Geography of Africa Part 2

When did the Ethiopian Highlands begin to rise?

• 75 million years ago

• 50 million years ago

• 100 million years ago

• 25 million years ago

Answer explanation

The Ethiopian Highlands began to rise approximately 75 million years ago due to tectonic activity, making this the correct choice among the options provided.

What is the most emblematic highland species in the Ethiopian Highlands?

• Ethiopian wolf

• Walia ibex

• Gelada baboon

• African elephant

Answer explanation

The Ethiopian wolf is the most emblematic highland species in the Ethiopian Highlands, known for its unique adaptations to the high-altitude environment and its status as one of the world's rarest canids.

Which plant species is native to the Ethiopian Highlands?

• Ethiopian rose

• Baobab tree

• Acacia tree

• Coconut palm

Answer explanation

The Ethiopian rose is a plant species native to the Ethiopian Highlands, known for its unique beauty and adaptation to the high-altitude environment. The other options, like the Baobab tree and Coconut palm, are not native to this region.

What is the size of the savannas in Africa?

• 13 million square kilometers

• 5 million square kilometers

• 20 million square kilometers

• 8 million square kilometers

Answer explanation

The savannas in Africa cover approximately 13 million square kilometers, making it the largest area of this ecosystem on the continent. This size is significant compared to the other options provided.

What is the main economic activity that residents of savanna regions are capitalizing on?

• Ecotourism

• Mining

• Fishing

• Manufacturing

Answer explanation

Residents of savanna regions primarily capitalize on ecotourism, which leverages their unique wildlife and landscapes to attract visitors, providing economic benefits while promoting conservation.

What natural features protect the Swahili Coast from severe weather?

• Coral reefs and barrier islands

• Mountains and forests

• Deserts and plateaus

• Rivers and lakes

Answer explanation

Coral reefs and barrier islands act as natural barriers, absorbing wave energy and reducing the impact of storms on the Swahili Coast, thus protecting it from severe weather.

Which island off the coast of Tanzania has been a center for trade and water travel?

• Kilwa Kisiwani

• Zanzibar

• Pemba

• Mafia

Answer explanation

Kilwa Kisiwani was a significant trading center in the Indian Ocean, known for its strategic location that facilitated trade and water travel, making it a key player in the region's commerce.

What is the role of wildebeest in the Serengeti Plains?

• Their waste helps fertilize the soil

• They are primary predators

• They control the elephant population

• They provide water sources

Answer explanation

Wildebeest play a crucial role in the Serengeti by contributing to soil fertility through their waste, which enriches the land and supports plant growth, benefiting the entire ecosystem.

What feature helps bush babies hunt at night?

• Sharp claws

• Enormous eyes

• Long tails

• Strong legs

Answer explanation

Bush babies have enormous eyes that provide excellent night vision, allowing them to hunt effectively in low light conditions. This adaptation is crucial for their nocturnal lifestyle.

What is the most common vegetation on the Swahili Coast?

• Rainforests

• Mangrove forests

• Grasslands

• Pine forests

Answer explanation

The Swahili Coast is characterized by mangrove forests, which thrive in the coastal intertidal zones. These ecosystems are crucial for coastal protection and biodiversity, making them the most common vegetation in the area.