Chapter Ten Mexico Section One Geography of Mexico

The Heartland Region The central plateau is Mexicos most important and populous region, with several large cities. It has rich soil and plenty of rainfall. It is Mexicos best farmland and home to 80% of Mexicos population.

Natural Hazards Mexicos central plateau is geologically unstable. It lies at the intersection of four tectonic plates. These plates move against each other and form jagged mountain ranges. Some of the mountains on the southern edge are active volcanoes. Earthquakes often shake the land. In 1985, a strong earthquake struck Mexico City, killing 10,000 people and causing $4.1 billion in damage.

Climate Factors Mexicos central plateau has a desirable climate. The northern part of the plateau receives less than 4 inches of rain per year, while the southern part receives up to 40 inches per year. Elevation is a key factor in the climate. The average elevation in this region is 7,000 feet. Mexico City is in this region and enjoys average temperatures of 74F In the summer and 70F in the winter. This is a major draw for millions of people who have moved into Mexico Citys slums. Many people are unemployed or under-employed. They live in vast slums without sewage or running water.

The Coastal Regions The coastal plains are found along the northern Pacific coast, the southern Pacific coast, and the Gulf Coast. In the northern Pacific coast and Gulf coast, the plains stretch 80 miles inland. Along the southern Pacific coast they stretch only 15 miles inland.

Northern Pacific Coast This region is dry, hot, and sparsely populated. The city of Tijuana is the only exception with over one million people. This is one of Mexicos best farmland due to irrigation. Irrigation- the artificial watering of farmland by storing and distributing water drawn from reservoirs or rivers. Baja California is a long peninsula, 760 miles, of mostly mountainous desert.

Southern Pacific Coast This region is bordered by the Sierra Madre Del Sur mountain range. The regions tropical climate make this an ideal tourist destination. The resort cities of Acapulco, Puerto Vallarta, and Mazatlan are located here.

Gulf Coastal Plain This region is vitally important to Mexicos economy. Along the plain and offshore, in the Gulf of Mexico, are vast deposits of petroleum and natural gas. This has helped make Mexico one of the worlds major oil producing nations.

The Yucatan Peninsula This region is mostly flat. It is bedrock made of limestone. When it rains, this causes the water to seep into the rock and produces sinkholes. Sinkhole- a hole formed when limestone is dissolved, causing the land above to collapse. This region has a sparse population. The largest city is Merida with a population of 500,000. Cancun is a major tourist destination. Its streets are lined with towering hotels and lavish resorts. Ancient Mayan ruins attract tourists and archeologists.