Sahara Desert Knowledge Assessment

The Sahara Desert, the largest hot desert in the world, spans 11 countries in Africa and covers over 9.2 million square kilometers. It features diverse landforms and has a harsh climate with extreme temperatures and minimal rainfall. Historically, the Sahara was much greener during the African humid period. Despite current arid conditions, various plants and animals thrive there. The Sahara also plays a crucial role in the Amazon rainforest's ecosystem by transporting sand that fertilizes the forest. However, the desert has expanded by 10% since 1920, partly due to human-induced climate change, threatening Africa's arable land.

Which of the following countries is NOT part of the Sahara Desert?

• Algeria

• Egypt

• Brazil

• Mali

What is the approximate size of the Sahara Desert in square kilometers?

• 5 million

• 9.2 million

• 12 million

• 15 million

During the summer, what temperature can the Sahara Desert exceed?

• 40 degrees Celsius

• 30 degrees Celsius

• 50 degrees Celsius

• 60 degrees Celsius

How much rainfall does the central part of the Sahara receive annually?

• Three inches

• Four inches

• Two inches

• Less than one inch

What was the Sahara Desert like during the African humid period?

• Green and wet

• Cold and icy

• Sandy and barren

• Dry and arid

Which animal is NOT native to the Sahara Desert?

• Dorcas gazelle

• Saharan horned viper

• Dromedary camel

• Polar bear

How does the Sahara Desert contribute to the Amazon rainforest?

• By blocking sunlight

• By transporting sand

• By providing shade

• By reducing humidity

What nutrient does the Sahara sand provide to the Amazon rainforest?

• Calcium

• Potassium

• Nitrogen

• Phosphorus

By what percentage has the Sahara Desert grown since 1920?

• 5%

• 10%

• 15%

• 20%

What is the potential consequence for Africa if desertification is not halted by 2030?

• Loss of half of arable land

• Loss of one-third of arable land

• No significant impact

• Loss of two-thirds of arable land