Short & Long Questions: South Africa: Geographical Features | Footprints Class 7: Book Solutions, Notes & Worksheets PDF Download

Short Answer Questions

Q1: What is the name of the Scottish explorer who discovered Victoria Falls in Africa? 
Ans: David Livingstone is the Scottish explorer who discovered Victoria Falls in Africa.

Q2: Describe the physical divisions of South Africa based on its landforms. 
Ans: South Africa can be divided into plateaus, mountains, arid regions, and coastal plains based on its landforms.

Q3: Name one of the major rivers in South Africa that flows into the Indian Ocean. 
Ans: The Limpopo River is one of the major rivers in South Africa that flows into the Indian Ocean.

Q4: What are capes in geography, and can you give an example of a prominent cape in South Africa? 
Ans: Capes are extensions of the coastline that jut out into the sea. An example of a prominent cape in South Africa is the Cape of Good Hope.

Q5: Which is the longest river in South Africa and where does it empty into? 
Ans: The Orange River is the longest river in South Africa, and it empties into the Atlantic Ocean.

Q6: What are the main factors that affect the climate of South Africa?
Ans: The climate of South Africa is influenced by its location in the southern hemisphere, its proximity to the Tropic of Capricorn, the presence of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, as well as the impact of ocean currents like the Benguela Current and Agulhas Current.

Q7: How does altitude influence the climate in South Africa?
Ans: Altitude plays a role in determining temperature variations in South Africa. Areas at higher elevations, like the High Veld and mountains, tend to be cooler than lower-lying plains. For example, Johannesburg, located at a higher altitude, experiences cooler temperatures compared to coastal areas like Durban.

Q8: What are the primary sources of rainfall in different regions of South Africa?
Ans: In South Africa, the prevailing Southeast Trade Winds from the Indian Ocean bring moisture-laden air that results in significant rainfall along the east coast and the windward slopes of mountains. However, as these winds move inland, regions in the rain-shadow receive less rainfall.

Q9: How does the distribution of natural vegetation in South Africa vary?
Ans: The natural vegetation in South Africa is diverse and varies based on factors like rainfall patterns and temperature. Different regions support various types of vegetation, ranging from tropical savanna grasslands in the north to Mediterranean-type vegetation in the southwest known as Fynbos biome.

Q10: What measures have been taken to protect wildlife in South Africa?
Ans: The national and provincial governments in South Africa have implemented conservation measures to protect wildlife. Conservation parks and reserves play a critical role in preserving natural habitats. Despite challenges like human settlement expansion, efforts are made to safeguard wildlife, with strict regulations on activities like big game hunting.

Long Answer Questions

Q1: Explain the factors influencing the climate of South Africa.
Ans: South Africa's climate is influenced by several factors:

• Geographical Location: South Africa is located mostly in the south temperate zone, with the majority lying south of the Tropic of Capricorn.
• Ocean Influence: Bordered by the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, South Africa experiences a maritime climate along the coast, moderating temperatures and rainfall.
• Ocean Currents: The cold Benguela Current along the west coast and the warm Agulhas Current along the east coast affect wind temperatures and coastal climate variations.
• Altitude: The average plateau elevation of 1,000m to 1,500m impacts climate, with high altitude areas like the High Veld and mountains experiencing cooler temperatures.
• Seasonal Changes: South Africa experiences summer in December and January and winter in June and July, with varying temperatures across different regions.

Q2: Describe the impact of prevailing winds on rainfall distribution in South Africa.
Ans: Prevailing winds, particularly the Southeast Trade Winds and North Westerlies, play a significant role in determining rainfall patterns in South Africa:

• Southeast Trade Winds: Moisture-laden winds from the Indian Ocean bring heavy rainfall to the southeast coastal strip and windward slopes of mountains like the Drakensberg.
• Rain Shadow Effect: Areas like the central plateau receive less rainfall as they are in the rain shadow of mountain ranges, receiving around 50cm to 140cm annually.
• Decreasing Rainfall: Rainfall decreases from east to west, with regions like northwestern South Africa receiving minimal precipitation, leading to arid to semi-arid conditions.
• North Westerlies: These winds, cooled over the Benguela Current, primarily bring winter rainfall to the western and southwestern corners of the country, creating a Mediterranean climate type.
• Regional Climate Variation: Different regions of South Africa receive varying amounts of rainfall due to the influence of prevailing winds and ocean currents, shaping the country's diverse climate types.

Q3: Discuss the impact of natural vegetation and wildlife on South Africa's biodiversity.
Ans: The natural vegetation and wildlife in South Africa contribute significantly to its biodiversity:

• Vegetation Zones: From tropical savannas in the north to temperate grasslands and coastal forests, South Africa's diverse vegetation zones are shaped by rainfall patterns and temperatures.
• Wildlife Habitat: The varied vegetation types support a wide range of wildlife species, including big game animals like lions, elephants, and rhinoceroses, alongside diverse bird and reptile populations.
• Conservation Efforts: National and provincial conservation parks play a crucial role in safeguarding wildlife habitats, although human settlement expansion poses challenges.
• Threats to Biodiversity: Human activities like farming and habitat destruction pose threats to wildlife populations, leading to declines in certain species and ecosystems.
• Ecotourism: Wildlife attractions, including game reserves and national parks, support eco-tourism in South Africa, contributing to both conservation efforts and the country's economy.

Q4: Explain the geographical features of South Africa in detail.
Ans: South Africa is the southernmost country on the African continent with a variety of physical features.

• Plateau Region: The country is dominated by a high, flat-topped plateau with an average elevation of about 1,000 meters. The central and eastern part of this plateau, known as the High Veld, rises to heights of 1,200 to 2,000 meters, sloping from east to west. This plateau descends sharply towards the coast, forming the Great Escarpment.
• Mountain Ranges: South Africa features isolated mountain ranges like the Drakensberg mountains to the east, reaching heights of over 3,300 meters. Other ranges like Stormberg, Winterberg, and Sneeuberg are found in the eastern central regions.
• Arid Regions: The Great Karoo and Little Karoo regions are vast arid basins, while the north-western plateau transforms into an arid sandy desert merging with the Kalahari Desert in neighboring countries.
• Coastal Plains and Lowlands: The coastal plains and lowlands slope down from the plateau and are characterized by sandy beaches, estuaries, and natural bays like St Helena, Saldanha Bay, and Mossel Bay.
• Rivers: Rivers in South Africa originate from the High Veld or mountain ranges and flow in various directions. Major rivers include the Orange River, Limpopo River, Vaal River, and Tugela River.

Q5: Discuss the significance of David Livingstone's explorations in Africa.
Ans:

• Discovery of Victoria Falls: David Livingstone, a Scottish explorer, is renowned for discovering Victoria Falls, a spectacular waterfall on the Zambezi River in southern Africa. This discovery shed light on Africa's natural wonders.
• Geographical Knowledge: Livingstone's extensive travels in Africa during the 19th century significantly contributed to the world's understanding of Africa's geography, diverse populations, and natural resources. His work paved the way for broader exploration and study of the continent.
• European Colonization: Livingstone's explorations played a pivotal role in opening up Africa to European colonization. His detailed accounts and maps provided valuable information that influenced European powers' decisions to colonize and exploit African territories.
• Cultural Exchange: Through his interactions with local communities and tribes, Livingstone facilitated cultural exchanges between Africa and the rest of the world. His writings and reports helped bridge the gap in understanding between different cultures.
• Legacy: David Livingstone's legacy as an explorer and humanitarian endures, inspiring future generations to appreciate the beauty and complexity of Africa while promoting the importance of responsible exploration and cultural understanding.