Arid Landscape Development (AQA A Level Geography): Exam Questions

Outline the role of wind in the process of transport in hot deserts.

[4]

Figure 4 shows a landscape in the Namib Desert in southern Africa.

Figure 4

Note: The landforms in this landscape are aligned approximately north-west to south-east and extend from between 16 km to 32 km in length, reaching heights between 60 metres to 240 metres. The sediment source is the Orange River, several kilometres away.

Using Figure 4 and your own knowledge, assess the relative importance of factors leading to the development of this landscape.

[6]

Figure 4 shows the landscape around and including Uluru in the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, Northern Territory, Australia.

Figure 4

Note: Uluru is one of Australia’s most recognisable natural landmarks. The sandstone formation stands 348 m high, rising 863 m above sea level, with most of its bulk lying underground. It has a total circumference of 9.4 km. Uluru is dominantly composed of coarse-grained sandstone and other rock fragments including basalt and granite.

Using Figure 4 and your own knowledge, assess the role of weathering in the development of this landscape.

[6]

Figure 4 shows a landscape in the Gobi Desert near Yumenguan, China.

Figure 4

Note: This landscape features river and lake sand and mud beds (primarily silt, sand, clay and some gravel) which were formed, but not completely consolidated, towards the end of the last ice age.

Using Figure 4 and your own knowledge, assess the view that wind is the most important factor in the development of this landscape.

[6]

Outline how aeolian processes create distinctive landforms in hot desert environments.

Analyse the data shown in Figure 1.

Figure 1: Distribution and characteristics of sand dunes across different zones of the Great Erg Oriental, Algeria.

Source: Adapted from remote sensing and field survey data, Sahara Desert research programme, 2019.

'Desert environments offer more opportunities than challenges for human development.' To what extent do you agree with this view?

With reference to a hot desert that you have studied, assess the relative importance of water and wind as agents of landscape development.