Natural areas of the Earth
Complex Scientific research nature allowed V.V. Dokuchaev to formulate the law in 1898 geographical zoning, Whereby climate, water, soil, relief, vegetation and fauna in a certain territory are closely interconnected and must be studied as a whole. He proposed dividing the Earth's surface into zones that are naturally repeated in the Northern and Southern Hemispheres.
Different geographical (natural) zones Earth are characterized by a certain combination of heat and moisture, soils, flora and fauna and, as a consequence, the characteristics of the economic activities of their population. These are zones of forests, steppes, deserts, tundra, savannah, as well as transition zones forest-tundra, semi-desert, forest-tundra. Natural areas are traditionally named according to the predominant type of vegetation, reflecting the most important features landscape.
Regular change of vegetation - indicator general increase heat. In the tundra, the average temperature of the warmest month of the year - July - does not exceed + 10°C, in the taiga it fluctuates between + 10... + 18°C in the strip of deciduous and mixed forests + 18... + 20°C, in the steppe and forest-steppe +22...+24°С, in semi-deserts and deserts - above +30°С.
Most animal organisms remain active at temperatures from 0 to +30°C. However, temperatures from + 10°C and above are considered the best for growth and development. Obviously, such a thermal regime is typical for the equatorial, subequatorial, tropical, subtropical, and temperate climatic zones of the Earth. The intensity of vegetation development in natural areas ah also depends on the amount of precipitation. Compare, for example, their number in the forest and desert zones (see atlas map).
So, natural areas- these are natural complexes that occupy large areas and are characterized by the dominance of one zonal type of landscape. They are formed mainly under the influence of climate - the distribution of heat and moisture, their ratio. Each natural zone has its own type of soil, vegetation and animal life.
The appearance of a natural area is determined by the type of vegetation cover. But the nature of the vegetation depends on climatic conditions - thermal regime, moisture, light, soil, etc.
As a rule, natural areas are elongated in the form wide stripes from west to east. There are no clear boundaries between them; they gradually transform into one another. The latitudinal location of natural zones is disrupted by the unequal distribution of land and ocean, relief, distance from the ocean.
General characteristics of the main natural zones of the Earth
Let us characterize the main natural zones of the Earth, starting from the equator and moving towards the poles.
There are forests on all continents of the Earth, except Antarctica. Forest zones have both common features and special ones, characteristic only of taiga, mixed and broad-leaved forests or tropical forests.
The general features of the forest zone include: warm or hot summers, a fairly large amount of precipitation (from 600 to 1000 or more mm per year), large deep rivers, and the predominance of woody vegetation. Largest quantity equatorial forests, which occupy 6% of the land, receive heat and moisture. They rightfully hold first place among the forest zones of the Earth in terms of the diversity of plants and animals. 4/5 of all plant species grow here and 1/2 of all land animal species live here.
Climate equatorial forests hot and humid. Average annual temperatures+24... + 28°С. The annual precipitation is more than 1000 mm. It is in the equatorial forest that you can find the largest number of ancient animal species, such as amphibians: frogs, newts, salamanders, toads or marsupials: possums in America, possums in Australia, tenrecs in Africa, lemurs in Madagascar, lorises in Asia; Ancient animals include such inhabitants of equatorial forests as armadillos, anteaters, and lizards.
IN equatorial forests The richest vegetation is located in several tiers. The treetops are home to many species of birds: hummingbirds, hornbills, birds of paradise, crowned pigeons, numerous species of parrots: cockatoos, macaws, Amazons, African Grays. These birds have tenacious legs and strong beaks: they not only fly, but also climb trees very well. Animals that live in treetops also have prehensile paws and tails: sloths, monkeys, howler monkeys, flying foxes, tree kangaroos. The largest animal that lives in the treetops is the gorilla. Such forests are home to many beautiful butterflies and other insects: termites, ants, etc. There are various types of snakes. Anaconda is the largest snake in the world, reaching a length of 10 m or more. The high-water rivers of the equatorial forests are rich in fish.
The largest areas of equatorial forests occupy in South America, in the Amazon River basin, and in Africa - in the Congo River basin. The Amazon is the deepest river on Earth. Every second it carries 220 thousand m3 of water into the Atlantic Ocean. The Congo is the second most water-rich river in the world. Equatorial forests are also common on the islands of the Malaysian archipelago and Oceania, in the southeastern regions of Asia, and in northeastern Australia (see map in the atlas).
Valuable tree species: mahogany, black, yellow - the wealth of equatorial forests. Harvesting valuable timber threatens the conservation of the Earth's unique forests. Space images showed that in a number of areas of the Amazon, forest destruction is proceeding at a catastrophic pace, many times faster than their restoration. At the same time, many species of unique plants and animals are disappearing.
Variably wet monsoon forests
Variably humid monsoon forests can also be found on all continents of the Earth except Antarctica. If in the equatorial forests it is summer all the time, then three seasons are clearly defined here: dry cool (November-February) - winter monsoon; dry hot (March-May) - transitional season; humid hot (June-October) - summer monsoon. Most hot month- May, when the sun is almost at its zenith, the rivers dry up, the trees shed their leaves, and the grass turns yellow.
The summer monsoon arrives at the end of May with hurricane winds, thunderstorms, and torrential rains. Nature comes to life. Due to the alternation of dry and wet seasons, monsoon forests are called variable-wet.
India's monsoon forests are located in the tropical climatic zone. Valuable tree species grow here, characterized by the strength and durability of the wood: teak, sal, sandalwood, satin and ironwood. Teak wood is not afraid of fire and water, it is widely used for the construction of ships. Sal also has a durable and strong wood. Sandalwood and satin trees are used in the manufacture of varnishes and paints.
The fauna of the Indian jungle is rich and diverse: elephants, bulls, rhinoceroses, monkeys. Lots of birds and reptiles.
Monsoon forests in tropical and subtropical regions are also characteristic of Southeast Asia, Central and South America, and the northern and northeastern regions of Australia (see map in the atlas).
Temperate monsoon forests
Temperate monsoon forests are found only in Eurasia. Ussuri taiga - special place in the Far East. This is a real thicket: multi-tiered, dense forests, intertwined with vines and wild grapes. Cedar, walnut, linden, ash, and oak grow here. The lush vegetation is the result of abundant seasonal rainfall and a fairly mild climate. Here you can meet the Ussuri tiger - the largest representative of its species.
The rivers of the monsoon forests are fed by rain and overflow during the summer monsoon rains. The largest of them are the Ganges, Indus, and Amur.
Monsoon forests have been heavily cut down. According to experts, in Eurasia only 5% of the former remains forest areas. Monsoon forests have suffered not only from forestry, but also from agriculture. It is known that the largest agricultural civilizations appeared on fertile soils in the valleys of the Ganges, Irrawaddy, Indus rivers and their tributaries. The development of agriculture required new territories - forests were cut down. Agriculture has adapted for centuries to alternating wet and dry seasons. The main agricultural season is the wet monsoon period. The most important crops are planted here - rice, jute, sugar cane. In the dry, cool season, barley, legumes, and potatoes are planted. During the dry hot season, farming is possible only with artificial irrigation. The monsoon is capricious, its delay leads to severe droughts and destruction of crops. Therefore, artificial irrigation is necessary.
Temperate forests
Temperate forests occupy significant areas in Eurasia and North America (see map in the atlas).
In the northern regions it is taiga, to the south - mixed and deciduous forests. In the forest zone of the temperate zone, the seasons of the year are clearly defined. Average temperatures in January are negative throughout, in some places down to - 40°C, in July + 10... + 20°C; the amount of precipitation is 300-1000 mm per year. The vegetation of plants stops in winter, and there is snow cover for several months.
Spruce, fir, pine, larch grow like in the taiga North America, and in the taiga of Eurasia. The animal world also has a lot in common. The bear is the owner of the taiga. True, in the Siberian taiga it is called a brown bear, and in the Canadian taiga it is called a grizzly bear. You can meet red lynx, elk, wolf, as well as marten, ermine, wolverine, and sable. Flow through the taiga zone largest rivers Siberia - Ob, Irtysh, Yenisei, Lena, which in terms of flow are second only to the rivers of the equatorial forest zone.
To the south, the climate becomes milder: mixed and broad-leaved forests grow here, consisting of species such as birch, oak, maple, linden, among which there are also conifers. Characteristic of the forests of North America are: white oak, sugar maple, yellow birch. Red deer, elk, wild boar, hare; Among the predators, the wolf and the fox are representatives of the animal world of this zone known to us.
If the northern taiga is considered by geographers to be a zone slightly modified by humans, then mixed and broad-leaved forests have been cut down almost everywhere. Their place was taken by agricultural areas, for example, the “corn belt” in the United States; many cities and transport routes are concentrated in this zone. In Europe and North America, the natural landscapes of these forests have been preserved only in mountainous areas.
Savannah
Savannah is a natural zone of low latitudes in the subequatorial, tropical and subtropical zones of the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. Occupies about 40% of the territory of Africa (sub-Saharan Africa), distributed in South and Central America, Southeast Asia, Australia (see map in the atlas). The savanna is dominated by herbaceous vegetation with isolated trees or groups of trees (acacia, eucalyptus, baobab) and bushes.
The fauna of African savannas is surprisingly diverse. To adapt to the conditions of endless dry spaces, nature endowed animals with unique properties. For example, the giraffe is considered the tallest animal on Earth. Its height exceeds 5 m, it has a long tongue (about 50 cm). The giraffe needs all this in order to reach the high branches of the acacia trees. The crowns of acacias begin at a height of 5 m, and giraffes have practically no competitors, calmly eating tree branches. Typical savannah animals are zebras, elephants, and ostriches.
Steppes
Steppes are found on all continents of the Earth, except Antarctica (in temperate and subtropical zones Northern and Southern Hemispheres). They are characterized by an abundance of solar heat, low precipitation (up to 400 mm per year), and warm or hot summers. The main vegetation of the steppes is grass. Steppes are called differently. In South America, the tropical steppes are called pampa, which in the Indian language means “a large area without forest.” Animals characteristic of the pampa are the llama, the armadillo, and the viscacha, a rodent similar to a rabbit.
In North America, steppes are called prairies. They are located in both temperate and subtropical climatic zones. The bison have long been the “kings” of the American prairies. By the end of the 19th century they were almost completely exterminated. Currently, through the efforts of the state and the public, the number of bison is being restored. Another resident of the prairies is the coyote - the steppe wolf. Along the banks of rivers in the bushes you can find a large spotted cat - a jaguar. Peccaries are a small boar-like animal also typical of the prairies.
The steppes of Eurasia are located in the temperate zone. They are very different from the American prairies and African savannas. It's drier here, sharper continental climate. In winter it is very cold (average temperature - 20°C), and in summer it is very hot (average temperature + 25°C), with strong winds. In summer, the vegetation of the steppes is sparse, but in spring the steppe is transformed: it blooms with many varieties of lilies, poppies, and tulips.
The flowering time does not last long, about 10 days. Then drought sets in, the steppe dries out, the colors fade, and by autumn everything turns yellow-gray.
The steppes contain the most fertile soils on Earth, so they are almost completely plowed. The treeless spaces of the temperate steppes are characterized by strong winds. Wind erosion of soils occurs very intensively here - dust storms are frequent. To preserve soil fertility, forest belts are planted, organic fertilizers and light agricultural machinery are used.
Deserts
Deserts occupy vast areas - up to 10% of the Earth's land area. They are located on all continents and in different climatic zones: temperate, subtropical, tropical and even polar.
The desert climates of the tropical and temperate zones have common features. Firstly, an abundance of solar heat, secondly, a large amplitude of temperatures between winter and summer, day and night, and thirdly, a small amount of precipitation (up to 150 mm per year). However, latest feature is also typical for polar deserts.
In the deserts of the tropical zone, the average summer temperature is +30°C, winter + 10°C. The greatest tropical deserts on Earth are located in Africa: the Sahara, Kalahari, Namib.
Plants and animals of deserts adapt to dry and hot climates. For example, a giant cactus can store up to 3000 liters of water and “not drink” for up to two years; and the Welwitschia plant, found in the Namib Desert, is capable of absorbing water from the air. The camel is an indispensable helper for humans in the desert. It can be without food and water for a long time, storing it in its humps.
The largest desert in Asia, Rub al-Khali, located on Arabian Peninsula, is also located in the tropical zone. The desert regions of North and South America and Australia are located in the tropical and subtropical climate zones.
The temperate deserts of Eurasia are also characterized by low precipitation and a large temperature range, both annual and daily. However, they are characterized by lower winter temperatures and a pronounced flowering period in the spring. Such deserts are located in Central Asia east of the Caspian Sea. The fauna is represented here various types snakes, rodents, scorpions, turtles, lizards. A typical plant is saxaul.
Polar deserts
Polar deserts are located in the polar regions of the Earth. The absolute minimum temperature recorded in Antarctica is 89.2 °C.
On average, winter temperatures are -30 °C, summer temperatures are 0 °C. Just like in the deserts of the tropical and temperate zones, the polar desert receives little precipitation, mainly in the form of snow. The polar night lasts almost half a year here, and the polar day lasts almost half a year. Antarctica is considered the most high continent on Earth, given the thickness of its ice shell at 4 km.
The indigenous inhabitants of the polar deserts of Antarctica are emperor penguins. They cannot fly, but they swim perfectly. They can dive to great depths and swim vast distances to escape their enemies - seals.
The northern polar region of the Earth - the Arctic - got its name from the ancient Greek arcticos - northern. The southern, as if opposite, polar region is Antarctica (anti - against). The Arctic occupies the island of Greenland, the islands of the Canadian Arctic Archipelago, as well as the islands and waters of the Northern Arctic Ocean. This area is covered with snow and ice all year round. The polar bear is rightfully considered the owner of these places.
Tundra
Tundra is a treeless natural area with vegetation of mosses, lichens and creeping shrubs. The tundra is distributed in the subarctic climate zone only in North America and Eurasia, which are characterized by harsh climatic conditions (little solar heat, low temperatures, short cold summers, low precipitation).
The moss lichen was called “reindeer moss” because it is the main food of reindeer. Arctic foxes and lemmings - small rodents - also live in the tundra. Among the sparse vegetation there are berry bushes: blueberries, lingonberries, blueberries, as well as dwarf trees: birch, willow.
Permafrost in the soil is a phenomenon characteristic of the tundra, as well as the Siberian taiga. As soon as you start digging a hole, at a depth of about 1 m you will encounter a frozen layer of earth several tens of meters thick. This phenomenon must be taken into account during construction, industrial and agricultural development of the territory.
Everything grows very slowly in the tundra. This is precisely why the need for careful attention to its nature is connected. For example, pastures overrun by deer are restored only after 15-20 years.
Altitudinal zone
Unlike flat areas, climatic zones and natural zones in the mountains change according to the law of vertical zonation, i.e. from bottom to top. This is due to the fact that the air temperature decreases with altitude. Consider, as an example, the greatest mountain system world - the Himalayas. Almost all natural zones of the Earth are represented here: tropical forest grows at the foot, at an altitude of 1500 m it is replaced by broad-leaved forests, which in turn turn into mixed forests at an altitude of 2000 m. Further, as you rise into the mountains, coniferous forests of Himalayan pine begin to predominate, fir and juniper. In winter, there is snow here for a long time and frosts persist.
Above 3500 m, shrubs and alpine meadows begin; they are called “alpine”. In summer, the meadows are covered with a carpet of brightly blooming herbs - poppies, primroses, gentians. Gradually the grasses become shorter. From approximately 4500 m altitude there is eternal snow and ice. The climatic conditions here are very harsh. Rare species of animals live in the mountains: mountain goat, chamois, argali, snow leopard.
Latitudinal zonation in the ocean
The world's oceans occupy more than 2/3 of the planet's surface. The physical properties and chemical composition of ocean waters are relatively constant and create an environment favorable for life. It is especially important for the life of plants and animals that oxygen and carbon dioxide coming from the air dissolve in water. Photosynthesis of algae occurs mainly in top layer water (up to 100 m).
Marine organisms live mainly in the surface layer of water illuminated by the Sun. These are the smallest plant and animal organisms - plankton (bacteria, algae, small animals), various fish and marine mammals (dolphins, whales, seals, etc.), squid, sea snakes and turtles.
On seabed there is life too. These are bottom algae, corals, crustaceans, and mollusks. They are called benthos (from the Greek benthos - deep). The biomass of the World Ocean is 1000 times less than the biomass of the Earth's land.
Distribution of life in world ocean unevenly and depends on the amount of solar energy received on its surface. Polar waters are poor in plankton due to low temperatures and the long polar night. The largest amount of plankton develops in the waters of the temperate zone in summer. The abundance of plankton attracts fish here. The temperate zones of the Earth are the most fishy areas of the World Ocean. In the tropical zone, the amount of plankton decreases again due to the high salinity of the water and high temperatures.
Formation of natural areas
From today's topic, we learned how diverse the natural complexes of our planet are. The natural zones of the Earth are replete with evergreen forests, endless steppes, and a variety of mountain ranges, hot and icy deserts.
Each corner of our planet is distinguished by its uniqueness, varied climate, relief, flora and fauna, and therefore different natural zones are formed on the territories of each continent.
Let's try to figure out what natural areas are, how they were formed, and what was the impetus for their formation.
Natural zones include those complexes that have similar soils, vegetation, fauna and similarities temperature regime. Natural zones received their names based on the type of vegetation, and are called such as taiga zone or deciduous forests, etc.
Natural zones are diverse due to the uneven redistribution of solar energy on the Earth's surface. This is where it lies main reason heterogeneity of the geographical envelope.
After all, if we consider one of the climatic zones, we will notice that those parts of the belt that are located closer to the ocean are more humidified than its continental parts. And this reason lies not so much in the amount of precipitation, but rather in the ratio of heat and moisture. Because of this, on some continents we experience a more humid climate, while on others we experience a drier climate.
And with the help of the redistribution of solar heat, we see how the same amount of moisture in some climate zones leads to excess moisture, and in others to a lack of moisture.
For example, in a hot tropical zone, a lack of moisture can cause drought and the formation of desert areas, while in the subtropics, excess moisture contributes to the formation of swamps.
So you learned that due to the difference in the amount of solar heat and moisture, different natural zones were formed.
Patterns of natural zones location
Natural zones of the Earth have clear patterns of their location, extending in the latitudinal direction and changing from north to south. Most often, a change in natural zones is observed in the direction from the coast making its way inland.
In mountainous areas there is an altitudinal zone, which changes from one zone to another, starting from the foot and moving towards the mountain peaks.
In the World Ocean, zones change from the equator to the poles. Here, changes in natural areas are reflected in the surface composition of waters, as well as differences in vegetation and fauna.
Features of the natural zones of the continents
Since planet Earth has a spherical surface, the Sun heats it unevenly. Those areas of the surface above which the Sun is high receive the most heat. And where Sun rays only glide over the Earth - a more severe climate prevails.
And although on different continents the vegetation and animals have similar features, they are influenced by climate, topography, geology and people. Therefore, it so happened historically that, due to changes in topography and climate, people live on different continents. different types plants and animals.
There are continents where endemic species are found, inhabited only by certain type living creatures and plants that are characteristic of these continents. For example, polar bears can only be found in nature in the Arctic, and kangaroos can only be found in Australia. But in African and South American shrouds there are similar species, although they have certain differences.
But human activity contributes to changes that occur in the geographical environment, and under such influence natural areas also change.
Questions and tasks to prepare for the exam
1. Create an interaction plan natural ingredients in the natural complex and explain it.
2. How do the concepts “ natural complex", "geographical envelope", "biosphere", "natural zone"? Show with a diagram.
3. Name the zonal type of soil for tundra, taiga, mixed and deciduous forest zones.
4. Where is the soil cover more difficult to restore: in the steppes of Southern Russia or in the tundra? Why?
5. What is the reason for the difference in the thickness of the fertile soil layer in different natural zones? What does soil fertility depend on?
6. What types of plants and animals are characteristic of the tundra and why?
7. What organisms live on the surface of the waters of the World Ocean?
8. Which of the following animals can be found in the African savanna: rhinoceros, lion, giraffe, tiger, tapir, baboon, llama, hedgehog, zebra, hyena?
9. In what forests is it impossible to determine its age from the cut of a cut tree?
10. What measures, in your opinion, will help preserve the human habitat?
Maksakovsky V.P., Petrova N.N., Physical and economical geography peace. - M.: Iris-press, 2010. - 368 pp.: ill.
A latitudinal natural strip of land or oceans that has uniform thermal conditions and atmospheric humidification, and accordingly relative homogeneous elements of landscapes, is integral part geographic zone of the Earth. Syn.:… … Dictionary of Geography
natural area- — EN natural area An area in which natural processes predominate, fluctuations in numbers of organisms are allowed free play and human intervention is minimal. (Source: LANDY) EN sensitive natural area Terrestrial or aquatic area or other fragile natural setting with unique or highly valued environmental features. (Source: EPAGLO)… … Technical Translator's Guide
Specially protected natural area- 025 Specially protected natural area (Figure A.24) Standardized graphic content: silhouette of a tree next to the silhouette of an animal. Purpose: indication of the location of a protected area intended to protect flora and fauna. Region... ... Dictionary-reference book of terms of normative and technical documentation
Natural area, regional landscape unit, meaning a significant area with special type climate, specific plant and soil cover and fauna. Geographical zone is one of higher levels latitudinal zonal physical... ... Ecological dictionary
Natural area with an arid climate; zone of deserts and semi-deserts. Here farming is possible only with artificial irrigation. Ecological encyclopedic dictionary. Chisinau: Main editorial office of Moldavian Soviet encyclopedia. I.I. Dedu. 1989 ... Ecological dictionary
Zone of secondary intergradation, a natural zone within the range of a species in which secondary contact (meeting, gene exchange) of previously geographically isolated (diverging, allopatric) populations occurs. It has crucial at… … Ecological dictionary
A natural zone distinguished by the characteristics of relief-forming processes. Ecological encyclopedic dictionary. Chisinau: Main editorial office of the Moldavian Soviet Encyclopedia. I.I. Dedu. 1989 ... Ecological dictionary
Antarctic desert zone- The natural area, including Antarctica and nearby islands, has a harsh Antarctic climate and sparse polar vegetation... Dictionary of Geography
Books
- The Elusive World: The Ecological Consequences of Habitat Loss, Hanski I.. The book is dedicated to the analysis environmental consequences loss and fragmentation of habitats resulting from intensive human activities and of great importance to...
- An elusive world. Ecological consequences of habitat loss, Ilkka Hanski. The book is devoted to the analysis of the environmental consequences of the loss and fragmentation of habitats that occur as a result of intensive human economic activity and are of great importance for...
There are several principles according to which the territories of countries are divided. Thus, each state can be divided into territories, regions and districts, but biologists and zoologists prefer a different system - the allocation of natural zones. Since Russia has a fairly large extent in the direction from north to south, it is also conventionally divided into natural zones. How many natural zones are there in Russia? Eight different natural areas. Each of these territories is characterized by its own special climate, and also has certain differences in diversity flora. Let's look at the natural zones on the territory of Russia in a little more detail (we'll figure out what they are and how many there are), and also give short description each of these territories.
What are the natural areas in Russia?
Arctic desert zone
This territory covers the islands of the Arctic Ocean, as well as the extreme north of the peninsula called Taimyr. A significant area of this zone is covered with glaciers, and there is a long-lasting and fairly harsh winter, and summer is cold and also very short. A large proportion of Arctic deserts consists of stone placers; the soils here are practically undeveloped. As for the vegetation cover, in this area it is quite sparse and spotty. Most of the flora is lichens, mosses, and algae. They can group only in a place sheltered from cold winds. In fertilized areas, there are also higher plants, represented by quarry, polar poppy, croup, chickweed, bluegrass, etc. Near patches of snow you can find ice buttercup and polar willow, the size of which does not exceed five centimeters.
Tundra zone
Includes territories near the coast of the seas of the Arctic Ocean, starting from western border and all the way to the Bering Strait. The tundra is also characterized by a long winter, but a little more warm summer. A characteristic feature of such a zone is permafrost. The vegetation here is mainly represented by mosses, lichens, shrubs and shrubs. For all tundra plants, the root system can develop only in a small space that is not frozen, and the crops themselves do not rise particularly above the ground.
Forest-tundra zone
This area is located along southern borders tundra zone. It is considered a transitional area from the tundra to the taiga. Feature forest-tundra – the presence of sparse forests in the interfluves. The climate of this zone is represented by cold and snowy winters, as well as warmer summers and lower wind speeds than in the tundra.
The sparse forests of such areas consist of larches, birches and Siberian spruce. On the slopes river valleys and terraces there are many meadows composed of buttercups, valerian, berries and lights.
Taiga
Such a zone has largest area, it stretches from the western border of Russia all the way to the coast of the Okhotsk and also the Sea of Japan. The main type of vegetation in this zone is represented by light-coniferous and dark-coniferous forests. The bulk of the forests consists of larch; pine, spruce, and fir or Siberian cedar forests are slightly less common. In the territories of the Far Eastern Primorye, southern varieties of trees are also found, represented by Amur velvet and Manchurian walnut.
Mixed and broad-leaved forests
Such a zone is located just south of the taiga in the region of the Russian Plain; it is not inside the continent, but it is again observed on southern territories Far East. The north of this zone is characterized by coniferous-deciduous forests mixed type, and for the south - broad-leaved forests with a multi-tiered structure. Today, forests occupy about thirty percent of the area of such a zone, and contain many small-leaved species, represented by birches, aspens and alders.
Forest-steppe zone
This area is transitional from steppe to forest; accordingly, both forest and steppe vegetation can be seen on it. In the interfluves of the forest-steppe, forests with broad-leaved and small-leaved trees alternate. The natural nature of such an area has changed greatly due to human activity. The main forest-forming species of the forest-steppe is oak; in Western Siberia there are many birch groves. And the steppes of such a zone are characterized by colorful forbs.
Steppe zone
Such territories in Russia have a fairly small area, covering the southern part of the European part, as well as the south of Western Siberia. Almost all steppes are now plowed.
Natural vegetation is represented by grasses and turf grasses (feather grass, fescue, steppe oats, bluegrass, etc.). The northern regions of the steppe are characterized by forbs and grasses, while the southern regions are characterized by feather grass and fescue vegetation.
Semi-deserts and deserts
Such territories in Russia are located in the Caspian region, as well as in the Eastern Ciscaucasia. Here, as in the steppe, there are no forests. The vegetation is represented by different crops, for example, in depressions with a significant amount of humus, fescue, wheatgrass, thin-legged grass, etc. are found, and salt licks are covered with blue-green algae. In the northern territories, the bulk of plants are represented by cereals with an admixture of wormwood, and in the southern territories there is more wormwood, the number of saltworts and ephemerals increases, and the overall plant cover is characterized by greater sparseness.
We have given a description of the natural zones of Russia. Each natural zone has a fairly large extent, maintaining certain common features on its territory: climate, humidity level, type of soil and vegetation.
The humidification coefficient is a special indicator developed by meteorologists to assess the degree of climate humidity in a particular region. It was taken into account that climate is a long-term characteristic weather conditions in this area. Therefore, it was also decided to consider the humidification coefficient over a long time frame: as a rule, this coefficient is calculated based on data collected during the year.
Thus, the humidification coefficient shows how much precipitation falls during this period in the region in question. This, in turn, is one of the main factors determining the predominant type of vegetation in this area.
The formula for calculating the moisture coefficient looks like in the following way: K = R / E. In the indicated formula, the symbol K denotes the actual moisture coefficient, and the symbol R denotes the amount of precipitation that fell in a given area during the year, expressed in millimeters. Finally, the symbol E represents the amount of precipitation that evaporated from the earth's surface during the same period of time.
The indicated amount of precipitation, which is also expressed in millimeters, depends on the type of soil, the temperature in a given region at a particular time and other factors. Therefore, despite the apparent simplicity of the given formula, the calculation of the humidification coefficient requires large quantity preliminary measurements using precision instruments and can only be carried out by a sufficiently large team of meteorologists.
In turn, the value of the moisture coefficient in a specific area, taking into account all these indicators, as a rule, allows high degree reliably determine which type of vegetation is predominant in this region. So, if the humidification coefficient exceeds 1, this indicates high level humidity in a given area, which entails the predominance of vegetation types such as taiga, tundra or forest-tundra.
A sufficient level of moisture corresponds to a moisture coefficient of 1 and is usually characterized by the predominance of mixed or broad-leaved forests. A humidification coefficient ranging from 0.6 to 1 is typical for forest-steppe areas, from 0.3 to 0.6 - for steppes, from 0.1 to 0.3 - for semi-desert areas, and from 0 to 0.1 - for deserts .
Attention, TODAY only!
Home Atmospheric Humidification
On earth's surface Two oppositely directed processes constantly occur - irrigation of the area by precipitation and drying it out by evaporation. Both of these processes merge into a single and contradictory process atmospheric humidification, which is usually understood as the ratio of precipitation and evaporation.
There are more than twenty ways of expressing atmospheric humidification. The indicators are called indexes And coefficients or dryness or atmospheric humidification. The most famous are the following:
Hydrothermal coefficient G.T . Selyaninova :
GTK = 10 R / Et, where
R—monthly precipitation,
Еt — sum of temperatures for the same time; it is close to the volatility indicator.
Radiation index of dryness M.I.Budyko:
Ri = R / LE – the ratio of the radiation balance to the amount of heat, which is extremely important for the evaporation of precipitation over the year.
In the range of the radiation dryness index from 0.35 to 1.1 there are humid zones (tundra zone and forest zones different latitudes); from 1.1 to 2.2 – semi-humid zones (forest-steppe, savanna, steppe); from 2.2 to 3.4 – semi-deserts; over 3.4 – deserts.
Humidification coefficient G.N. Vysotsky - N.N. Ivanova:
where R is the amount of precipitation (in mm) per month,
Ep – monthly evaporation.
It is best expressed as a percentage (٪). For example, in the tundra precipitation falls 300 mm, but evaporation is only 200 mm.
502: Bad Gateway
Consequently, precipitation exceeds evaporation by 1.5 times; atmospheric humidification is 150%, or K = 1.5.
Humidification happens redundant more than 100%, or K>1.0, when more precipitation falls than can evaporate; sufficient at which the amount of precipitation and evaporation are approximately equal (about 100%), or K = 1.0; insufficient less than 100%, or K< 1,0, если испаряемость превосходит количество осадков; в последней градации полезно выделить ничтожное увлажнение, в котором осадки составляют ничтожную (13% и меньше, или = 0,13) долю испаряемости.
In the tundra zone, temperate forests and equatorial forests, moisture is excessive (from 100 to 150%).
In forest-steppe and savannas it is normal - a little more or less than 100%, usually from 99 to 60%.
From the forest-steppe towards deserts of temperate latitudes and from savannas to tropical deserts, humidity decreases; it is insufficient everywhere: in the steppes 60%, in dry steppes from 60 to 30%, in semi-deserts less than 30% and in deserts from 13 to 10%.
According to the degree of humidity, zones are humid - humid with excess moisture and arid - dry with insufficient moisture. The degree of aridity and humidity varies and is expressed by the ratio of precipitation and evaporation.
Droughts. In forest-steppe and steppe zones, where humidity is 100% or slightly less, even a slight decrease in precipitation leads to droughts. Meanwhile, the variability of monthly precipitation amounts here fluctuates around 50-70%, and in some places reaches 90%.
Drought - a long, sometimes up to 60-70 days, spring or summer period without rain or with precipitation below normal and with high temperatures. As a result, soil moisture reserves dry up, the yield decreases or even dies.
Distinguish atmospheric And soil drought. The first is characterized by a lack of precipitation, low humidity and high temperature air. The second is expressed in drying out the soil, leading to the death of plants. Soil drought can be shorter than atmospheric drought due to the spring reserves of moisture in the soil or its supply from the ground.
Droughts occur during years of particularly intense atmospheric circulation, when anticyclones are stable and extensive on the Great Continental Axis of Voeikov, and the descending air heats up and dries out.
News and society
What is the humidification coefficient and how is it determined?
The water cycle in nature is one of the most important processes in the geographical environment. It is based on two interrelated processes: moistening the earth's surface with precipitation and evaporation of moisture from it into the atmosphere. Both of these processes precisely determine the moisture coefficient for a specific area. What is the moisture coefficient and how is it determined? This is exactly what it's about we'll talk in this information article.
Humidity coefficient: definition
Humidification of a territory and evaporation of moisture from its surface occur in exactly the same way all over the world. However, when asked what the humidification coefficient is, different countries the planets respond completely differently. And the concept itself in this formulation is not accepted in all countries. For example, in the USA it is “precipitation-evaporation ratio”, which can be literally translated as “index (ratio) of moisture and evaporation”.
But what is the moisture coefficient? This is a certain relationship between the amount of precipitation and the level of evaporation in a given area for a specific period of time. The formula for calculating this coefficient is very simple:
where O is the amount of precipitation (in millimeters);
and I is the evaporation value (also in millimeters).
Different approaches to determining the coefficient
How to determine the moisture coefficient? Today there are about 20 different methods known.
In our country (as well as in post-Soviet space) the determination method proposed by Georgy Nikolaevich Vysotsky is most often used. He is an outstanding Ukrainian scientist, geobotanist and soil scientist, the founder of forest science. During his life he wrote over 200 scientific papers.
It is worth noting that in Europe, as well as in the USA, the Torthwaite coefficient is used. However, the method for calculating it is much more complicated and has its drawbacks.
Video on the topic
Determination of the coefficient
Define this indicator for a specific territory is not at all difficult. Let's look at this technique using the following example.
The territory for which the moisture coefficient needs to be calculated is given. Moreover, it is known that this territory receives 900 mm of atmospheric precipitation per year, and evaporates from it over the same period of time - 600 mm. To calculate the coefficient, you should divide the amount of precipitation by evaporation, that is, 900/600 mm. As a result, we get a value of 1.5. This will be the moisture coefficient for this area.
The Ivanov-Vysotsky humidification coefficient can be equal to unity, be lower or higher than 1. Moreover, if:
- K = 0, then moisture for a given area is considered sufficient;
- K is greater than 1, then the moisture is excessive;
- K is less than 1, then the moisture is insufficient.
The value of this indicator, of course, will directly depend on the temperature regime in a particular area, as well as on the amount of precipitation falling per year.
What is the humidification factor used for?
The Ivanov-Vysotsky coefficient is an extremely important climate indicator.
After all, he is able to give a picture of the security of the area water resources. This coefficient is simply necessary for the development of agriculture, as well as for general economic planning of the territory.
It also determines the level of dryness of the climate: the higher it is, the wetter the climate. In areas with excess moisture, there is always an abundance of lakes and wetlands. The vegetation cover is dominated by meadow and forest vegetation.
The maximum values of the coefficient are typical for high mountain areas (above 1000-1200 meters). Here, as a rule, there is an excess of moisture, which can reach 300-500 millimeters per year! The steppe zone receives the same amount of atmospheric moisture per year. The humidification coefficient in mountainous regions reaches maximum values: 1.8-2.4.
Excessive moisture is also observed in the natural zone of taiga, tundra, forest-tundra, and temperate broad-leaved forests. In these areas the coefficient is no more than 1.5. In the forest-steppe zone it ranges from 0.7 to 1.0, but in the steppe zone there is already insufficient moisture in the territory (K = 0.3-0.6).
Minimum humidity values are typical for the semi-desert zone (about 0.2-0.3 in total), as well as for the desert zone (up to 0.1).
Humidity coefficient in Russia
Russia is a huge country characterized by a wide variety of climatic conditions. If we talk about the moisture coefficient, its values within Russia vary widely from 0.3 to 1.5. The poorest humidity is observed in the Caspian region (about 0.3). In the steppe and forest-steppe zones it is slightly higher - 0.5-0.8. Maximum moisture is typical for the forest-tundra zone, as well as for the high mountain regions of the Caucasus, Altai, and Ural Mountains.
Now you know what the moisture coefficient is. This is a fairly important indicator that plays a very important role important role for development National economy and agro-industrial complex. This coefficient depends on two values: on the amount of precipitation and on the volume of evaporation during certain segment time.
Comments
Similar materials
Cars
What are valve stem seals and how do they work?
Of course, lubrication is necessary for the normal operation of the engine and its components. Interestingly, oil getting into the combustion chamber itself can lead to a major overhaul of the entire internal combustion engine. But his presence is on the wall...
Cars
What is a center differential and how does it work?
The center differential is the most effective method increasing the cross-country ability of any vehicle. On this moment Almost all SUVs, including some crossovers, are equipped with this element. TO…
Cars
What is a boost controller and how does it work?
Turbocharged engines have many advantages over conventional ones. One of the advantages of these units is their power. To increase engine performance, simply increase the boost pressure. And you do...
Cars
What is a 1ZZ engine and how does it work?
The 1ZZ engine first appeared in the late 90s. At that time, this unit was a completely new representative of the family of Japanese engines. At first, this engine was installed on the world famous…
Home comfort
What is a mezzanine floor and what does it look like?
The high ceiling is an undoubted advantage of the room; it allows you to create additional space, for example, a mezzanine floor. To implement the idea, it is necessary to create a project for which, as rights...
Home comfort
What is an angle clamp, and how is it designed?
Probably, each of us has had to assemble furniture in our lives, and therefore many know that when drilling several boards, the slightest shift of parts can lead to inconsistency between both devices. As a result this...
Home comfort
What is pipeline installation and how is it done?
Building a house involves a fairly large number of different technological operations. You can find almost everything here construction works, starting from pouring the foundation and ending with gluing the wallpaper...
Spiritual development
What are magic items and how do they work?
Not only children are fascinated by all kinds of magical objects. Even an accomplished adult can regret in his hearts that he does not have with a magic wand or some other miracle that can solve pressing problems...
Spiritual development
What is a totem animal and how to determine it by date of birth
Many people are interested in the question of what a totem animal is. This article contains basic information about methods of finding it and gaining a spiritual connection with it. It is important to know that a totem is a symbol of one or another...
Food and drink
What is powder wine and how to define it?
Concentrated and reconstituted juices no longer surprise anyone today. Almost 100% of drinks sold in stores today are diluted concentrates. That is, initially the juice was condensed so that it...
HUMIDIFICATION RATIO
| www.asyan.org | 1 2 3 Work in groups
Mixed and broad-leaved forests, forest-steppes
Steppes, semi-deserts and deserts
|
Using the textbook text, fill in the table
Work in pairs
Exercise 1
- determine the change in temperature, precipitation, evaporation in Western Siberia from west to east.
- What is the reason for the increase in precipitation in the eastern part?
Task 2
- Determine the change in temperature, precipitation and evaporation in Western Siberia from north to south.
- In what part of the plain? excessive moisture?
- Geographical position
- Relief
- Minerals
- Climate (average temperatures in January, July, annual precipitation, humidity)
- Water - rivers, lakes, permafrost
- Natural area
- Occupations of the population (hunting, fishing, mining...)
- Problems and solutions
Mark the following objects on the map:
Altai, Western Sayan, Eastern Sayan, Salair Ridge, Kuznetsk Alatau, Baikal, Khoma-Daban, Borschovochny Ridge, Stanovoy, Yablonovy.
Highlands: Patomskoye, Aldanskoye
Peaks: Belukha
Basins: Kuznetsk, Minusinsk, Tuva.
Fill the table
Describe PTC
- Karelia
- Yamal Peninsula
- Altai
- Volga Upland
- Northern Urals
- Taimyr Peninsula
- Sakhalin island
| № | Question | Point (for the correct answer) |
| 1 | Geographical location (which region of Russia it belongs to, position in the region) | 5 |
| 2 | Geological structure and relief (age of the territory, nature earth's crust, mountainous or flat terrain) Predominant height and greatest height. Influence external processes on the formation of relief (glacier, water erosion, anthropogenic influence...) |
5 |
| 3 | Minerals (why exactly like that) | 5 |
| 4 | Climatic (zone, climate type, average temperatures in January and July, precipitation, winds, special phenomena) | 5 |
| 5 | Waters (rivers, lakes, swamps, permafrost, The groundwater). Features of rivers - basin, ocean, nutrition, regime) | 4 |
| 6 | Natural areas, their use and protection | 4 |
| 7 | Soils | 4 |
| 8 | Plants and animals | 3 |
| 9 | Environmental problems of the territory | 5 |
- Kamchatka
- Chukotka
- Sakhalin
- Commander Islands
- Geographical position
- Who studied the territory
- Relief (mountains, plains, volcanoes, earthquakes)
- Minerals
- Climate (type of climate, when is the best time to visit?)
- What to wear, what to take with you
- Natural uniqueness - what to see?
- What you can do - fishing, climbing to the top, hunting...
- Steppe people
- Pomors
- You live in the taiga
- You live in the tundra
- Highlanders
- Main occupation of the population
- Additional activities (trading, crafts)
- Where are settlements located?
- What is a house made of?
- What are clothes made from?
- Means of transport
- What are they buying and selling from residents of neighboring areas?
Fill the table
Presentation
Environmental situation in Russia
- Acid rain and its consequences
- Water pollution
- Soil pollution
What is humidification coefficient and how to calculate it
Humidity coefficient is an indicator used to determine climate parameters. It can be calculated by having information about precipitation in the region over a fairly long period.
Humidity coefficient
The humidification coefficient is a special indicator developed by meteorologists to assess the degree of climate humidity in a particular region. It was taken into account that climate is a long-term characteristic of weather conditions in a given area. Therefore, it was also decided to consider the humidification coefficient over a long time frame: as a rule, this coefficient is calculated on the basis of data collected during the year. Thus, the humidification coefficient shows how much precipitation falls during this period in the region under consideration. This, in turn, is one of the main factors determining the predominant type of vegetation in this area.
Humidity coefficient calculation
The formula for calculating the humidification coefficient is as follows: K = R / E. In this formula, the symbol K denotes the actual humidification coefficient, and the symbol R denotes the amount of precipitation that fell in a given area during the year, expressed in millimeters. Finally, the symbol E represents the amount of precipitation that evaporated from the earth's surface during the same period of time. The indicated amount of precipitation, which is also expressed in millimeters, depends on the type of soil, the temperature in a given region at a particular time and other factors. Therefore, despite the apparent simplicity of the given formula, the calculation of the humidification coefficient requires a large number of preliminary measurements using precision instruments and can only be carried out by a sufficiently large team of meteorologists. In turn, the value of the humidification coefficient in a specific territory, taking into account all these indicators, as a rule , allows us to determine with a high degree of reliability which type of vegetation is predominant in this region.
Humidity coefficient
So, if the humidity coefficient exceeds 1, this indicates a high level of humidity in the given area, which entails the predominance of such types of vegetation as taiga, tundra or forest-tundra. A sufficient level of moisture corresponds to a moisture coefficient of 1 and is usually characterized by the predominance of mixed or broad-leaved forests. A humidification coefficient ranging from 0.6 to 1 is typical for forest-steppe areas, from 0.3 to 0.6 - for steppes, from 0.1 to 0.3 - for semi-desert areas, and from 0 to 0.1 - for deserts .
Humidity coefficient
Humidity coefficient is the ratio of average annual precipitation to average annual evaporation. Evaporation is the amount of moisture that can evaporate from a certain surface. Both precipitation and evaporation are measured in millimeters. You can find out evaporation experimentally - place a wide open container of water and constantly note how much water evaporates over time. So throughout the entire frost-free period. In fact, evaporation also occurs from the surface of the snow. Methods for calculating it exist; they are studied by the science of ice - glaciology.
Humidity coefficient, abbreviated K moist. - important geographical indicator. If there is more precipitation than moisture can evaporate (K moist >1), then excess water accumulates on the surface of the earth and waterlogging will occur in depressions. This is what happens, for example, in natural areas such as tundra and taiga. If the amount of precipitation is equal to evaporation (K moisture = 1), then theoretically all the precipitation can evaporate. This best conditions for plants there is enough moisture, but there is no stagnation. This is typical for the zone of mixed (coniferous-deciduous) forests. If there is less precipitation and evaporation (To uvl.< 1), значит в году будут сезоны, более или менее продолжительные, когда влаги хватать не будет. Для растений это не очень хорошо. На территории России такие условия характерны для природных зон, находящихся южнее смешанных лесов — лесостепи, степи и полупустыни.
The moisture content of an area is determined not only by the amount of precipitation, but also by evaporation. With the same amount of precipitation, but different evaporation, moisture conditions can be different.
To characterize humidification conditions, humidification coefficients are used. There are more than 20 ways to express it. The most common moisture indicators are:
- Hydrothermal coefficient G.T. Selyaninova.
where R is monthly precipitation;
Σt – sum of temperatures per month (close to the evaporation rate).
- Vysotsky-Ivanov humidification coefficient.
where R is the amount of precipitation for the month;
E p – monthly evaporation.
Humidification coefficient is about 1 – normal humidification, less than 1 – insufficient, more than 1 – excessive.
- Radiation index of dryness M.I. Budyko.
where R i is the radiation dryness index, it shows the ratio of the radiation balance R to the amount of heat Lr required to evaporate precipitation per year (L is the latent heat of evaporation).
The radiation dryness index shows what proportion of residual radiation is spent on evaporation. If there is less heat than is required to evaporate the annual amount of precipitation, there will be excess moisture. At R i 0.45, moisture is excessive; at R i = 0.45-1.00, the moisture is sufficient; at R i = 1.00-3.00, the moisture is insufficient.
Atmospheric humidification
The amount of precipitation without taking into account landscape conditions is an abstract quantity, because it does not determine the moisture conditions of the territory. Thus, in the tundra of Yamal and the semi-deserts of the Caspian lowland, the same amount of precipitation falls - about 300 mm, but in the first case there is excessive moisture, there is a lot of swamping, in the second there is insufficient moisture, the vegetation here is dry-loving, xerophytic.
Humidification of a territory is understood as the relationship between the amount of precipitation ( R), precipitation in a given area, and evaporation ( E n) for the same period (year, season, month). This ratio, expressed as a percentage or fraction of a unit, is called the moisture coefficient ( K yв = R/E n) (according to N.N. Ivanov). The humidification coefficient shows either excess moisture (K uv > 1), if precipitation exceeds evaporation possible at a given temperature, or various degrees insufficient moisture (K uv<1), если осадки меньше испаряемости.
The nature of moisture, i.e. the ratio of heat and moisture in the atmosphere, is the main reason for the existence of natural plant zones on Earth.
Based on hydrothermal conditions, several types of territories are distinguished:
1. Areas with excess moisture – TO UV is greater than 1, i.e. 100-150%. These are zones of tundra and forest-tundra, and with sufficient heat - forests of temperate, tropical and equatorial latitudes. Such waterlogged areas are called humid, and wetlands are called extra-humid (Latin humidus - wet).
2. Territories of optimal (sufficient) moisture are narrow zones where TO uv about 1 (approximately 100%). Within their limits, there is a proportionality between the amount of precipitation and evaporation. These are narrow strips of broad-leaved forests, sparse variable-humid forests and humid savannas. The conditions here are favorable for the growth of mesophilic plants.
3. Territories of moderately insufficient (unstable) moisture. There are different degrees of unstable moisture: areas with TO HC = 1-0.6 (100-60%) are typical for meadow steppes (forest-steppes) and savannas, with TO HC = 0.6-0.3 (60-30%) – dry steppes, dry savannas. They are characterized by a dry season, which makes agricultural development difficult due to frequent droughts.
4. Territories of insufficient moisture. There are arid zones (Latin aridus - dry) with TO HC = 0.3-0.1 (30-10%), semi-deserts and extra-arid zones with TO HC less than 0.1 (less than 10%) – deserts.
In areas with excessive moisture, the abundance of moisture negatively affects the processes of soil aeration (ventilation), i.e., the gas exchange of soil air with atmospheric air. A lack of oxygen in the soil is formed due to the filling of the pores with water, which is why air does not enter there. This disrupts biological aerobic processes in the soil, and the normal development of many plants is disrupted or even stopped. In such areas, hygrophyte plants grow and hygrophilous animals live, which are adapted to damp and humid habitats. To involve territories with excess moisture in economic, primarily agricultural, turnover, drainage reclamation is necessary, i.e., measures aimed at improving the water regime of the territory, removing excess water (drainage).
There are more areas on Earth with insufficient moisture than waterlogged ones. In arid zones, farming without irrigation is impossible. The main reclamation measures in them are irrigation - artificial replenishment of moisture reserves in the soil for the normal development of plants and watering - the creation of sources of moisture (ponds, wells and other reservoirs) for domestic and economic needs and watering for livestock.
Under natural conditions, plants adapted to dryness—xerophytes—grow in deserts and semi-deserts. They usually have a powerful root system capable of extracting moisture from the soil, small leaves, sometimes turned into needles and thorns in order to evaporate less moisture, stems and leaves are often covered with a waxy coating. A special group of plants among them are succulents that accumulate moisture in their stems or leaves (cacti, agaves, aloe). Succulents grow only in warm tropical deserts, where there are no negative air temperatures. Desert animals - xerophiles - are also adapted to dryness in different ways, for example, they hibernate during the driest period (gophers), and are content with the moisture contained in their food (some rodents).
Droughts are common in areas with insufficient moisture. In deserts and semi-deserts these are annual phenomena. In the steppes, which are often called the arid zone, and in the forest-steppe, droughts occur in the summer once every few years, sometimes affecting the end of spring - the beginning of autumn. Drought is a long (1-3 months) period without rain or with very little rainfall, at elevated temperatures and low absolute and relative humidity of air and soil. There are atmospheric and soil droughts. Atmospheric drought occurs earlier. Due to high temperatures and a large moisture deficit, plant transpiration increases sharply; the roots do not have time to supply moisture to the leaves, and they wither. Soil drought is expressed in the drying out of the soil, due to which the normal functioning of plants is completely disrupted and they die. Soil drought is shorter than atmospheric drought due to the spring reserves of moisture in the soil and groundwater. Droughts are caused by anticyclonic weather patterns. In anticyclones, the air descends, adiabatically heats up and dries out. Along the periphery of anticyclones, winds are possible - hot winds with high temperatures and low relative humidity (up to 10–15%), which increase evaporation and have an even more destructive effect on plants.
In the steppes, irrigation is most effective when there is sufficient river flow. Additional measures include snow accumulation - maintaining stubble in the fields and planting shrubs along the edges of beams to prevent snow from blowing into them, and snow retention - rolling snow, creating snow banks, covering the snow with straw in order to increase the duration of snow melting and replenish groundwater reserves. Forest shelterbelts are also effective, as they delay the runoff of melted snow water and lengthen the snowmelt period. Windbreaks (windbreaks) of long forest strips, planted in several rows, weaken the speed of winds, including dry winds, and thereby reduce moisture evaporation.
Literature
- Zubaschenko E.M. Regional physical geography. Climates of the Earth: educational and methodological manual. Part 1. / E.M. Zubaschenko, V.I. Shmykov, A.Ya. Nemykin, N.V. Polyakova. – Voronezh: VSPU, 2007. – 183 p.