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Chapter 8, Section 1: Physical Geography Central America and the Caribbean The Big Idea • The physical geography of Central America and the Caribbean islands includes warm coastal lowlands, cooler highlands, and tropical forests. Physical Features Central America • The region of Central America is the southern part of North America. • Central America is an isthmus, or narrow strip of land that connects two larger land areas. • The ruggedness of the mountains and volcanoes plus lack of water routes makes travel difficult. Physical Features Caribbean Islands • The Caribbean is made up of hundreds of islands known as an archipelago. • The two main island groups in the Caribbean are the Greater Antilles and Lesser Antilles • Many Caribbean islands are tops of underwater mountains and volcanoes. They are located along edges of tectonic plates. Movement of these plates cause earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. Climate and Vegetation • Central America and the Caribbean islands are generally sunny and warm. • Inland mountain areas contain cool, humid climates, some are covered with cloud forests which are home to numerous plant and animal species. Climate and Vegetation (continued) • Temperatures do not change much throughout the year. • Seasons are marked by changes in rainfall: Winter is usually dry. Summer, rains almost daily. • Hurricane season is between June and November bringing heavy winds and flooding. Resources • The regions best resources are its land and climate. • Tourism is an important industry. Warm climate and rich soil make the region a good place to grow coffee, bananas, sugarcane, and cotton. • Central America and the Caribbean have few mineral and energy resources.