Geography Basics - Grade 11

Introduction

• Focus on understanding the Earth’s shape, divisions, movements, and energy distribution.

Shape and Division of the Earth

• Shape: The Earth is spherical, similar to a ball.
• Hemispheres:
  • Earth can be divided into two halves called hemispheres.
  • Northern Hemisphere: Upper half.
  • Southern Hemisphere: Lower half.
• Equator:
  • Divides Earth into Northern and Southern Hemispheres.
  • Represents 0 degrees latitude.

Lines of Latitude

• Definition: Distances measured in degrees from the equator.
• Examples:
  • 30 degrees, 60 degrees, and 90 degrees lines of latitude.
• Regions:
  • Tropics: Regions near the equator.
  • Polar Regions: Areas near 90 degrees latitude.

Earth's Movements

• Rotation:
  • Earth rotates on its axis in a rotary motion.
  • Takes 24 hours to complete, creating a day.
• Revolution:
  • Earth revolves around the Sun in an orbit.
  • Takes 365 days, creating a year.

Energy Distribution

• Equator:
  • Receives more direct sunlight, making it hotter.
  • Sun rays are concentrated, creating intense heat.
• Polar Regions:
  • Sun rays strike at a lower angle, resulting in colder temperatures.

Energy Balance

• Unequal Energy Distribution:
  • Equator receives more heat, while poles receive less.
• Need for Energy Balance:
  • Excess heat from the equator moves to the poles.
• Mechanisms:
  • Winds: Transfer heat by moving air from equator to poles.
  • Ocean Currents: Surface water movement transferring heat towards poles.

Conclusion

• Understanding Earth’s shape, divisions, movements, and energy balance is fundamental in geography.
• Stay tuned for more educational content on geography.