Physical Regions of the United States Quiz
Appalachians, Rockies, Coastal Plains (10 questions).
Physical Regions of the United States Quiz: Quick Study Notes
This quiz tests your knowledge of the major topographic landscapes that define the United States, focusing on the ancient Appalachian Mountains in the East, the rugged Rocky Mountains in the West, and the extensive Coastal Plains bordering the oceans.
Key Takeaways
- The Appalachians are significantly older and lower in elevation than the Rockies.
- The Coastal Plains provide excellent harbors and fertile land for agriculture.
- The Continental Divide in the Rockies determines whether rivers flow east toward the Atlantic/Gulf or west toward the Pacific.
- Mount Mitchell in the Appalachians is the highest peak east of the Mississippi River.
- Resource extraction, such as coal mining, has been historically vital to the Appalachian economy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main physical difference between the Rockies and the Appalachians?
The Rockies are geologically young, resulting in high, sharp, jagged peaks. The Appalachians are ancient (hundreds of millions of years older) and have been worn down by erosion into lower, rounded mountains.
Where are the Coastal Plains located?
The Coastal Plains stretch along the Atlantic Coast from New York down to Florida, and wrap around the Gulf Coast through Texas. They are characterized by flat terrain and low elevation.
What is the Continental Divide?
It is a drainage divide along the crest of the Rocky Mountains. Precipitation falling on the west side flows toward the Pacific Ocean, while water on the east side flows toward the Atlantic Ocean or Gulf of Mexico.
Why is the Fall Line important to US geography?
The Fall Line marks the head of navigation for many rivers. Cities like Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Richmond grew here because ships could not travel further upstream due to waterfalls.
What is the highest peak in the Appalachian Mountains?
Mount Mitchell in North Carolina is the highest peak in the Appalachian range, standing at 6,684 feet.
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