The Western Desert - Development Challenges - Paper 1 Flashcards
What are the 3 main challenges of development in desert areas?
-Inaccessibility
-Water supply
-Extreme temperatures
Why is accessibility severely limited in parts of the Western Desert?
The low population density of less than one person per km² means that parts of the Western lack surfaced roads.
Why can inaccessibility in the Western Desert specifically be dangerous?
As it attracts millions of tourists every year, who might easily get lost or have to find their own way around as a result of lack of roads. With the extreme heat, the Western Desert is a dangerous place for if your car breaks down.
Give an example of when inaccessibility has been dangerous to visitors of the Western Desert:
In 2015, an elderly tourist died of dehydration near the edge of the Mojave desert after getting lost when attempting to drive off-road.
What are 2 major highways which help link major cities and improve accessibility?
-Route 70 through Utah
-Route 66 which connects Chicago with California through the Western Desert
What main construction has improved water supply in the Western Desert?
The construction of the Hoover Dam in 1935.
Why could water supply be a major problem in the future?
-As demands for water soar in rapidly growing cities such as Phoenix and Arizona.
-As temperatures are forecast to rise as a result of climate change
What is the average temperature in the Western Desert?
27°C.
How high can summer temperatures reach in the Western Desert?
Above 50°C.
What are 3 problems created by extreme temperatures in the Western Desert?
-Work outside is very hard, especially for farmers who have to work during the day
-High rates of evaporation and therefore water shortages
-Plants and animals have to adapt to cope with the high temperatures
What are two adaptations of traditional homes in the Western Desert?
-Thick earth walls to keep homes cool during the day but warm at night
-Whitewashed walls to reflect sunlight
