North America Unit

Which of the following is NOT one of the five major physical regions of North America?

• Sahara Desert

• Canadian Shield

• Western Cordillera

• Great Plains

Answer explanation

The Sahara Desert is located in Africa, not North America. The other options—Canadian Shield, Western Cordillera, and Great Plains—are all major physical regions of North America.

What is the largest river system in North America?

• Mississippi-Missouri River

• Colorado River

• St. Lawrence River

• Mackenzie River

Answer explanation

The largest river system in North America is the Mississippi-Missouri River, which spans over 2,300 miles and drains a vast area, making it the most significant river system on the continent.

Which biome is found in the polar climate zone of North America?

• Tundra

• Deciduous forest

• Grassland

• Tropical rainforest

Answer explanation

The tundra biome is characterized by its cold temperatures and permafrost, making it the primary biome found in the polar climate zone of North America. Other options like deciduous forests and tropical rainforests do not thrive in such conditions.

What is the nickname for the Great Plains region of North America?

• The Breadbasket

• The Sunshine State

• The Golden State

• The Granite State

Answer explanation

The Great Plains region is often referred to as 'The Breadbasket' due to its extensive agriculture, particularly in wheat and corn production, making it a key area for food supply in North America.

Which of these is NOT a climate zone found in North America?

• Equatorial

• Polar

• Temperate

• Tropical

Answer explanation

The equatorial climate zone is not found in North America. Instead, North America features polar, temperate, and tropical zones, which are characterized by their distinct weather patterns and temperatures.

What is the capital city of Canada?

• Ottawa

• Toronto

• Montreal

• Vancouver

Answer explanation

The capital city of Canada is Ottawa, which is located in the province of Ontario. It serves as the political center of the country, housing important government institutions.

Which of these is NOT a province of Canada?

• Alaska

• Ontario

• Quebec

• Alberta

Answer explanation

Alaska is not a province of Canada; it is a state in the United States. Ontario, Quebec, and Alberta are all provinces in Canada.

What percentage of the world's freshwater is found in Canada?

• 20%

• 5%

• 10%

• 30%

Answer explanation

Canada holds about 20% of the world's freshwater resources, making it a significant contributor to global freshwater availability. This is why the correct answer is 20%.

Which mountain range is found in western North America?

• Rocky Mountains

• Appalachian Mountains

• Alps

• Andes

Answer explanation

The Rocky Mountains are a major mountain range located in western North America, stretching from Canada to New Mexico. The other options, such as the Appalachian Mountains, Alps, and Andes, are found in different regions.

What is the largest city in the United States by population?

• New York City

• Los Angeles

• Chicago

• Houston

Answer explanation

New York City is the largest city in the United States by population, with over 8 million residents, significantly more than Los Angeles, Chicago, and Houston, making it the correct answer.