TEST OF PRACTICAL KNOWLEDGE QUESTION (a) List three types of mountains (b) In what four ways are mountains important to man? (C) Outline two problems caused...

Answer Details

(a) Three types of mountains

1. Fold mountains (e.g. the Alps, Himalayas).
2. Block (fault) mountains (e.g. the Ruwenzori).
3. Volcanic mountains (e.g. Mount Cameroon, Kilimanjaro). (Residual mountains are a fourth type.)

(b) Four ways in which mountains are important to man

1. Source of rivers: High mountains cause relief rainfall and act as water catchment areas, feeding rivers used for water supply, irrigation and hydro-electric power.
2. Tourism and recreation: Scenic mountains attract tourists for sightseeing, mountaineering, skiing and holidays, earning foreign exchange.
3. Natural boundaries and defence: Mountains serve as political boundaries between countries and as natural barriers of defence against invasion.
4. Mineral resources: Many mountains are rich in minerals and building stones, and their forested slopes supply timber; some slopes are used for grazing and terraced farming.

(c) Two problems caused by mountains

1. They hinder transport and communication, making the construction of roads and railways difficult and costly.
2. They create leeward (rain-shadow) areas of low rainfall and, being cold and rugged, discourage settlement and farming.