Geography Class 7 Life in Desert

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Class 7 Geography: Chapter 7 – Life in the Deserts

A desert is not just a "sandy place"; it is a land of extremes. Whether scorching hot or freezing cold, life in these regions has adapted in incredible ways.


1. Comparing the Two Extremes: Sahara vs. Ladakh

Feature The Sahara Desert (Hot Desert) Ladakh (Cold Desert)

Location North Africa (covers 11 countries) Great Himalayas (Eastern Jammu & Kashmir/India)

Climate Scorching hot and bone-dry; short rainy seasons. Freezing cold and dry; thin air that intensifies sun heat.

Vegetation Cactus, date palms, and acacia. Scanty patches of grass; willow, poplar, and fruit trees (Apples, Apricots).

Fauna Camels, hyenas, jackals, scorpions, and snakes. Wild goats, sheep, yak, and various birds like Robins and Redstarts.

Human Life Nomadic tribes (Bedouins); settled life near Oases. Primarily Buddhists and Muslims; famous for monasteries (Gompas).

2. Key Concepts to Remember

What is an Oasis?

When wind blows away sand, depressions are formed. In these areas, underground water reaches the surface, creating a green island in the desert. This is an *Oasis*. They support settled life and crops like date palms.


Climate and Survival

- *Sahara:* Temperatures can soar to 50°C during the day, yet drop to near freezing (0°C) at night.

- *Ladakh:* Due to high altitude (3,000m to 8,000m), the air is so thin you can feel the sun's heat intensely while your feet remain in the freezing shade.


Traditional Clothing

In the Sahara, people wear *heavy robes*. This might seem strange for a hot place, but these robes protect them from dust storms and the "Loo" (hot, dry winds).


3. Quick Revision Quiz (Solved)

*Q: Why is there scanty vegetation in deserts?*

*A:* Deserts have two major constraints: very low rainfall and extreme temperatures (too hot or too cold). Most plants cannot grow without sufficient water and a moderate climate.


*Q: What makes Ladakh a major tourist hub?*

*A:*

1. *Gompas:* Famous Buddhist monasteries like Hemis and Thiksey.

2. *Nature:* Treks to see glaciers (like the Gangri glacier) and beautiful meadows.

3. *Culture:* Unique festivities and traditional ceremonies.


*Q: Which crop is Egypt famous for growing?*

*A:* Cotton. The Nile Valley provides the water needed to grow this high-quality crop.



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