After Asia, Africa is the world's second largest continent. The continent lies between the Atlantic Ocean and the Indian Ocean. One of the best known environmental features of the continent is the Sahara desert, the largest in the world. This desert
lies in the northern part of the continent and continues through many African countries. Africa has no large chain of mountains that defines the continent. However, the Atlas, Drakensberg, and Ruwenzori are among a few more minor mountain systems.The Great Rift Valley stretches from the Dead Sea to Mozambique. One of the most interesting
natural aspects of the continent, the valley is a huge trough that shapes many other geographical features. Most of the climate is highly tropical. Some areas, such as the Sahara and Kalahari deserts, receive almost no water, while others such as the coast along the Gulf of Guinea receive as much as 80 inches annually. Africa's land is generally poor for growing crops because the soil tends to be infertile. The main exceptions are the river areas, such as the Nile delta, which
are more capable of supporting agriculture. Countless species of animals roam the continent. Because the area's climate has been relatively stable and some animal species have emigrated to Africa from other continents, the continent has obtained a highly diverse group of animals. Africa - Biodiversity Issues Africa - Economic Aspects Africa - Environmental Aspects Africa - Major Forest Problems Africa - Major Land Problems Africa - Major Water Problems Africa - Marine Environments Africa - National Projects Africa - Political Aspects Africa - Regional Projects Africa - Social Aspects |