Chapter 20 of G.C. Leong’s “
Certificate Physical and Human Geography“ is titled “The Temperate Continental (Steppe) Climate“. This chapter focuses on a specific climatic region characterized by vast treeless grasslands.
Key Concepts of Chapter 20
Ranching: Large-scale cattle and sheep rearing are common, especially in the Pampas and the Downs.
Distribution: These regions are located in the interior of continents, away from maritime influences. Famous examples include the Steppes (Eurasia), Prairies (North America), Pampas (Argentina/Uruguay), Veld (South Africa), and Downs (Australia).
Climatic Characteristics:
Temperature: Features extreme temperatures with hot summers and very cold winters (a high annual temperature range).
Precipitation: Light rainfall occurs mostly in spring and early summer, which is ideal for grass growth.
Natural Vegetation: The dominant vegetation consists of short, nutrient-rich grasses. Trees are generally absent except along river banks.
Economic Development:
Agriculture: Known as the “Granaries of the World,” these regions are major producers of wheat through extensive mechanized farming.
