Theory question 106
Nigeria: Physical Setting(a) On a sketch map of Nigeria, show and name the (i) three climatic belts; (ii) dominant air masses which influence the climate of Nigeria (b) Outline three ways in which the Sudan savannah vegetation has adapted itself to the climate in Nigeria (c) In what four ways is natural vegetation of economic importance to man in Nigeria?
Show the model answer
(a) Map with sub-equatorial/humid tropical belt in the south, tropical hinterland (savanna) belt in the middle, tropical continental belt in the north; arrows for the tropical maritime air mass from the south-west (Atlantic) and tropical continental air mass from the north-east (Sahara).
(b) Trees shed leaves in the dry season; long tap roots reach deep water; thick bark resists fire and drought; small, thorny or waxy leaves reduce water loss; grasses dry up and grow again with the rains; some trees store water in their trunks.
(c) Timber and fuelwood; food (fruits, nuts, game); pasture for livestock; raw materials (shea butter, gum arabic, fibres); medicines; protects soil; tourism and wildlife; jobs.
Show air masses with arrows and a key.