North American Vocabulary Flashcards

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Rocky Mountains

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A major, high-peaked mountain range in western North America, stretching from Canada to New Mexico. Known as the "Backbone of North America."

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Appalachian Mountains

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An older, lower mountain range in eastern North America (Canada to Alabama). Historically important for U.S. westward expansion.

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Sierra Madre

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The main mountain system in Mexico, divided into three rugged, volcanic ranges (Occidental, Oriental, and del Sur).

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Cordillera

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A complex system or chain of parallel mountain ranges, like the entire group of ranges in western North America (Rockies, Cascades, etc.).

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Great Plains

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A vast, flat grassland region in central North America known for its fertile soil and agricultural importance (wheat, cattle).

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Megalopolis

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A large, heavily populated urban area where several major cities and their suburbs have merged. (Example: "BosWash," from Boston to Washington, D.C.)

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Canadian Shield

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The ancient geological core of North America; a vast region in Canada/U.S. of exposed rock, forests, lakes, and rich mineral deposits.