Journey Through South America: Climate, Geography, and Natural Resources

South America, the fourth largest continent, is home to over 300 million people, mostly in urban areas. It features diverse climates, from the Andes mountains to the Amazon rainforest. The Andes host Native Americans who utilize llamas and alpacas for wool. South America spans various climate zones, with the Amazon rainforest being a tropical climate. The Cayapó Indians near the Amazon River rely on manioc. The Atacama Desert in Chile is arid but rich in minerals like copper. The Pampas in Argentina and Paraguay have a humid subtropical climate, ideal for agriculture.

What is the rank of South America in terms of size among the continents?

• Second

• Third

• Fourth

• Fifth

Which mountain range runs along the west coast of South America?

• Alps

• Himalayas

• Rocky Mountains

• Andes

What is the primary use of llama and alpaca wool by Native Americans in the Andes?

• Building materials

• Fuel

• Food source

• Weaving blankets and rugs

Which climate zone is the Amazon rainforest located in?

• Temperate

• Arctic

• Tropical

• Desert

What is the average temperature in the Amazon River Basin?

• 80 degrees Fahrenheit

• 90 degrees Fahrenheit

• 70 degrees Fahrenheit

• 60 degrees Fahrenheit

Which river is second in length only to the Nile?

• Yangtze

• Amazon

• Danube

• Mississippi

What staple plant is celebrated by the Cayapó Indians in their dance?

• Corn

• Manioc

• Rice

• Potato

Which desert in Chile is known for its arid climate and mineral deposits?

• Gobi

• Sahara

• Kalahari

• Atacama

What is the primary natural resource found in the Atacama Desert?

• Coal

• Oil

• Copper

• Gold

Which region in South America is ideal for growing wheat and soybeans?

• Patagonia

• Amazon Basin

• Andes

• Pampas