Sahara Desert Comprehension Quiz

What does the name "Sahara" come from?

• The Arabic word for emptiness

• The French word for sand

• The Latin word for desert

• The Greek word for heat

Answer explanation

The name "Sahara" originates from the Arabic word "ṣaḥrā'" which means "emptiness" or "desert." This reflects the vast, arid landscape of the Sahara Desert, making the first answer choice the correct one.

Which of the following best describes the Sahara?

• A single large desert

• A collection of deserts

• A rainforest

• A mountain range

Answer explanation

The Sahara is not a single large desert but rather a vast region that includes various types of deserts, such as sand dunes and rocky plateaus, making it a collection of deserts rather than one uniform desert.

What is the Tenere known for in the context of the Sahara?

• The most remote part of the Sahara

• The wettest part of the Sahara

• The highest mountain in the Sahara

• The largest city in the Sahara

Answer explanation

The Tenere is known for being the most remote part of the Sahara, characterized by its vast, isolated landscapes and minimal human presence, making it a significant area within the desert.

According to the text, how long is the journey across the Tenere?

• 500 miles

• 800 miles

• 1200 miles

• 2000 miles

Answer explanation

The text states that the journey across the Tenere is 1200 miles long, making this the correct choice among the options provided.

Why is the journey across the Tenere considered dangerous?

• Because of frequent rainstorms

• Because of the sweltering, desiccated furnace-like conditions

• Because of wild animals

• Because of dense forests

Answer explanation

The journey across the Tenere is considered dangerous primarily due to the sweltering, desiccated furnace-like conditions, which create extreme heat and aridity, making survival difficult.

What is Agadez described as in the text?

• A modern city

• A mud city

• A port city

• A mountain city

Answer explanation

Agadez is described as a 'mud city' due to its traditional architecture made from mud bricks, which is characteristic of the region. This distinguishes it from modern, port, or mountain cities.

Why did the photojournalist, David Adams, travel to the Tenere?

• To study ancient languages

• To visit the world's most remote places

• To climb the highest mountain

• To find rare animals

Answer explanation

David Adams traveled to the Tenere to visit the world's most remote places, which aligns with his work as a photojournalist focused on exploring unique and isolated locations.

What is the significance of the patterns in Agadez, according to the text?

• They are made of gold and silver

• They are created by wind and water

• They are made from clay and straw with no end to their variety

• They are painted by famous artists

Answer explanation

The patterns in Agadez are significant because they are made from clay and straw, showcasing a diverse range of designs. This highlights the creativity and cultural expression in the region, unlike the other options which are inaccurate.

What is claimed to be one of the highest in all of Africa in the holy city mentioned in the text?

• The tallest palm tree

• The highest mud minaret

• The largest market

• The deepest well

Answer explanation

The text refers to a holy city in Africa known for its architectural significance, specifically highlighting the highest mud minaret, which is a notable landmark and a claim to fame for the city.

Which two items were historically sold in the Agadez markets less than a hundred years ago?

• Salt and pepper

• Gold and ivory

• Spices and silk

• Tea and coffee

Answer explanation

Historically, Agadez markets were known for trading valuable items like gold and ivory, which were sought after for their rarity and worth. Other options like spices and silk were less prominent in this region's trade.