Global Spatial Inequality and Development Dynamics
Spatial Inequality in the Globalized World
Understanding Global Disparities
The process of globalization occurs in a world with significant inequalities between territories. These are often grouped into developed (p.des.) and underdeveloped (p.subd.) regions.
Causes of Inequality
Traditional explanations often cite the influence of the physical environment. Current explanations focus on:
- Internal Factors:
- Economic: Exploitation of natural resources.
- Extra-economic: Political functioning, culture.
- External
Spain’s Geographic Landscape
Spain’s External Mountain Systems
The External Ridges include the Basque Mountains, formed by steep hills but with little high elevation. The Pyrenees are an important mountain system that links the Iberian Peninsula with the rest of Europe; they consist of a central, higher section (up to 3404m). The Catalan Coastal Ranges are formed by two sets of mountains parallel to the Mediterranean coast, with a maximum altitude exceeding 1500m. The Betic Systems consist of two parallel alignments: the Penibética
Read MoreEarth’s Dynamic Surface: Continental Drift and Plate Tectonics
Continental Drift Theory: Earth’s Moving Continents
Proposed by Alfred Wegener in 1915, the Continental Drift Theory revolutionized our understanding of Earth’s dynamic surface. Wegener suggested that continents have moved across the Earth’s surface over geological time, introducing the groundbreaking concept of Pangaea, a supercontinent that existed millions of years ago.
Key Evidence Supporting Continental Drift
Wegener supported his theory with several compelling lines of evidence:
Geographical Fit
Key Definitions in Hydrology and Physical Geography
Glossary of Hydrological and Geographical Terms
River Basin (Drainage Basin)
A river basin, also known as a drainage basin, is the entire land area or region drained by a river and its tributaries. All precipitation within this area flows into the same river system.
Watershed (Drainage Divide)
A watershed, or drainage divide, is the high ground or ridge that separates two adjacent river basins, directing water to different river systems.
River Network
A river network illustrates the interconnected system
Read MoreEarth’s Dynamic Processes: Geology and Ecology Basics
Earth’s Dynamic Processes: Geology and Ecology
Geological Processes
Erosion, Transport, and Sedimentation
Erosion: Is the mobilization and removal of materials resulting from the weathering of rocks.
Transport: Eroded materials from the erosive processes are transported to other places.
Sedimentation: Occurs when the strength of the transporting agents decreases, and these materials are deposited in the field.
Water Action and River Systems
Surface Water Dynamics
Runoff: If water saturates the ground’s
Read MoreGeological Processes Shaping Earth’s Surface
External Geodynamic Processes
External geodynamic processes occur on land or close to it. External geological agents include: rain, rivers, wind, sea, and ice. These agents produce weathering, erosion, transportation, and sedimentation. Moreover, they redistribute land, shaping the relief, and transform sediments into sedimentary rocks.
Weathering: Transformation of Earth’s Surface
Weathering is the set of changes experienced by lithospheric materials in contact with the atmosphere, hydrosphere, or
Read More