwater environments, Asia boasts an 
array of natural wonders. This article delves into the physical geography of Asia, 
exploring its distinct regions and highlighting the unique flora and fauna that 
thrive in its ecosystems. 
Major Physical Regions of Asia 
Asia can be divided into five major physical regions, each with its own 
characteristics and features: 
1. Mountain Systems 
The Himalaya mountains, stretching approximately 2,500 kilometers (1,550 
miles), serve as a formidable barrier, separating the Indian subcontinent from the 
rest of Asia. These majestic mountains were formed when the Indian 
subcontinent collided with the Eurasian continent millions of years ago. The 
Himalayas continue to grow at a rate of about 5 centimeters (2 inches) per year. 
Mount Everest, the world's highest peak at 8,849 meters (29,032 feet), is part of 
this magnificent range. Another notable mountain system is the Tien Shan, 
meaning "Celestial Mountains" in Chinese, which spans about 2,400 kilometers 
(1,500 miles) and boasts impressive peaks such as Victory Peak and Khan Tängiri 
Peak. The Ural Mountains, one of the world's oldest mountain ranges, traverse 
approximately 2,500 kilometers (1,550 miles) from Russia to Kazakhstan. 
2. Plateaus 
Asia is home to several expansive plateaus that offer unique landscapes. The 
Iranian plateau, covering over 3.6 million square kilometers (1.4 million square 
miles), features diverse topography, including high mountains and low river 
basins. The Deccan Plateau, occupying the southern part of India, is characterized 
by an average elevation of about 600 meters (2,000 feet) and is flanked by the 
Satpura Range, Eastern Ghats, and Western Ghats. However, the most 
remarkable plateau in Asia is the Tibetan Plateau, often referred to as the 
Page 3


Asia- Physical 
 
 
 
Asia: Physical Geography 
 
Asia- Physical 
 
 
Introduction 
Asia, the largest continent on Earth, encompasses approximately 30 percent of 
the planet's land area and is home to over 60 percent of the world's population. 
With its diverse physical landscapes, vast mountain systems, expansive plateaus, 
wide plains and deserts, freshwater and saltwater environments, Asia boasts an 
array of natural wonders. This article delves into the physical geography of Asia, 
exploring its distinct regions and highlighting the unique flora and fauna that 
thrive in its ecosystems. 
Major Physical Regions of Asia 
Asia can be divided into five major physical regions, each with its own 
characteristics and features: 
1. Mountain Systems 
The Himalaya mountains, stretching approximately 2,500 kilometers (1,550 
miles), serve as a formidable barrier, separating the Indian subcontinent from the 
rest of Asia. These majestic mountains were formed when the Indian 
subcontinent collided with the Eurasian continent millions of years ago. The 
Himalayas continue to grow at a rate of about 5 centimeters (2 inches) per year. 
Mount Everest, the world's highest peak at 8,849 meters (29,032 feet), is part of 
this magnificent range. Another notable mountain system is the Tien Shan, 
meaning "Celestial Mountains" in Chinese, which spans about 2,400 kilometers 
(1,500 miles) and boasts impressive peaks such as Victory Peak and Khan Tängiri 
Peak. The Ural Mountains, one of the world's oldest mountain ranges, traverse 
approximately 2,500 kilometers (1,550 miles) from Russia to Kazakhstan. 
2. Plateaus 
Asia is home to several expansive plateaus that offer unique landscapes. The 
Iranian plateau, covering over 3.6 million square kilometers (1.4 million square 
miles), features diverse topography, including high mountains and low river 
basins. The Deccan Plateau, occupying the southern part of India, is characterized 
by an average elevation of about 600 meters (2,000 feet) and is flanked by the 
Satpura Range, Eastern Ghats, and Western Ghats. However, the most 
remarkable plateau in Asia is the Tibetan Plateau, often referred to as the 
Asia- Physical 
 
 
"Rooftop of the World." This enormous plateau, accounting for an area roughly 
half the size of the contiguous United States, boasts an average elevation of over 
5,000 meters (16,400 feet) and plays a crucial role in the water cycle by feeding 
Asia's largest rivers. 
3. Plains, Steppes, and Deserts 
Asia's vast expanse encompasses several noteworthy plains, steppes, and deserts. 
The West Siberian Plain, situated in central Russia, stretches over 2,400 
kilometers (1,500 miles) and features extensive flatlands, swamps, and 
floodplains. Central Asia is predominantly characterized by steppe landscapes, 
which comprise vast grasslands and transition from mountainous regions to the 
arid Gobi Desert. The Rub' al Khali desert, known as the Empty Quarter, stands 
out as the world's largest sand sea, covering an area larger than France and 
holding significant amounts of sand. 
4. Freshwater Environments 
Asia boasts remarkable freshwater environments, including captivating lakes and 
mighty rivers. Lake Baikal, located in southern Russia, is the world's deepest lake, 
reaching a depth of 1,620 meters (5,315 feet). It contains a staggering 20 percent 
of the world's unfrozen freshwater and supports unique aquatic life. The Yangtze 
River, Asia's longest river, traverses 6,300 kilometers (3,915 miles) from the 
Tibetan Plateau to the East China Sea, contributing significantly to China's 
economy and serving as a vital transportation route. The Mekong River, running 
through several countries including China, Myanmar, Laos, Thailand, Cambodia, 
and Vietnam, is another major river in Asia, supporting diverse ecosystems and 
providing crucial resources for local communities. 
5. Coastal and Marine Environments 
Asia is surrounded by vast coastlines and encompasses diverse marine 
ecosystems. The Arabian Sea, located between the Arabian Peninsula and the 
Indian subcontinent, is part of the northeastern Indian Ocean and is renowned for 
its rich marine biodiversity, including coral reefs and numerous species of fish and 
marine mammals. The East China Sea, bordered by China, Japan, and Taiwan, is 
an important fishing ground and supports various marine habitats. The Coral 
Page 4


Asia- Physical 
 
 
 
Asia: Physical Geography 
 
Asia- Physical 
 
 
Introduction 
Asia, the largest continent on Earth, encompasses approximately 30 percent of 
the planet's land area and is home to over 60 percent of the world's population. 
With its diverse physical landscapes, vast mountain systems, expansive plateaus, 
wide plains and deserts, freshwater and saltwater environments, Asia boasts an 
array of natural wonders. This article delves into the physical geography of Asia, 
exploring its distinct regions and highlighting the unique flora and fauna that 
thrive in its ecosystems. 
Major Physical Regions of Asia 
Asia can be divided into five major physical regions, each with its own 
characteristics and features: 
1. Mountain Systems 
The Himalaya mountains, stretching approximately 2,500 kilometers (1,550 
miles), serve as a formidable barrier, separating the Indian subcontinent from the 
rest of Asia. These majestic mountains were formed when the Indian 
subcontinent collided with the Eurasian continent millions of years ago. The 
Himalayas continue to grow at a rate of about 5 centimeters (2 inches) per year. 
Mount Everest, the world's highest peak at 8,849 meters (29,032 feet), is part of 
this magnificent range. Another notable mountain system is the Tien Shan, 
meaning "Celestial Mountains" in Chinese, which spans about 2,400 kilometers 
(1,500 miles) and boasts impressive peaks such as Victory Peak and Khan Tängiri 
Peak. The Ural Mountains, one of the world's oldest mountain ranges, traverse 
approximately 2,500 kilometers (1,550 miles) from Russia to Kazakhstan. 
2. Plateaus 
Asia is home to several expansive plateaus that offer unique landscapes. The 
Iranian plateau, covering over 3.6 million square kilometers (1.4 million square 
miles), features diverse topography, including high mountains and low river 
basins. The Deccan Plateau, occupying the southern part of India, is characterized 
by an average elevation of about 600 meters (2,000 feet) and is flanked by the 
Satpura Range, Eastern Ghats, and Western Ghats. However, the most 
remarkable plateau in Asia is the Tibetan Plateau, often referred to as the 
Asia- Physical 
 
 
"Rooftop of the World." This enormous plateau, accounting for an area roughly 
half the size of the contiguous United States, boasts an average elevation of over 
5,000 meters (16,400 feet) and plays a crucial role in the water cycle by feeding 
Asia's largest rivers. 
3. Plains, Steppes, and Deserts 
Asia's vast expanse encompasses several noteworthy plains, steppes, and deserts. 
The West Siberian Plain, situated in central Russia, stretches over 2,400 
kilometers (1,500 miles) and features extensive flatlands, swamps, and 
floodplains. Central Asia is predominantly characterized by steppe landscapes, 
which comprise vast grasslands and transition from mountainous regions to the 
arid Gobi Desert. The Rub' al Khali desert, known as the Empty Quarter, stands 
out as the world's largest sand sea, covering an area larger than France and 
holding significant amounts of sand. 
4. Freshwater Environments 
Asia boasts remarkable freshwater environments, including captivating lakes and 
mighty rivers. Lake Baikal, located in southern Russia, is the world's deepest lake, 
reaching a depth of 1,620 meters (5,315 feet). It contains a staggering 20 percent 
of the world's unfrozen freshwater and supports unique aquatic life. The Yangtze 
River, Asia's longest river, traverses 6,300 kilometers (3,915 miles) from the 
Tibetan Plateau to the East China Sea, contributing significantly to China's 
economy and serving as a vital transportation route. The Mekong River, running 
through several countries including China, Myanmar, Laos, Thailand, Cambodia, 
and Vietnam, is another major river in Asia, supporting diverse ecosystems and 
providing crucial resources for local communities. 
5. Coastal and Marine Environments 
Asia is surrounded by vast coastlines and encompasses diverse marine 
ecosystems. The Arabian Sea, located between the Arabian Peninsula and the 
Indian subcontinent, is part of the northeastern Indian Ocean and is renowned for 
its rich marine biodiversity, including coral reefs and numerous species of fish and 
marine mammals. The East China Sea, bordered by China, Japan, and Taiwan, is 
an important fishing ground and supports various marine habitats. The Coral 
Asia- Physical 
 
 
Triangle, situated in Southeast Asia, is a global center of marine biodiversity, 
hosting a multitude of coral reefs, fish species, and other marine organisms. 
Biodiversity in Asia 
Asia's diverse physical landscapes have contributed to the continent's remarkable 
biodiversity. Here are some notable examples of flora and fauna found in Asia: 
Flora: 
? Bamboo: Found across Asia, bamboo is a versatile plant used for 
construction, furniture, paper production, and as a food source for many 
animals. 
? Orchids: Asia is home to a wide variety of orchid species, renowned for 
their vibrant colors and intricate floral structures. 
? Rhododendrons: These colorful flowering plants are abundant in the 
Himalayas and other mountainous regions of Asia. 
? Banyan trees: Known for their aerial prop roots, banyan trees are 
widespread in Asia and play a significant role in many cultural and religious 
traditions. 
Fauna: 
? Bengal Tiger: The majestic Bengal Tiger is native to the Indian subcontinent 
and is one of the largest and most iconic big cat species in the world. 
? Giant Panda: Found primarily in China, the adorable giant panda is known 
for its distinct black-and-white fur and bamboo diet. 
? Asian Elephant: This magnificent species is distributed across several Asian 
countries and plays a vital role in maintaining forest ecosystems. 
? Snow Leopard: Thriving in the high altitudes of the Himalayas and Central 
Asia, the elusive snow leopard is perfectly adapted to its rugged habitat. 
? Komodo Dragon: Although mainly found on the Indonesian islands, 
including Komodo Island, the Komodo dragon is a fascinating and unique 
reptile that captures the imagination of many. 
These examples represent just a fraction of the incredible biodiversity found in 
Asia, emphasizing the continent's significance in global conservation efforts. 
Page 5


Asia- Physical 
 
 
 
Asia: Physical Geography 
 
Asia- Physical 
 
 
Introduction 
Asia, the largest continent on Earth, encompasses approximately 30 percent of 
the planet's land area and is home to over 60 percent of the world's population. 
With its diverse physical landscapes, vast mountain systems, expansive plateaus, 
wide plains and deserts, freshwater and saltwater environments, Asia boasts an 
array of natural wonders. This article delves into the physical geography of Asia, 
exploring its distinct regions and highlighting the unique flora and fauna that 
thrive in its ecosystems. 
Major Physical Regions of Asia 
Asia can be divided into five major physical regions, each with its own 
characteristics and features: 
1. Mountain Systems 
The Himalaya mountains, stretching approximately 2,500 kilometers (1,550 
miles), serve as a formidable barrier, separating the Indian subcontinent from the 
rest of Asia. These majestic mountains were formed when the Indian 
subcontinent collided with the Eurasian continent millions of years ago. The 
Himalayas continue to grow at a rate of about 5 centimeters (2 inches) per year. 
Mount Everest, the world's highest peak at 8,849 meters (29,032 feet), is part of 
this magnificent range. Another notable mountain system is the Tien Shan, 
meaning "Celestial Mountains" in Chinese, which spans about 2,400 kilometers 
(1,500 miles) and boasts impressive peaks such as Victory Peak and Khan Tängiri 
Peak. The Ural Mountains, one of the world's oldest mountain ranges, traverse 
approximately 2,500 kilometers (1,550 miles) from Russia to Kazakhstan. 
2. Plateaus 
Asia is home to several expansive plateaus that offer unique landscapes. The 
Iranian plateau, covering over 3.6 million square kilometers (1.4 million square 
miles), features diverse topography, including high mountains and low river 
basins. The Deccan Plateau, occupying the southern part of India, is characterized 
by an average elevation of about 600 meters (2,000 feet) and is flanked by the 
Satpura Range, Eastern Ghats, and Western Ghats. However, the most 
remarkable plateau in Asia is the Tibetan Plateau, often referred to as the 
Asia- Physical 
 
 
"Rooftop of the World." This enormous plateau, accounting for an area roughly 
half the size of the contiguous United States, boasts an average elevation of over 
5,000 meters (16,400 feet) and plays a crucial role in the water cycle by feeding 
Asia's largest rivers. 
3. Plains, Steppes, and Deserts 
Asia's vast expanse encompasses several noteworthy plains, steppes, and deserts. 
The West Siberian Plain, situated in central Russia, stretches over 2,400 
kilometers (1,500 miles) and features extensive flatlands, swamps, and 
floodplains. Central Asia is predominantly characterized by steppe landscapes, 
which comprise vast grasslands and transition from mountainous regions to the 
arid Gobi Desert. The Rub' al Khali desert, known as the Empty Quarter, stands 
out as the world's largest sand sea, covering an area larger than France and 
holding significant amounts of sand. 
4. Freshwater Environments 
Asia boasts remarkable freshwater environments, including captivating lakes and 
mighty rivers. Lake Baikal, located in southern Russia, is the world's deepest lake, 
reaching a depth of 1,620 meters (5,315 feet). It contains a staggering 20 percent 
of the world's unfrozen freshwater and supports unique aquatic life. The Yangtze 
River, Asia's longest river, traverses 6,300 kilometers (3,915 miles) from the 
Tibetan Plateau to the East China Sea, contributing significantly to China's 
economy and serving as a vital transportation route. The Mekong River, running 
through several countries including China, Myanmar, Laos, Thailand, Cambodia, 
and Vietnam, is another major river in Asia, supporting diverse ecosystems and 
providing crucial resources for local communities. 
5. Coastal and Marine Environments 
Asia is surrounded by vast coastlines and encompasses diverse marine 
ecosystems. The Arabian Sea, located between the Arabian Peninsula and the 
Indian subcontinent, is part of the northeastern Indian Ocean and is renowned for 
its rich marine biodiversity, including coral reefs and numerous species of fish and 
marine mammals. The East China Sea, bordered by China, Japan, and Taiwan, is 
an important fishing ground and supports various marine habitats. The Coral 
Asia- Physical 
 
 
Triangle, situated in Southeast Asia, is a global center of marine biodiversity, 
hosting a multitude of coral reefs, fish species, and other marine organisms. 
Biodiversity in Asia 
Asia's diverse physical landscapes have contributed to the continent's remarkable 
biodiversity. Here are some notable examples of flora and fauna found in Asia: 
Flora: 
? Bamboo: Found across Asia, bamboo is a versatile plant used for 
construction, furniture, paper production, and as a food source for many 
animals. 
? Orchids: Asia is home to a wide variety of orchid species, renowned for 
their vibrant colors and intricate floral structures. 
? Rhododendrons: These colorful flowering plants are abundant in the 
Himalayas and other mountainous regions of Asia. 
? Banyan trees: Known for their aerial prop roots, banyan trees are 
widespread in Asia and play a significant role in many cultural and religious 
traditions. 
Fauna: 
? Bengal Tiger: The majestic Bengal Tiger is native to the Indian subcontinent 
and is one of the largest and most iconic big cat species in the world. 
? Giant Panda: Found primarily in China, the adorable giant panda is known 
for its distinct black-and-white fur and bamboo diet. 
? Asian Elephant: This magnificent species is distributed across several Asian 
countries and plays a vital role in maintaining forest ecosystems. 
? Snow Leopard: Thriving in the high altitudes of the Himalayas and Central 
Asia, the elusive snow leopard is perfectly adapted to its rugged habitat. 
? Komodo Dragon: Although mainly found on the Indonesian islands, 
including Komodo Island, the Komodo dragon is a fascinating and unique 
reptile that captures the imagination of many. 
These examples represent just a fraction of the incredible biodiversity found in 
Asia, emphasizing the continent's significance in global conservation efforts. 
Asia- Physical 
 
 
Conclusion 
Asia's physical geography encompasses diverse regions, from towering mountain 
systems and expansive plateaus to vast plains, deserts, freshwater environments, 
and coastal areas. This rich tapestry of landscapes has fostered a wide array of 
ecosystems and habitats, supporting a remarkable range of plant and animal 
species. Exploring the physical geography and biodiversity of Asia reveals the 
continent's profound natural beauty and highlights the importance of preserving 
and conserving these invaluable resources for future generations.