1. Geography of China

2. Physical Region Description Tibetan Plateau (outer China)
Very large plateau- highest plateau on Earth
Mostly rocky land
1/3 of the world’s population depend on the rivers that start in the Tibetan plateau
Cold climate year-round since it is so high in elevation
Sparse vegetation
Travel is difficult through this area
Northwestern Deserts
(Gobi and Taklamakan)
Taklamakan is very dangerous with extreme temperatures, poisonous snakes, sandstorms, little water
Both deserts have harsh climates and are difficult to cross
Only vegetation is bushes, weeds, and trees near the oases
Gobi is mainly stony and has very little sand
Northeastern Plains
Varies in climate and is mainly too cold and too dry for growing crops
Grasses for feeding cows in ancient times
Low hills and plains
North China Plain
Flat region of grassland
Known as “the land of the yellow earth” for the yellow silt that gets deposited by the Yellow River
Since the silt makes for fertile soil, the land is good for crops and settlement
Chang Jiang Basins
Low, wet coastal plains
Major river flows through the basin and surrounding lands are very fertile
Warm and wet climate good for growing rice