Short Answer Questions.
Q1: What are the two types of deserts, and where are most hot deserts located in the northern hemisphere?
Ans: The two types of deserts are hot deserts and cold deserts. Most hot deserts in the northern hemisphere are located near the Tropic of Cancer.
Q2: Which is the largest country in the world without a river, and in which region is it located?
Ans: Saudi Arabia is the largest country without a river, and it is located in the hot desert region.
Q3: Name the highest point in Saudi Arabia and the type of climate it experiences in summer.
Ans: The highest point in Saudi Arabia is Jabal Sawda. The climate in summer at this point is extremely hot.
Q4: What is an oasis, and why is it crucial in the desert region?
Ans: An oasis is a green and fertile area in the desert, often formed by underground water. It is crucial as it supports vegetation and serves as a place for settlements and pastures.
Q5: What is the primary occupation of the people in the desert areas, and why do they move from place to place?
Ans: The primary occupation of people in the desert areas is nomadic herding. They move from place to place to find pasture for their animals.
Q6: Describe the climate of Saudi Arabia during the winter season.
Ans: During the winter season (October to April), the days are warm, but the nights are very cold.
Q7: Which is the only cultivable area in the desert, and what crops are grown there?
Ans: The only cultivable area in the desert is an oasis. Crops like date palm, wheat, and barley are grown there.
Q8: What is the main source of income for Saudi Arabia, and what industries have developed due to it?
Ans: The main source of income for Saudi Arabia is petroleum. Industries such as petrochemicals, refineries, cement, and steel have developed due to it.
Q9: Name two important cities in Saudi Arabia and mention their characteristics.
Ans: Two important cities in Saudi Arabia are Riyadh and Jeddah. Riyadh is the capital with skyscrapers, markets, and educational institutions. Jeddah is a commercial city and a port.
Q10: Why do people come to Mecca and Medina?
Ans: People come to Mecca and Medina for pilgrimage as they are holy cities.
Long Answer Questions.
Q1: Explain the climate of Saudi Arabia during the summer and its impact on daily life.
Ans: During summer (May to September), Saudi Arabia experiences extremely hot days. People adapt by engaging in activities during cooler nights. In coastal regions, temperatures are milder.
Q2: Describe the vegetation in the desert region of Saudi Arabia and explain how it has adapted to the harsh climate.
Ans: Plants like cactus, tamarisk, date palm, and sedge have adapted to hot and dry weather. They have deep roots, small thorny leaves, and can withstand arid conditions.
Q3: Discuss the role of camels in the desert region and how they contribute to the livelihood of the people.
Ans: Camels are essential in the desert, providing transportation, milk, and wool. They are well-adapted to the harsh conditions and are a crucial part of the nomadic lifestyle.
Q4: Examine the impact of the discovery of petroleum on the economy and lifestyle of Saudi Arabia.
Ans: The discovery of petroleum has transformed Saudi Arabia's economy, making it prosperous. It led to the development of industries, urbanization, and a shift from nomadic to settled lifestyles.
Q5: Elaborate on the occupation of the people in the desert areas and how it has evolved over time.
Ans: People in desert areas primarily engage in nomadic herding. With the discovery of petroleum, some have shifted to urban occupations like business, trade, and industry, contributing to the country's prosperity.
Q6: Explain the significance of oases in the desert region and how they support life.
Ans: Oases are vital as they provide water, supporting vegetation and settlements. They serve as crucial stopping points for caravans, and people rely on them for agriculture and pasture.
Q7: Discuss the geographical features of Saudi Arabia, focusing on its deserts, mountains, and coastal areas.
Ans: Saudi Arabia has rocky plateaus, vast deserts like Rub'al-Khali and An Nafud, mountains near the Red Sea, and coastal regions along the Red Sea and Persian Gulf.
Q8: Explore the traditional lifestyle of people in Saudi Arabian villages, emphasizing the role of sheikhs and the persistence of traditional practices.
Ans: Villages maintain traditional lifestyles, with sheikhs leading Arab families. In desert areas, people live as nomads, while some have embraced settled lifestyles in towns.
Q9: Describe the climate of Riyadh and Jeddah and how these cities differ in terms of geography and characteristics.
Ans: Riyadh, the capital, is well-planned with skyscrapers, while Jeddah is a commercial port city. Riyadh experiences hot summers, and both cities have unique characteristics.
Q10: Examine the role of Mecca and Medina as holy cities and explain the significance of pilgrimages to these places.
Ans: Mecca and Medina are holy cities attracting pilgrims. People visit for Hajj and Umrah, contributing to the cultural and religious significance of Saudi Arabia.
