US Geography in the 21st Century
The United States is a country full of diverse geography, from the Appalachian Mountains in the East to the Great Plains in the middle and the Rocky Mountains in the West. In the 21st century, the US has seen a number of changes in its geography due to human-caused climate change and other factors. This article will discuss the geography of the United States and the changes it has undergone since the turn of the century.
Landforms
The United States is made up of a variety of different landforms, including mountains, plateaus, plains, and valleys. The Appalachian Mountains, located in the East, are some of the oldest mountains in the world and are home to a variety of different ecosystems and wildlife. The Great Plains, located in the middle of the country, span an area of about 1.2 million square miles and feature some of the most productive agricultural land in the world. The Rocky Mountains, located in the West, are one of the most iconic mountain ranges in the world and are home to some of the most impressive natural scenery in the US.
Climate
The climate of the US is highly varied, with the East Coast typically experiencing a humid subtropical climate and the West Coast typically experiencing a Mediterranean climate. In the middle of the country, the Great Plains typically experience a semi-arid climate. In the northern part of the country, the climate is typically cold and snowy, while the southern part of the country typically has hot and humid summers.
Population
The population of the US has grown significantly since the turn of the century, with the current population estimated at more than 330 million people. The population is highly concentrated in the East and West Coasts, with the majority of the population living in metropolitan areas such as New York City and Los Angeles. The population of the Great Plains is much more sparse, with a number of small towns and rural areas.
Natural Resources
The US is home to a variety of natural resources, including oil, natural gas, coal, and timber. In addition, the US is home to a variety of minerals, including gold, silver, and copper. These resources are used to fuel the US economy and are responsible for much of the nation’s wealth.
Changes to US Geography
Over the past two decades, the US has experienced a number of changes to its geography due to human-caused climate change. For example, the Arctic region has experienced rapid warming, leading to the melting of sea ice and the displacement of wildlife. Additionally, sea levels have risen significantly, leading to flooding in coastal areas and the disruption of ecosystems. In addition, the number and intensity of extreme weather events, such as hurricanes, have increased significantly.
Conclusion
The geography of the United States has undergone a number of changes since the turn of the century, due to human-caused climate change and other factors. The US is home to a variety of different landforms, climates, populations, and natural resources, and these have all been affected in some way by the changes to the geography that have occurred in the 21st century. As the world continues to grapple with the effects of climate change, it is important to understand the geography of the US and how it has been affected by these changes.