Geography of the Earth

Geography is the science of the Earth's surface, its atmosphere and its features. It is the study of places and the
relationships between people and their environments.
GEOGRAPHY
• Greek word "Geographia"
• "geo" = earth + "graphein" = to write
• Means Description of the earth
Ptolemy placed the Earth at the centre of his geocentric model.
Copernicus developed his heliocentric model to explain that the earth revolves around the sun.
Eratosthenes - Father of Geography. He is the first one to use the word geography and he also had a small-
scale notion of the planet that helped him to determine the circumference of the earth. He invented a system of
longitude and latitude and made a map of the known world.
Geographic Grid System
Grid system is basically a set of imaginary horizontal and vertical lines drawn on a map. The grid system is
used to find the exact location of a place.
Geographic Grid System

 Parallel (Latitude Lines) - imaginary lines that divide the Earth. They run east to west, but measure
your distance north or south.
 Latitude the measurement of distance north or south of the Equator. It is measured with 180 imaginary
lines that form circles around Earth east-west, parallel to the Equator.
 Equator imaginary line around the middle of a planet or other celestial body. It is halfway between the
north pole and the south pole, at 0 degrees latitude. An equator divides the planet into a northern
hemisphere and a southern hemisphere.
 Meridian (Longitude Lines) - an imaginary line between the North Pole and the South Pole, drawn on
maps to help to show the position of a place.
 Longitude the measurement distance east or west of the prime meridian.
 Prime Meridian - the line of 0" longitude, the starting point for measuring distance both east and west
around Earth. There is an international agreement that the meridian that runs through Greenwich,
England, is considered the official prime meridian..
Climate Zone

 Climate is the long-term pattern of weather in a particular area.

 Weather refers to short-term changes, is the state of the atmosphere, including temperature,
atmospheric pressure, wind, humidity, precipitation, and cloud cover. It can change from hour-to-hour,
day-to-day, month-to-month or even year-to-year.
 Tropical - In this hot and humid zone, the average temperatures are greater than 64°F (18°C) year-
round and there is more than 59 inches of precipitation each year.
 Dry-These climate zones are so dry because moisture is rapidly evaporated from the air and there is
very little precipitation.
 Temperate - In this zone, there are typically warm and humid summers with thunderstorms and mild
winters.
 Continental - These regions have warm to cool summers and very cold winters. In the winter, this zone
can experience snowstorms, strong winds, and very cold temperatures-sometimes falling below -22°F (-
30°C)!
 Polar In the polar climate zones, it's extremely cold. Even in summer, the temperatures here never go
higher than 50°F (10°C)
Major Types of Vegetation In The World
Forest
  The plants of an area that grow in disturbed or undisturbed conditions in wooded plant communities in
any combination of trees, saplings, shrubs, vines, and herbaceous plants, including mature and
successional forests and cutover stands.
Temperate Forest

 Leaf fall is in the dry season. With seasonal leaf fall, reduced transpiration helps the trees conserve
water. The temperate forests are also called Deciduous Forests. Rainfall is about 50-200 cms and
annually happens seasonally. (Deciduous Forests)
Tropical Forest

 High rainfall throughout the year. Hence, the fall of leaves and regeneration of leaves can happen
throughout the year. (Evergreen Forests)
Equatorial Rainforest

 These cover permanently hot and humid equatorial regions. These are evergreen forests with the
greatest forest density with maximum biodiversity. These forests are called the ecological lifeline of the
earth (or) Lungs of the earth.
- Amazon: argest equatorial rainforest in the world with the greatest concentration of biodiversity and
greatest forest density. On these grounds, these are locally known as the Selvas.
Mediterranean Forests

 These are on the west coast of continents in Warm Temperate Regions. The summers are dry summer
and rainy winters are characterized by rainfall which is due to on-shore Westerlies.
Taiga Forests

 These cover the cool temperate continental climate of Eurasia & North America. These are also called
Coniferous Forests.
Taiga Forests

 Russia has the longest cover of Taiga Forest and also the largest forest cover in the world.
- Grassland: An area in which the vegetation is dominated by a nearly continuous cover of grasses.
Steppes

 An ecoregion characterized by grassland plains without trees except near rivers and lakes. Broad, flat
stretches of treeless grasslands cover large areas of Siberia, and the grass is green in the spring but
becomes brown under the scorching heat of summer.
 Steppe: have a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. Precipitation levels are
moderate, and steppes can be semi-arid.
Prairies

 The enormous stretches of flat grassland dominated by a variety of grass species, prairies may also have
wildflowers. Trees are generally absent or sparse, with the landscape featuring vast expanses of grasses.
Prairies are primarily found in North America, particularly in the central part of the continent, covering
parts of the United States and Canada.
 have a temperate climate with cold winters and warm summers
Savanna/Tropical Grasslands

 A transitional zone between the deciduous forests region and dry regions. The Tropical grasslands are
characterized by tall grasses and scattered trees.
 have a tropical or subtropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The dry season may lead to the
development of grasslands and scattered trees.
 largest grassland in the world. The largest savanna is located in Africa. Nearly half of the continent of
Africa is covered with savanna grasslands.
Desert
  Most desert plants are drought- or salt-tolerant. Some store water in their leaves, roots, and stems. Other
desert plants have long tap roots that penetrate the water table, anchor the soil, and control erosion.
Tropical Deserts

 These are hot & dry regions dominated by Xerophytes or tropical thorn vegetation like Cactus, Acacia
(Babul). The forest density & bio-diversity in tropical deserts are extremely low.
Sahara Desert : is the largest hot desert in the world and the third largest overall.
Antarctic Desert: is the largest dessert in the world, second from it is Arctic Desert.
Tundra

 Tree growth is hindered by frigid temperatures and short growing seasons. Tundra ecosystems are
treeless regions found in the Arctic and on the tops of mountains, where the climate is cold and windy,
and rainfall is scant.
 Tundra lands are covered with snow for much of the year, but summer brings bursts of wildflowers
Ice Sheets

 Ice sheet mass of glacial ice more than 50,000 square kilometers (19,000 square miles). Ice sheets
contain about 99% of the freshwater on Earth, and are sometimes called continental glaciers. As ice
sheets extend to the coast and over the ocean, they become ice shelves.
 A mass of glacial ice covering less area than an ice sheet is called an ice cap.
 A series of connected ice caps is called an ice field. Making up ice fields, ice caps, and eventually ice
sheets are individual glaciers.
 Today, there are only two ice sheets in the world: the Antarctic ice sheet and the Greenland ice sheet.
During the last glacial period, however, much of Earth was covered by ice sheets.
Land formations

 Mountain is a landform that rises prominently above its surroundings, generally exhibiting steep
slopes, a relatively confined summit area, and considerable local relief.
 Everest- highest mountain in the world
 Apo-highest mountain in the Philippines
 Kilimanjaro - highest mountain in Africa and the world's tallest freestanding peak..
 Mountain Range or hill range is a series of mountains or hills arranged in a line and connected by high
ground.
 Mid-ocean ridge - longest mountain range in the world
 Andes - longest mountain range on land
 Sierra Madre - longest mountain range in the Philippines
 Volcano is an opening in a planet or moon's crust through which molten rock, hot gases, and other
materials erupt. Volcanoes often form a hill or mountain as layers of rock and ash build up from
repeated eruptions.
 Mauna Loa - largest active volcano in the world
 Taal smallest active volcano in the world
 Mayon most perfect volcanic cone
 Pinatubo-known one the most powerful volcano after its June 15, 1991 eruption.
 Plateau is a flat, elevated landform that rises sharply above the surrounding area on at least one side.
Plateaus occur on every continent and take up a third of the Earth's land.
 Tibetan - highest and largest plateau in the world known as "the roof of the world". Also known as
Pamir
 Benham Rise 13 million hectare underwater plateau.
 Valley is a low area of land between hills or mountains, typically with a river or a stream flowing
through it.
 Rift - Largest valley in the world
 Cagayan - Largest valley in the Philippines
ISLAND
 - Island is a body of land surrounded by water. Continents are also surrounded by water, but because they
are so big, they are not considered islands.
 Greenland - Largest island in the world
 Luzon - Largest island in the Philippines
Desert
- is a large, dry area where there is very little rain and few plants.
 Antarctica - is the largest dessert in the world
 Sahara is the largest hot dessert in the world
 La Paz Sand Dunes is the only desert in the Philippines
Peninsula
- is a piece of land that is almost entirely surrounded by water but is connected to the mainland on one
side.
 Arabia Largest peninsula in the world
 Bicol Peninsula-largest peninsula in the Philippines
Archipelago
- is an area that contains a chain or group of islands scattered in lakes, rivers, or the ocean.
 Malay - Largest archipelago in the world
 Plain is a broad area of relatively flat land.
 West Siberian - world's largest continuous flatland.
 Central Luzon - Largest plain in the Philippines.
Bodies of water
- Ocean is a continuous body of salt water that is contained in an enormous basin on Earth's surface.
Five oceans in the world
1. Pacific
2. Atlantic
3. Indian
4. Southern
5. Artic
Seas- are smaller than oceans and are usually located where the land and ocean meet. Typically, seas are
partially enclosed by land. Seas are found on the margins of the ocean and are partially enclosed by land.
Five largest Sea in the world
1. Philippines Sea
2. Coral Sea
3. Arabian Sea
4. South China Sea
5. Caribbean Sea
River
- is a large, natural stream of flowing water. Rivers are found on every continent and on nearly every
kind of land.
 Nile- Longest river in the world
 Amazon- Widest river in the world
 Rio Grande de Cagayan- Longest river in the Philippines
Waterfall
- is a steep descent of the water of a river
  Angel Falls-Highest waterfalls in the world
 Victoria Falls Largest waterfall in the world
 Aliwagwag Falls - highest waterfall in the Philippines.
Lake
- is a body of water that is surrounded by land.
 Titicaca - Highest lake in the world (Largest in S America)
 Caspian Largest lake in the world
 Baikal-Deepest lake in the world
 Laguna de Bay - Largest lake in the Philippines
Gulf
- is a portion of the ocean that penetrates land.
 Gulf of Mexico - Largest gulf in the world
 Moro Gulf Largest gulf in the Philippines
Glacier
- is a persistent body of dense ice that is constantly moving under its own weight.
 Seller - largest glacier in the world. Antartica.
GEOGRAPHY II
Main Divisions of Land
 Panthalassa - universal sea or single ocean.
 Pangaea supercontinent
 Zealandia-lost continent
 Laurasia - North America, Europe and Asia.
 Gondwanaland - Africa, South America, Australia, Antarctica, and Indian subcontinent.
 Continental Drift-revolutionary theory explaining that continents shift position on Earth's
surface, proposed by geophysicist and meteorologist Alfred Wegener in 1912.
Continents - is a large continuous mass of land conventionally regarded as a collective region.
7 Continents of the World
1. Asia
2. Africa
3. North America
4. South America
5. Antarctica
6. Europe
7. Australia
ASIA
 Largest continent in the world, covering one-third of the Earth's surface and it has 49 countries.
 Timor-Leste is the youngest country in Asia, having gained independence in 2002.
 Russia and Turkey have both land in Europe and land in Asia.
 Russia is the largest country by size, followed by Canada, China, and the USA.
 Tokyo is the most populated city in the world. More than 38 million people live in the
metropolitan area of Japan's capital city.
 There are 12 landlocked countries in Asia: Armenia, Bhutan, Laos, Nepal, Mongolia,
Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan.
 Asia is the birthplace of all the world's major religions: Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism,
Islam, and Judaism
 Mt. Everest, the highest mountain in the world is part of the Himalaya mountain range. The
Himalayas are spread across five Asian countries; Bhutan, China, India, Nepal, and Pakistan.
 Tibetan Plateau in Central Asia is the world's highest and largest plateau and is called "the roof
of the world"
 Lake Baikal of Russia is the deepest lake on planet and it is located in Asia.
 Taal Volcano in the Philippines is the world's smallest volcano.
SOUTH AMERICA
 Indigenous tribes which have had little or no contact at all with modern civilization have been
 discovered in the past years, deep into the Amazon rainforest - the world's most biodiverse
place.
 The tiny country Qatar on the Arabian peninsula is one of the richest nations in the world due to
its income from oil exploration and the petroleum industry. Saudi-Arabia, the United Arab
Emirates and Bahrain are also among richest countries in the world due to their oil reserves.
 Singapore is the second wealthiest country in the world today.
 Taal Volcano in the Philippines is the world's smallest volcano.
AFRICA
 Africa is rich in natural resources ranging from arable land, water, oil, natural gas, minerals,
forests and wildlife.
 Africa is known for Mount Kilimanjaro, Victoria Falls, Nile river, and game reserves such as
the Maasal Mara and Serengeti. Africa is also famous for its diverse ethnic groups, Egyptian
Pyramids, the Sahara Desert, Mining, and for being the second driest, and the poorest continent
in the world.
 The continent with the most countries. There are 54 countries on the African continent.
 By the records of the fossil remains Africa seems to be the first continent where humans were
found. The fossil remains have suggested that humans had inhabited the African continent
around 7 million years ago. Therefore it is believed to be the birthplace of humanity.
 Africa is home to some 30 percent of the world's mineral reserves, eight per cent of the world's
natural Gas and 12 per cent of the world's oil reserves. The massive deposits of the
Witwatersrand mines in South Africa have produced more than 40 percent of the world's total
production of gold.
 An estimated 26% of the world's Christian population is living on the continent of Africa. That
makes Africa the most Christian continent on earth.
 Nile River, the longest river in the world is flowing northward through 11 countries of Africa:
Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kenya, Ethiopia,
Eritrea, South Sudan, Sudan and Egypt.
 Sahara, the world's largest hot desert and one of the harshest environments on the planet is in
Africa. Serengeti (Tanzania) hosts the world's largest wildlife migration on Earth.
NORTH AMERICA
 All major biomes can be found in North America: aquatic, grassland, forest, desert, and tundra
covering all of North America.
 North America is a leading producer of coal, used in energy production; bauxite, used to create
aluminum; iron and copper, both used in construction; and nickel, used to create steel, which
NorthAmerican companies export around the world.
 North America reigns supreme in com production.
 North America is home to the large Christian population. Almost 80% of the people in Canada,
the USA and Mexico consider themselves as Christians,
 The Maya civilisation of Central America and Mexico is considered one of the oldest
civilisations of this planet.
 Greenland, the largest island in the world.
 About 22% of the continent is covered by forests, and it is estimated that 20% of all the planet's
oxygen is created in these forests. More than 40% of the world's plants and animal species can
be found here.
 La Paz, the Bolivian capital, is the highest capital in the world.
 Atamaca Desert is the driest place on Earth.
 Angel falls in Venezuela is the tallest waterfall in the world.
 Mauna Loa in Hawaii is the largest ACTIVE volcano on Earth
 Lake Titicaca is is the largest freshwater lake in South America and the highest of the world's
large lakes..
 The Andes are the world's longest continental mountain range in the surface of the earth, about
9,000 km in all. They lie as a continuous chain of highland along the western coast of South
America, along that route, they cross through Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia.
ANTARCTICA
 The largest dessert on Earth.
 The smallest continent by population numbers.
 The highest, driest, coldest and windiest continent on Earth.
 The Antarctic ice sheet is the largest ice store on earth. An incredible 60-90% of the world's
fresh water is locked in Antarctica's vast ice sheet.
 Most of Antarctica experiences 6 months of constant daylight in summer and 6 months of
darkness in winter.
 There are no trees or shrubs in Antarctica, and there are only two flowering plants: Antarctic
hair grass (Deschampsia antarctica) and Antarctic pearlwort (Colobanthus quitensis).

EUROPE
 It is centrally located between the two other "Old World" continents, Africa and Asia.
 Europa was a princess in Greek Mythology. Homer also wrote of a Queen named Europe.
Later, in 6 BC, Greek geographers used Europe as a geographic name.
 Europe is home to the world's largest Church, St. Peter's Basilica.
 It has the world's smallest country, the Vatican City. The Vatican City is in Italy surrounded by
the city of Rome. It is where the headquarters of the Roman Catholic Church is and is where
the Pope lives.
 Three Quarters of world's potatoes comes from Europe.
 Luxembourg-one of the most smallest country, and it is located in Europe. Owes its wealth to
the discovery of iron ore in the southern area of the country called the Minett.

AUSTRALIA
 The smallest continent of the planet. Oceania is a geographic region that includes Australasia,
Polynesia,
 Micronesia and Melanesia.
 Australia is the largest landmass on the continent of Australia.
 Oceania is a region made up of thousands of islands throughout the Central and South Pacific
Ocean.
 Although cities like Sydney and Melbourne may be better known, the capital of Australia is
Canberra.
 Australia is the only place in the world where Kangaroos exist in the wild.
 The Great Barrier Reef in Australia is the biggest coral reef system in the world.
Names of Countries

Afghanistan
 Nickname: Graveyard of Empires
 Previous name: Aryana
China
 Nickname: The Red Dragon
 Previous name: Cathay / Mangi
India
 Nickname: Emerald of the Equator
 Previous name: Dutch East Indies.
Iran
 Nickname: Land of the Aryans
 Previous name: Persia
Iraq
 Nickname: Cradle of Ancient Civilization
 Previous name: Mesopotamia
Japan
 Nickname: Land of the Rising Sun
 Previous name: Nippon / Edo
Philippines
  Nickname: The Pearl of the Orient Seas | The Rising Tiger Previous name: Archepelago de San
Lazarus | Las Felipinas
Singapore
 Nickname: The Lion City | Asian Tiger
 Previous name: Temasek
South Korea
 Nickname: Land of the Morning Calm
 Previous name: Goryeo | Joseon / Cho son
Sri Lanka
 Nickname: India's Teardrop
 Previous name: Ceylon

Thailand
 Nickname: Land of Smiles.
 Previous name: Siam
Egypt
 Nickname: The Gift of the Nile
 Previous name: Kemet
South Africa
 Nickname: Rainbow Nation
 Previous name: Unie van Zuid-Afrika
Perú
 Nickname: Land of the Incas
 Previous name: Birú
USA
 Nickname: The Land of the Free
 Previous name: United Colonies
Finland
 Nickname: Land of Thousand Lakes
 Previous name: Suomi
France
 Nickname: L'hexagone
 Previous name: Gaul
Iceland
 Nickname: Land of Fire and Ice
 Previous name: Snowland Snealand
Ireland
 Nickname: The Emerald Isle
 Previous name: Hibernia
Switzerland
 Previous name: Helvetia
 Nickname: Land of Milk and Hone | Playground of Europe | Land of the rolling hills

GEOGRAPHY Part III

WONDERS of the WORLD
Seven Wonders of the Ancient World
1. The Great Pyramid of Giza is the largest Egyptian pyramid and the tomb of Fourth Dynasty pharaoh
Khufu.
2. The Hanging Gardens of Babylon were described as a remarkable feat of engineering with an
ascending series of tiered gardens containing a wide variety of trees, shrubs, and vines, resembling a
large green mountain constructed of mud bricks.
3. The Colossus of Rhodes was a gigantic 33-metre-high bronze statue of the sun god Helios which
stood by the harbour of that city from c. 280 BCE. Rhodes was then one of the most important trading
ports in the ancient Mediterranean
4. Temple of Artemis (Artemisium) at Ephesus was the first to be entirely of marble and one of the
largest Greek temples ever built.
5. The Lighthouse of Alexandria, sometimes called the Pharos of Alexandria, was a lighthouse built by
the Ptolemaic Kingdom of Ancient Egypt, during the reign of Ptolemy II Philadelphus.
6. The Statue of Zeus at Olympia was a giant seated figure, about 12.4 m tall, made by the Greek
sculptor Phidias around 435 BC at the sanctuary of Olympia, Greece, and erected in the Temple of
Zeus.
7. The Mausoleum at Halicarnassus or Tomb of Mausolus was a tomb built between 353 and 350 BC in
Halicarnassus for Mausolus, an Anatolian from Caria and a satrap in the Achaemenid Empire, and his
sister-wife Artemisia II of Caria.
New Seven Wonders of the World

1. Petra, Jordan
 Petra is half-built, half-carved into the rock, and is surrounded by mountains riddled with
passages and gorges. It is one of the world's most famous archaeological sites, where ancient
Eastern traditions blend with Hellenistic architecture.
2. Great Wall of China
 The Great Wall of China was built over centuries by China's emperors to protect their territory.
The wall is the longest man made structure in the world, with a total length of about 13170.7 mi
or 21196.18 km. Made over the course of hundreds of years, the wall was built by over 6
different Chinese dynasties, and is over 2,300 years old.
3. Christ the Redeemer, Brazil
 The statue of Christ the Redeemer or Cristo Redentor in its native Portuguese, the most
prominent symbol of faith in Jesus ever built in the world. It took nine years to build on top of
Mount Corovado in
4. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
 Colosseum, Italy The Colosseum is the biggest amphitheater in the world. Beside gladiator
contest, the Colosseum was often a place of open execution performed in a way inspired by the
mythology.
5. Machu Pichu, Peru
 Machu Picchu is a 15th-century Inca citadel located in the Eastern Cordillera of southern Peru.
Often referred to as the "Lost City of the Incas", it is the most familiar icon of the Inca Empire.
A symbol of the Incan Empire and built around 1450AD, Machu Picchu was designated a
UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983
6. Chichen Itza, Mexico
 Chichén Itzá, ruined ancient Maya city occupying an area of 4 square miles (10 square km) in
south- central Yucatán state, Mexico. It is thought to have been a religious, military, political,
and commercial centre that at its peak would have been home to 35,000 people.
7. Taj Mahal, India
 The Taj Mahal was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983 for being "the jewel
of Muslim art in India and one of the universally admired masterpieces of the world's heritage".
The Taj Mahal is an ivory-white marble mausoleum on the south bank of the Yamuna river in
the Indian city of Agra.

Seven Natural Wonders of the World

1. Mount Everest is known as the tallest peak on Earth, located along China (Tibetan)-Nepal border.
The English name, Everest, is named after George Everest, who was a surveyor of India.
2. Paricutin Volcano Paricutin is a cinder cone volcano that can be found in Michoacán, Mexico. The
cone has only really existed as it is since 1943, when it surged up out of the ground in a relatively
flat cornfield, making it the youngest volcano in the Northern Hemisphere. Now, the volcano is
considered to be dormant and is popular as a tourist attraction.
3. The Grand Canyon: The Grand Canyon is a striking canyon located in Arizona, United States.
The canyon was formed by the natural erosion of rock and soil by the Colorado River, over a period
of billions of years. The canyon is stunning not only for its deep rust-red colors, and the visible
layers of rock and sediment that can be seen throughout its cliff walls but mainly it is impressive for
its size and depth.
 4. Victoria Falls: Victoria Falls is one of the seven natural wonders of the world because it is
considered the largest waterfall in the world. The falls are located along the border between Zambia
and Zimbabwe, in southern Africa, and are formed by the Zambezi River.
5. The Harbor Of Rio De Janeiro: The Harbor of Rio de Janeiro can be found in the southeast of
Brazil. Also known as Guanabara Bay, it is the world's largest natural bay, based on volume, and
that is why it is classified as one of the seven Natural Wonders of the world. The bay is a huge
expanse of water, which is surrounded by granite rock. formations and monoliths which add to the
striking visual appeal of the area.
6. Great Barrier Reef: The Great Barrier Reef is the largest coral reef system in the world. It is made
up of 2,900 smaller reef sections and 900 islands which together make up some 2,300 kilometers of
reef across 344,400 square kilometers of ocean. These reefs, or reef system, is located in the
fittingly named Coral Sea, which is off the coast of Queensland, Australia.
7. Northern Lights: The Northern lights, more scientifically called the Aurora Borealis, is a natural
phenomenon that marks the seventh natural wonder of the world. The Aurora appears as a light
show of beautiful dancing colors usually greens blue and purples - when electrically charged
particles caused by sun flares or extreme sun activity reach the gaseous particles found in the
Earth's atmosphere.
Natural Phenomena
- A natural phenomenon is an observable event which is not man-made.
- Those that occur or manifest without human input. Examples of natural phenomena include gravity,
tides, moons, planets, volcanic lightning, starling swarms, ant armies, sandstorms, biological processes
and oscillation, and countless other events.

 Solstice: the Sun appeared to stop still since it was during this time of year that the Sun seems
to be at either its highest or lowest position in the sky for the year.
 Midnight sun: a seasonal occurrence in which the Sun is still visible at local midnight in
regions north of the Arctic Circle or south of the Antarctic Circle.
 Green Flash: Green Flash and green ray are meteorological optical phenomena that sometimes
occur transiently around the moment of sunset or sunrise. When the conditions are right, a
distinct green spot is briefly visible above the Sun's upper limb; the green appearance usually
lasts for no more than two seconds.
 Aurora: A natural light show in the Earth's sky called an aurora, sometimes known as the polar
lights, northern lights, or southern lights, is most frequently observed in high-latitude areas. The
sky is covered in dynamic patterns of spectacular lights known as auroras.
 Halo: an optical phenomenon produced by light interacting with ice crystals suspended in the
atmosphere. Many of these appear near the Sun or Moon, but others occur elsewhere or even in
the opposite part of the sky.

 Moonbows: colorful nocturnal arches occur when light (from the moon, in this case) reflects
and refracts off water droplets in the sky. But moonbows are much more rare than rainbows-the
natural phenomenon happens only when the moon is very low, the sky is dark, and rain is
falling opposite the moon.
 Cloud iridescence: A vivid visual phenomena known as cloud iridescence or irisation happens
in clouds and manifests itself when the Sun or Moon is nearby. The hues mimic those of soap
bubbles and oil slicks on water.
 Nacreous clouds: Sometimes called mother-of-pearl clouds. They are mostly visible within
two hours after sunset or before dawn when they blaze unbelievably bright with vivid and
slowly shifting iridescent colours.
 Mammatus cloud: unusual and distinctive clouds formations with a series of bulges or
pouches emerging from the base of a cloud. a rare example of clouds in sinking air (most
clouds form in rising air). For mammatus to form, the sinking air must be cooler than the air
around it and have high liquid water or ice content.
 Waterspout: an intense columnar vortex that occurs over a body of water. Some are connected
to a cumulus congestus cloud, some to a cumuliform cloud and some to a cumulonimbus cloud.
 Whirlpools: Whirlpools form when two opposing currents meet, causing water to rotate (like
stirring liquid in a glass). This can happen when heavy winds cause water to travel in different
directions. As the water circles, it gets funneled into a small cavity in the center, creating a
vortex.
 Penitentes: High-altitude snow formations can be found. They appear as thin, elongated,
closely spaced blades of hardened snow or ice that are facing in the general direction of the sun.
 Glowing beaches: This natural phenomenon is caused by phytoplankton in the water that gives
off light when agitated by the movement of waves and currents.
 Solar Flare: a powerful radiation flash caused by the release of magnetic energy from a
sunspot. The greatest explosive occurrences in our solar system are flares. They can persist for
a few minutes to several hours and are seen as bright spots on the sun.
 Heat wave: Heat wave, or extreme heat, is a period of abnormally hot weather often
accompanied by high humidity, especially in oceanic climate countries. A heat wave is usually
measured relative to the usual climate in the area and relative to normal temperatures for the
season
 Sand Storm: A strong wind that carries clouds of sand and dust through the air. Sand and dust
storms usually occur when strong winds lift large amounts of sand and dust from bare, dry soils
into the atmosphere.
 Volcanic lightning: a lightning strike brought on by a volcanic eruption as opposed to a typical
thunderstorm. The term "dirty thunderstorm" refers to volcanic lightning, which is caused by
colliding and fragmenting volcanic ash particles that produce static electricity inside the
volcanic plume.
 Blood Falls: Blood Falls is an outflow of an iron oxide-tainted plume of saltwater, flowing
from the tongue of Taylor Glacier onto the ice-covered surface of West Lake Bonney in the
Taylor Valley of the McMurdo Dry Valleys in Victoria Land, East Antarctica.
 Sinkhole: a depression or hole in the ground caused by some form of collapse of the surface
layer.
 Natural Disasters: A natural disaster is a disaster with links to natural hazards. A natural
disaster can cause loss of life or damage property, and typically leaves economic damage in its
wake. The severity of the damage depends on the affected population's resilience and on the
infrastructure available.
 Volcanic Eruption: A volcanic eruption occurs when a volcano releases gas and/or lava,
occasionally violently. Below the Earth, some rocks slowly melt and turn into lava Since
magma is lighter than the surrounding solid rock, it rises and gathers in magma chambers. A
portion of the lava eventually rises to the Earth's surface through vents and fissures.
 Earthquake: The trembling of the Earth's surface brought on by a rapid release of energy in
the lithosphere of the planet.
 Landslide: A variety of ground movements, such as rockfalls, superficial or deep-seated slope
failures, mudflows, and debris flows, can occur during landslides, also known as landslips.
 Avalanche: A common type of danger known as a snow avalanche is the abrupt release of
snow masses and ice on slopes, occasionally accompanied by fragments of rock, soil, and
plants.
 Blizzard: A storm with large amounts of snow or blowing snow, winds greater than 35 mph (56
kph), and visibility of less than % mile (0.4 km) for at least three hours.
 Hailstorm: When raindrops are transported aloft by thunderstorm updrafts into extremely cold
regions of the sky and freeze, hailstones are created. When liquid water drops strike a
hailstone's surface and freeze, the hailstone grows.
 Thunderstorms: Ferocious, brief meteorological disturbances that are nearly always
accompanied by lightning, thunder, thick clouds, significant amounts of rain or hail, and strong
gusts of wind. Layers of warm, moist air rise in a strong updraft to cooler parts of the
atmosphere, whereupon thunderstorms form.
 Tornado: A tornado is an incredibly fast-rotating column of air that makes contact with the
Earth's surface, a cumulonimbus cloud, or, very rarely, the base of a cumulus cloud.
 Wildfire: A wildfire, forest fire, bushfire, wildland fire or rural fire is an unplanned,
uncontrolled and unpredictable. fire in an area of combustible vegetation.
  Drought: A drought is a time when the weather is drier than usual. Days, months, or even years
may pass between. droughts. In addition to harming the local economy, drought frequently has
significant negative effects on the ecosystems and agriculture of afflicted areas.
 El Niño
- El Niño (Spanish for 'Little Boy') refers to a warming of the ocean surface, or above-average
sea surface temperatures, in the central and eastern tropical Pacific Ocean.
- El Niño is considered as Christ's child on the Peruvian coast because it arrives after
Christmas.
- El Nino is a warm water ocean current which creates tropical type of ocean climate along the
Peruvian coast which gives good rainfall to the desert area.
 La Niña: La Niña is also sometimes called El Viejo, anti-El Niño, or simply "a cold event." La
Niña has the opposite effect of El Niño. During La Niña events, trade winds are even stronger
than usual, pushing more warm water toward Asia. Off the west coast of the Americas,
upwelling increases, bringing cold, nutrient-rich water to the surface.(Spanish for 'Little Girl')
the periodic cooling of sea-surface temperatures across the east-central equatorial Pacific.
 Flood: An excess of water that floods normally dry area. The expression "flowing water" can
also be used to describe the tide's influx, Floods are a topic of research in the hydrology field
and are very important to the fields of agriculture, civil engineering, and public health.
 Tsunami: A tsunami is a succession of waves in a body of water brought on by the shifting of a
significant amount of water, typically in an ocean or a sizable lake.
 Storm Surge: An anomalous increase in water caused by a storm that is higher than the
expected astronomical tides is known as a storm surge. Storm tide, which is referred to as the
increase in water level brought on by a storm surge and an astronomical tide, should not be
confused with storm surge.
 Storms: violent atmospheric disturbance, characterized by low barometric pressure, cloud
cover, precipitation, strong winds, and possibly lightning and thunder.
 Hurricanes: when they develop over the North Atlantic, central North Pacific, and eastern
North Pacific.
 Cyclones when they form over the South Pacific and Indian Ocean.
 Typhoons when they develop in the Northwest Pacific.
Location and Map: Location is a position of an object that could be put on a map.

 Nominal locations are the names of a place. Ex: Paris | Philippines | Manila
 Relative location is based on the location of another place. Ex: Philippines is in Southeast Asia,
on the eastern rim of the Asiatic Mediterranean.
 Absolute location provides either the coordinates or the address. Ex: Philippines is in It is
located between 116° 40', and 126° 34' E longitude and 4° 40' and 21° 10' N latitude
 Map is a two-dimensional representation of the earth.
 Globe is a three-dimensional representation of the earth.

A collection of maps bound together in a book is called an atlas.

 Political Maps - does not show physical features. Instead, they show state and national
boundaries and capital and major cities.
 Road map - road map, route map, or street map is a map that primarily displays roads and
transport links rather than natural geographical information. It is a type of navigational map
that commonly includes political boundaries and labels, making it also a type of political map.
 Climate maps are maps that depict the different climates on the Earth and the prevailing
weather patterns in specific areas. Climate maps will often be a regular map showing the
different areas with varying colors representing different climate zones.
 Physical Maps - illustrate the physical features of an area, such as the mountains, rivers and
lakes.
 Topographic Maps - include contour lines to show the shape and elevation of an area,
 An excess of water that floods normally dry area. The expression "flowing water" can also be
used to describe the tide's influx, Floods are a topic of research in the hydrology field and are
very important to the fields of agriculture, civil engineering, and public health.
GEOGRAPHY PART IV

PHILIPPINE GEOGRAPHY

 7, 107 islands (before)

 7, 641 islands (now)
 17 Regions
 81 Provinces
 148 cities
 1, 486 Municipalities
 42, 027 Barangays

 Mavulis Island with the native name Y'Ami Amianan is the northernmost of the Batanes
Islands and the northernmost island in the Philippines.
 Saluag Island, located in the Province of Tawi-Tawi, Its length is 1.6 kilometres. The island
belongs administratively to the municipality of Sibutu and is the southernmost island of the
Philippines.
 The easternmost point in Philippines is found within the municipality of Caraga in Davao
Oriental Province. It is known as Pusan Point and is located within Barangay Santiago.
 The 1,150,800 hectares of the biosphere reserve include the entire Province of Palawan Island,
is the westernmost province of the Philippines
 Previous names of the Philippines: Ma-yi o Land of Gold (Mindoro) - Chinese Traders
Maniolas - Ptolemy's ancient map Archipelago of St. Lazarus - Ferdinand Magellan
 Las Islas Felipinas - Ruy Lopez Villalobos
 Maharlika - Proposed name during Marcos Administration
 NICKNAME: Pearl of the Orient Seas - Fr. Juan J. Delgado and Dr. Jose Rizal.
5 largest Islands of the Philippines
1. Luzon
2. Mindanao
3. Samar
4. Negros
5. Palawan
PHILIPPINE REGIONS
Top 5 Largest Provinces
1. Palawan
2. Isabela
3. Bukidnon
4. Agusan del Sur
5. Cagayan
NCR REGION
 REGION VII: CENTRAL VISAYAS
 CAR-CORDILLERA ADMINISTRATIVE REGION
 REGION VIII: EASTERN VISAYAS
 REGION IX: WESTERN MINDANAO | ZAMBOANGA PENIN
 REGION I: ILOCOS REGION
 REGION II: CAGAYAN VALLEY
 REGION X: NORTHERN MINDANAO
 REGION III CENTRAL LUZON
 REGION XI: DAVAO REGION
 REGION IV A: CALABARZON
 REGION IV B: MIMAROPA
 REGION V: BICOL REGION
 REGION VI: WESTERN VISAYAS
 REGION XII: SOCCSARGEN
 REGION XIII: CARAGA
  BARMM-BANGSAMORO
 AUTONOMOUS REGION IN MUSLIM MINDANAO
 CAR-CORDILLERA ADMINISTRATIVE REGION
The Cordillera Region is known for its rich mineral deposits, such as gold and copper found in the mineral belt
traversing the entire mountain region.

 Baguio City is the coldest area in the country.

 ABRA - Natural Dye Capital of the Philippines
 APAYAO-Cordilleras' last forest frontier
 BENGUET- Salad Bowl of the Philippines
 IFUGAO-Land of Beautiful Rice Terraces
 KALINGA-Prince of the Highlands
 MOUNTAIN PROVINCE-Land of the Mountaineers
 *Baguio - Summer Capital | Little America | City of Pines Artists Heaven | Convention City

REGION I: ILOCOS REGION

The term Ilocos is said to have been derived from the word "Ylocos" which means "from the lowlands"
opposite to "Igorot" which meant "from the highlands".
It is known for its old towns, historical sites, beaches, and nature attractions.
Among all the Philippine presidents, six are of llocano descent.
1. Elpidio Quirino
2. Ramon Magsaysay
3. Carlos P. Garcia of Bohol
4. Ferdinand Marcos
5. Fidel V. Ramos
6. Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos Jr.
ILOCUS NORTE - Northern Tourist Destination
ILOCUS SUR-Northern Getaway; Heritage Village
 PANGASINAN -Salt Capital; Pangasinan or panag asinan means "where salt is made"
 LA UNION-Surfing Capital in the North
 Dagupan City - Bangus Capital
REGION II: CAGAYAN VALLEY
 Cagayan area is renowned for its magnificent mountains, beaches, caverns, and rolling hills. On
mainland Luzon's northeastern coast, it is well situated. Three mountain ranges around it: the
Caraballo Mountains to the south, the Cordillera Mountains to the west, and the Sierra Madre
Mountains to the east. The Cagayan River, also known as the Rio Grande de Cagayan, is the
longest and 2nd largest river in the Philippine Archipelago. BATANES - The Home of the
Winds; considered as the smallest province in the Philippines
 CAGAYAN - Land of Smiling Beauty
 ISABELA - The Queen Province of the North', 'Top Corn Producer of the Philippines' and 'Rice
Bowl of the North'.
 NUEVA VIZCAYA - Citrus Capital; referred to as lowland Baguio because of its pleasant
climate. QUIRINO-Forest Heartland of Cagayan Valley Tuguegarao "Gateway to the Ilocandia
and the Cordilleras" hottest place in the Philippines
REGION III: CENTRAL LUZON
 Towering mountains, active and dormant volcanoes, lush, green farmlands, and natural marine
harbors make up Central Luzon. Central Luzon is also famous for its food, and being the
country's largest rice producer.
 The world's largest volcanic eruption to happen in the past 100 years was the June 15, 1991,
eruption of Mount Pinatubo in the Philippines.
 AURORA-Gateway to Pacific
 BATAAN - History hub of Central Luzon BULACAN-Land of the Heroes
 NUEVA ECIJA - Rice Granary of the Philippines PAMPANGA - Culinary Capital of the
Philippines
 TARLAC-Melting Pot of Central Luzon
 ZAMBALES-Chromite Capital; Mt. Pinatubo
REGION IVA: CALABARZON
 Formally called the Southern Tagalog Mainland. It is the country's second-most populous area
and the birthplace of national heroes including:
 Jose Rizal - Calamba, Laguna
 Apolinario Mabini - Tanauan, Batangas
 Emilio Aguinaldo - Kawit, Cavite
 Miguel Malvar - Sto. Tomas, Batangas.
 Laguna de Bay is the country's largest inland body of water, and Southeast Asia's third largest
freshwater lake.
 Taal-the smallest active volcano is in the province of Batangas.
 The Sierra Madre is the longest mountain range in the country, it runs from the province of
Cagayan down to the province of Quezon.
 CAVITE Land of the Brave
 LAGUNA-The Philippines' Silicon Valley; Resort Capital
 BATANGAS - Land of Rolling Hills and Wide Shore Lands.
 RIZAL-The Cradle of Philippine Art
 QUEZON-Coconut capital of Luzon
REGION IV B: MIMAROPA
The collection of green islands and islets south of southern Luzon, historically known as the
Southwestern Tagalog Region, is best recognized for its natural beauties, exceptional marine
biodiversity, and distinctive flora and fauna.
 MINDORO - Ma-yi "Land of Gold"; Rice Granary and Fruit Basket of Southern Tagalog
MARINDUQUE - The Heart of the Philippines
 ROMBLON- Marble Capital of the Philippines
 PALAWAN - Last ecological frontier; The Land of Promise
REGION V: BICOL REGION
A haven for those who enjoy being outside, with active volcanoes, mountains, cliffs, white-sand
beaches, and coral reefs. furthermore renowned for the Mount Mayon Volcano's expansive vistas and
nearly flawless conical shape' Mayon Volcano, called the world's most perfect volcanic cone because of
the symmetry of its shape is situated in Albay.
 ALBAY-Alluring Capital
 CAMARINES NORTE-Gateway to Bicolandia CAMARINES SUR-The Last Frontiers in the
Luzon Peninsula
 CATANDUANES-Land of the Howling Winds
 MASBATE - Rodeo Capital of the Philippines
 SORSOGON- Gateway to Southern Philippines; 'Land of Kasanggayahan' or 'A Life of
Prosperity'.
REGION VI: WESTERN VISAYAS
For many, the Western Visayas of the Philippines are known for the pristine beaches of Boracay Island,
the well-preserved heritage houses and churches of Iloilo, the patadyong textiles of Antique and the
sweet mangoes of Guimaras.
 AKLAN Boracay; oldest province in the country
 ANTIQUE-Where mountain meets the sea CAPIZ - "Seafood Capital of the Philippines"
 GUIMARAS-"Mango Capital of the Philippines"
 ILO-ILO-City of Love
 NEGROS OCCIDENTAL-Sugar Bowl of the Philippines
REGION VII: CENTRAL VISAYAS
This region has some magnificent beaches, many dive spots and, in Cebu City, historic landmarks
which date back to 1521. The island of Bohol has the charming Chocolate Hills and diminutive tarsiers.
Mt. Kanlaon bisects the Negros Island, and it is also the highest peak in Central Visayas.
Calbiga Cave or Langun-Gobingob Caves located in Eastern Samar is the biggest in the Philippines, the
second largest in Asia, and the third largest karst formation in the world, is renowned for its
speleothems and the diversity of its cave life.
The region's most famous landmark is the San Juanico Bridge, dubbed as the "Most Beautifully
Designed and Longest Bridge in the Philippines".
 BOHOL-Jewel of the Philippines
  CEBU Queen City of the South; oldest city
 NEGROS ORIENTAL-Sunrise Province
 SIQUIJOR-Island of Fire; Mystic Island of Central Visayas
REGION VIII: EASTERN VISAYAS
Positioned towards the Pacific Ocean on the easternmost tip of the Visayas island group. It contains
stunning caverns, islands, waterfalls, and rock formations. It is a location for ocean activities including
surfing, snorkeling, and scuba diving.
 BILIRAN-Undiscovered paradise
 LEYTE-the site of the largest naval battle in modern history
 SAMAR-Caving Capital of the Philippine; home to Asia's 2nd largest cave system
REGION IX: WESTERN MINDANAO-ZAMBOANGA PENINSULA
 Zamboanga City is in the Mindanao region of the Philippines. Known as the "City of Flowers"
(the etymology of Zamboanga comes from the Malay word jambangan means garden of
flowers), it is now one of the most important and busiest port cities in the Philippines.
 ZAMBOANGA DEL NORTE - God's Given Land; Twin-City Province, Zamboanga del Norte
has been made famous by the beauty and charm of the Orchid City of Dipolog and the
historical, rustic quaintness of the Shrine City of Dapitan.
 ZAMBOANGA SIBUGAY-Little Disneyland
 ZAMBOANGA DEL SUR - Little Hong Kong of the South
REGION X: NORTHERN MINDANAO
Northern Mindanao is the peaceful, politically stable northern region of the Philippines' most exotic and
resource rich island of Mindanao.

 BUKIDNON-Food Basket of Northern Mindanao

 CAMIGUIN Island Born of Fire; home to seven volcanoes
 LANAO DEL NORTE-Land of Beauty and Bounty
 MISAMIS OCCIDENTAL - Christmas Capital of Mindanao
 MISAMIS ORIENTAL - Mindanao's Nature Front
REGION XI: DAVAO REGION
Previously known as Southern Mindanao, it is situated in the southeast of the island of Mindanao, close
to the Davao Gulf. It has an abundance of natural resources and biodiversity, good soil, and hardly ever
encounters typhoons.
Mt. Apo National Park, Mindanao - the highest peak in the Philippines is a dormant volcano spanning
the provinces of North Cotabato in Region 12, and Davao Sur and Davao City in Region 11.
Aliwagwag Falls is the highest waterfall in the Philippines. This series of over a hundred falls totals a
height of 340 metres (1120 feet). The city is also nicknamed the "Durian Capital of the Philippines".
 DAVAO DEL SUR - Land of Eagles (possibly covering the whole Davao region)
 DAVAO DEL NORTE - The Banana Capital of the Philippines DAVAO ORIENTAL - Coconut
Capital of the Philippines
 DAVAO OCCIDENTAL Lupain ng Antigong Mamamayan
 COMPOSTELA VALLEY - Mindanao's Golden Valley
REGION XII: SOCSARGEN
Known for its river system, the region is the drainage basin of Mindanao, particularly at the Cotabato
Basin, a large depression surrounded by mountain ranges on three sides. Within the basin runs the Rio
Grande de Mindanao, the longest river in Mindanao and the second longest in the Philippines.
COTABATO Stone Fortress of Mindanao
 SARANGANI Boracay of the South; Southern Philippines' front door
 SOUTH COTABATO - Land of the Dreamweavers
 SULTAN KUDARAT - Robusta Capital of the Philippines

REGION XIII: CARAGA

Numerous beaches, an abundance of seafood, hot and cold springs, evergreen woods, and pleasant
weather can be found in the area. The Visayan term "Kalagan," which combines the words "Kalag" and
"An" to denote land, is where the name "Caraga" first appeared.
Siargao - "Surfing Capital of the Philippines" is mainly responsible for introducing surfing to the
country. Surigao City is popularly known as the City of Island Adventures and is considered a haven of
leisure and adventure because it has 17 panoramic islands with long stretches of pristine white sand
 beaches, mystical caves, vast mangrove forest and under water sceneries. Lake Sebu is one of the
Philippines' most important watersheds and a major provider of irrigation to the provinces of Sultan
Kudarat and South Cotabato.
 AGUSAN DEL NORTE - A Haven of Antiquated Finds
 AGUSAN DEL SUR - Timberland of the Philippines.
 DINAGAT ISLANDS - The Mystical Islands Province of Love
 SURIGAO DEL NORTE Surfing Capital of the Philippines
 SURIGAO DEL SUR - Little Boracay of CARAGA
BARMM-BANGSAMORO AUTONOMOUS REGION IN MUSLIM MINDANAO
Fisheries is the most important industry in the Province; products include marine creatures, pearls,
boats, and handicrafts. The Province is also renowned for the rich aroma of its Sulu coffee. The
southernmost point in the Philippines is the Frances Reef in the Sitangkai municipality located within
the province of Tawi Tawi.
 BASILAN-Treasure Islands of the Southern Seas
 LANAO DEL SUR Land of the "Maranaos"
 MAGUINDANAO - People of the flood plain
 SULU - Dubai of the Philippines
 TAWI-TAWI - The Venice of the South
NCR REGION
It is considered to be the political, economic and social center of the Philippines. NCR is the smallest
and most densely populated region in the country.
 CALOOCAN CITY - Makasaysayang Lungsod City of Heroes Cradle of Katipunan
 LAS PIÑAS CITY - City of Love and Progress; Salt Center of Metro Manila; Lantern Capital
of Metro Manila; Home of the Bamboo Organ
 MAKATI CITY-Business Capital of the Philippines; Financial Capital of the Philippines; Wall
Street of the Philippines
 MALABON CITY - Heritage city of Metro Manila
 MANDALUYONG CITY - Tiger City of the Philippines Shopping Capital of the Philippines
 MANILA CITY - Pearl of the Orient; Queen City of the Pacific; Distinguished and Ever Loyal
City
 MARIKINA CITY - Shoe Capital of the Philippines; Home of the World's Largest Shoes
MUNTINLUPA CITY - Emerald City of the Philippines; Gateway to Calabarzon
 NAVOTAS CITY - Fishing Capital of the Philippines
 PARAÑAQUE CITY - Fashion Capital of the Philippines; City of Lights
 PASAY CITY - The Gateway to the Philippine Islands: The Travel Capital of the Philippines;
Trading Wall of the Philippines; Festival Capital of Metro Manila; Japanese City of the
Philippines
 PASIG CITY- Green City
 PATEROS- Balut Capital of the Philippines; Small Town with a Big Heart
 QUEZON CITY-City of Stars; Dragon City of the Philippines; Largest City of the Philippines;
Home of the Philippine Congress
 SAN JUAN CITY - Smallest City; Heart of Metro Manila; Home of Philippine Presidents;
Tiangge Capital of the Philippines
 TAGUIG CITY - Metro Manila's ProbinSyudad
 VALENZUELA CITY-City of Discipline; Vibrant City
Luneta Park Manila: The Kilometer zero or KM O can be found in Luneta Park Manila across the Rizal
monument stands as a marker for distance reference. This marker serves as the nation's starting point when
measuring the distance going to the different provinces and cities in Luzon Island and the rest of the
Philippines.
First monument of Rizal: The first-ever Jose Rizal monument erected in Daet, CamNorte This was built in
1898 across the Old Daet Municipal Hall. Daet is the capital of the province of Camarines Norte in the Bicol
region.
World Heritage Sites in the Philippines
1. Baroque Churches of the Philippines
2. Historic City of Vigan
 3. Rice Terraces of the Philippine Cordilleras.
4. Mount Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary
5. Puerto-Princesa Subterranean River National Park
6. Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park
Historic Vigan
Vigan, which was founded in the sixteenth century, is Asia's best-preserved example of a planned
Spanish colonial town. Its architecture displays the blending of cultural aspects from other parts of the
Philippines, China, and Europe, creating a culture and townscape that are unique to East and South-East
Asia.
Rice Terraces
The Ifugao high rice fields have been shaped by the mountain ranges for 2,000 years. A stunning
landscape that embodies the harmony between people and the environment. They are the result of
wisdom passed down from one generation to the next, as well as the expression of holy traditions and a
delicate social balance.
Mt Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary
An essential habitat for a variety of plant and animal species. Eight of the vulnerable and unique plant
and animal species are found solely at Mount Hamiguitan, and the site features terrestrial and water
ecosystems at various elevations.
Puerto-Princesa Subterranean River National Park
A breathtaking limestone karst environment with an underground river may be found in this park. The
region serves as an important habitat for the preservation of biodiversity. The region boasts some of the
most significant woods in Asia and a complete "mountain-to-sea" ecology.
Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park
The North Islet serves as a breeding spot for birds and sea turtles, making it a rare example of an atoll
reef with a high density of marine species. The location is a superb example of a virgin coral reef,
complete with two coral islands, a stunning 100-meter perpendicular wall, and expansive lagoons.
National Symbols Of The Philippines
 National Tree: Narra
 National Flower: Sampaguita
 National Bird: Philippine Eagle
 National Gem: Philippine Pearl
 National Sport: Arnis
 National Motto: "Maka-Diyos, Maka-tao, Makakalikasan, at Makabansa"
 Unofficial Symbols
 National Hero: Jose Rizal
 National Dance: Cariñosa
 National Animal: Kalabaw
 National Fish: Bangus
 National Leaf: Anahaw
 National Fruit: Mango
 National Costume: Baro't Saya and Barong Tagalog
 National Slipper: Bakya
 National House: Kubo
Other notable information about the PhilippiGeographicalnes
 Corregidor: Officially named Fort Mills, was the largest fortified islands protecting the mouth
of Manila Bay prior to World War I with powerful coastal artillery. Americans called it "The
Rock" or even the "Gibraltar of the East". After the fall of Bataan it was the last resistance of
the Filipino and USAFFE forces.
 Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park lies in a unique position in the centre of the Sulu Sea. This
marine and bird sanctuary is focused on two uninhabited atolls and a reef. It boasts a very high
 concentration of marine species with, some 600 fish species, 360 coral species and 100 bird
species.
 Pungapung a perennial, stemless herb. Corm is depressed-globose, up to 30 centimeters in
diameter, flowering before leafing every year from the previous year's corm. Stem-like
structure, which bears the lamina, is merely the petiole, 1 meter or more high, radically
developed from the corm.
 Sinarapan (Mistichthys luzonensis) is one of 7 fish species endemic to Lake Buhi of
Camarines Sur. It is the world's smallest commercial fish.
 Copper is the leading mineral export of the Philippines. Philippines Exports of copper was
US$2.27 Billion during 2022, according to the United Nations COMTRADE database on
international trade. Philippines Exports of copper - data, historical chart and statistics - was last
updated on June of 2023. Copra is the leading agricultural export of the Philippines. Coconut
oil, which is derived from copra, is the Philippines top export commodity.
 Waling-waling is considered to be one of the most beautiful orchids in the world. Note that the
family Orchidaceae has many beautiful orchids, but the waling-waling stands out for its
spectacular form, color and size. It has played a major role in orchid hybridization, which
makes it a recognized and acclaimed orchid.
 Lanzones - "Queen of the Philippine Fruits"
 Mango - "Czarina of Philippine Fruits"
 Durian "King of Fruits"
 Pineapple - "Princess of Fruits"
 Mangosteen - Davao's Queen of Fruits. mangosteen is commonly known as the "Queen of
Fruit" It is a round fruit with thick purple colored skin. which is opened to reveal a white sweet-
sour fruit.
GEOGRAPHY Part V
ATMOSPHERE
The atmosphere is a layer of gas and suspended solids extending from the Earth's surface up many thousands of
miles, becoming increasingly thinner with distance but always held by the Earth's gravitational pull.

Layers of Atmosphere

 Troposphere
lowest part of the atmosphere the part we live in. It contains most of our weather clouds, rain, snow. In this part
of the atmosphere the temperature gets colder as the distance above the earth increases Contains about 75% of
all of the air in the atmosphere, and almost all of the water vapour. Lowest part of the troposphere is called the
boundary layer.

 Stratospheres
It contains much of the ozone in the atmosphere. The increase in temperature with height occurs because of
absorption of ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun by this ozone

 Mesosphere
Protects the Earth from large meteoroids. It's in the mesosphere where it serves as a shield for meteorites.

 Thermosphere
Greatly helps in protecting the Earth and making complete exploration of the space and making space
communication possible. The hottest part of the atmosphere. Solar particles trapped here interact with different
types of gas molecules, mostly nitrogen and oxygen, resulting in unique, colored displays of light.

 Exosphere
the very edge of our atmosphere. This layer separates the rest of the atmosphere from outer space. the planet's
first line of protection against the sun's rays. It is the first layer to shield the Earth from meteors, asteroids, and
cosmic rays.
Types and Classification of winds
Classification of Wind
1. Primary Wind
2. Secondary Wind
3. Tertiary Wind
Primary Wind or Planetary Wind
Constantly blow throughout the year in a particular direction. Primary winds are also known as prevailing
winds or planetary winds. Trade winds, westerlies and easterlies are different types of primary wind.
Secondary Wind or Periodic Wind
Winds that change their direction in different seasons. Secondary winds are also known as seasonal winds and
periodic winds. Secondary winds occur in many locations throughout the world. A particular secondary wind
and the underlying physical forces that drive the wind depends upon the unique geographic location. One of the
most commonly recognized secondary winds is the monsoon wind.
Moonsoon Wind
a wind that occasionally changes its direction between summer and winter in low-latitude areas. Monsoons
typically flow from land to water in winter and from water to land in summer, causing a significant change in
the region's temperature and precipitation patterns.
a) Northeast monsoon (Amihan) - Cold winds from the northeast that bring rains over the eastern side of the
country. Happens during November to February.
b) Southwest monsoon (Habagat) - generally expected to begin around the beginning of June and fade away by
the end of September.

Tertiary Wind or Local Wind

Blow only during a particular period of the day or year in a small area. These winds blow due to the difference
in temperature and air pressure of a specific location.
Types of Winds

 Polar Easterlies are cold, dry, and year-round winds that blow from the Northern Hemisphere's north to
south and from the Southern Hemisphere's south to north.
 Westerlies. They blow in the direction of subpolar low pressure belts from subtropical high pressure
belts. These winds are also known as Shrieking Sixties, Furious Fifties, and Roaring Forties.
 Tropical easterlies, also referred to as trade winds and blow to the right in the northern hemisphere and
to the left in the southern hemisphere.
TYPHOON
A typhoon is a massive, spinning storm that carries with it wind, rain, and devastation. Typhoons have been
demonstrated to have a major negative, but temporary, impact on local economic activity.
- Cyclones-South Pacific, Indian Ocean
- Hurricane North Atlantic, central North Pacific, and eastern North Pacific.
- Typhoons Northwest Pacific.
Wind speed describes how fast the air is moving past a certain point..
Wind strength is the pressure exerted by a wind.
Gustiness is the peak wind speed or the sudden, temporary increase in wind speed.
How Is Wind Measured?
The wind has speed as well as direction, to measure this parameter, two different devices are used:
Anemometers are a common weather station instrument which is used for measuring the speed of the wind.
Wind vanes are also known as weather vane, which is used for determining the direction of the wind.
Classifications of Philippine Typhoons
Typhoons are categorized in the Philippines based on their greatest sustained winds and intensity. They are as
follows, according to the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration
(PAGASA):
1. Tropical Depression (TD). It is a tropical cyclone with maximum sustained winds of 61 kilometers per hour.
2. Tropical Storm (TS). Maximum sustained winds range from 62 to 88 kilometers per hour.
3. Severe Tropical Storm (STS). Maximum sustained winds range from 87 to 117 kilometers per hour.
4. Typhoon (TY). If the greatest wind speed hits 118 to 184 kilometers per hour, it is classified as a typhoon.
5. Super Typhoon (ST). If the wind speed surpasses 185 kilometers per hour, it is categorized as a Category 5
typhoon.
Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal
A Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal (TCWS) is a plain text warning to particular land area that may experience
winds of at least strong breeze in strength on the Beaufort Scale (i.e., 39 km/h, 22 kt or higher) within at most
36 hours from the time the signal is put into effect during the passage of a tropical cyclone. A particular wind
signal has an equivalent expected wind threat, length of time (in hours) before onset of expected wind threat,
and potential impacts to the locality.
The current TCWS system uses five (5) levels of wind signals that are numbered from 1 to 5, with a higher
signal number associated with higher general wind strength and shorter warning lead time.
Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal #1
- WIND THREAT: 39-61 km/h
- WARNING LEAD TIME: 36 hours
- POTENTIAL IMPACTS:
 House of poor construction, old dilapidated structures, and other structures made of light materials will
suffer minimal to minor damage.
 Some banana and similar plants are tilted, while twigs of small trees may sway with the wind. Rice
crops, especially those in flowering and ripening stages, may suffer some damage.
 Minimal disruption to public transportation.
Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal #2
- WIND THREAT: 62-88 km/h
- WARNING LEAD TIME: 24 hours
- POTENTIAL IMPACTS:
 Minor to moderate damage may occur to makeshift or old dilapidated structures, and other structures
made of light materials.
 Houses of poor and average construction may receive minor roof damage.
 Unsecured, exposed lightweight items may become projectiles which may cause additional damage.
 Some electrical wires may be blown down, resulting in local power outages.
 Minor to moderate disruption to public transportation.
 Most banana and similar plants are tilted, with some stooped or downed. Some small trees blow over,
with twigs and branches of frail trees broken.
 Considerable damage is likely to rice and other similar crops, especially those in flowering and ripening
stages.
Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal #3
- WIND THREAT: 89-117 km/h
- WARNING LEAD TIME: 18 hours
- POTENTIAL IMPACTS:
 Makeshift or old, dilapidated structures, and other structures made of light materials may suffer
 substantial damage.
 Houses of poor or average construction will have considerate roof damage, some blown-out windows,
and/or partial wall damage.
 Well-constructed houses may suffer minimal to minor roof damage
 Warehouses and other buildings in industrial parks may suffer minor to moderate damage.
 Unsecured, exposed outdoor items of light to moderate weight may become projectiles, causing
additional damage or injuries.
 Many areas may suffer power outages with numerous downed power lines and posts. Minimal to minor
disruption in telecommunications and potable water supply.
 Moderate to significant disruption to public transportation
 Some small trees, most banana and similar plants, and a few large trees are downed or broken.
 Rice and other similar crops, especially those in flowering and ripening stages may suffer heavy
damage.
Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal #4
 WIND THREAT: 118-184 km/h.
 WARNING LEAD TIME: 12 hours
 POTENTIAL IMPACTS:
 Severe damage will occur to makeshift or old, dilapidated of light structures, and other structures made
of light materials.
 Houses of poor or average construction may receive major damage, including complete roof
 failure and possible wall collapse; a few may suffer severe damage.
 Most well-constructed houses may suffer minor to moderate roof damage,
 with some houses experiencing major roof failure; blown out windows are also likely.
 Failure of aluminum and steel roofs and coverings may occur in buildings at industrial parks.
 Some glass in most high-rise office buildings may be blown out; a few of these buildings may have
minor to moderate damage and higher proportion of blown-out windows due to swaying.
 Considerable airborne debris will be generated and may cause damage, injury, and possible fatalities.
 Near total loss of power supply and telecommunications due to numerous downed power lines, poles,
and cellular towers. Diminished availability of potable water supply is also likely.
 Significant to severe disruption to public transportation.
 Significant damage to banana and similar plants. Most small tress and some large trees will be broken,
defoliated, or uprooted. Almost total damage to rice and other crops.
Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal #5
 WIND THREAT: 185 km/h or higher
 WARNING LEAD TIME: 12 hours
 POTENTIAL IMPACTS:
 Severe to catastrophic damage is expected to houses of poor or average construction, makeshift or old,
dilapidated structures, and other structures made of light materials.
 Well-constructed houses may suffer substantial roof and wall failure or damage.
 Many industrial buildings will be destroyed, with only few receiving partial roof and wall damage.
 Most windows will be blown out in high-rise office buildings; Moderate structural damage is possible
due to swaying. Extensive damage will be cause by airborne debris. People, pets, and livestock exposed
to the wind are at great risk of injury or death.
 Electricity, potable water supply, and telecommunications will be unavailable for prolonged periods due
to significant disruption in infrastructure.
 Prolonged significant to severe disruption to public transportation.
 Vast majority of the trees will be broken, defoliated, or unrooted.
  Banana and similar plants will be extensively damaged. Few trees, plants, and crops will survive
Strongest Typhoon
Typhoon Haiyan or Yolanda - the most powerful tropical cyclone ever to hit land and perhaps the most
powerful in recorded history. It had a wind speed of 315 kilometers per hour, 215 kph wind strength and
gustiness of 250 kph.
Pacific Ocean covers more than one-third of the earth's surface and is surrounded by a series of mountain
chains, deep-ocean trenches and island arcs called the "ring of fire"
Ring of Fire, also referred to as the Circum-Pacific Belt, is a path along the Pacific Ocean characterized by
active volcanoes and frequent earthquakes. The majority of Earth's volcanoes and earthquakes take place along
the Ring of Fire.
Active Volcanos in The Philippines
Volcanoes are classified as active, dormant, or extinct.
Active volcanoes have a recent history of eruptions; they are likely to erupt again.. Dormant volcanoes have not
erupted for a very long time but may erupt at a future time. Extinct volcanoes are not expected to erupt in the
future.
Mayon Volcano
The province of Albay in the Philippines' Bicol region is home to the active stratovolcano known as Mayon. A
well-liked tourist destination, it is revered in Philippine mythology and is known for its "perfect cone" due to its
symmetric conical shape.
The Mayon volcano, which has erupted more than 52 times in the last 500 years, is the most active in the
Philippines. Its initial eruption was dated by historical observations to 1616. The six-day eruption of July 20,
1766, was the first eruption for which a detailed record is available.
Taal Volcano
Situated in the province of Batangas, is the second-most active volcano in the nation. Fish species that are
unique to Taal Lake make the lake of international significance. These fish are oceanic species that are
frequently used as food around the world and have adapted to this habitat of high sulfur yet fresh water.
The two endemic fish species in Taal Lake are:
1. Gnatholepis volcanus
2. Rhinogobius flavoventris.
Tawilis is the only freshwater sardine in the world, and it can only be found in Taal Lake, a crater lake formed
by the active Taal Volcano. Its most popular endemic species is the overharvested Sardinella tawilis, a
freshwater sardine.
Kanlaon Volcano: With a height of 2,465 meters above sea level, Kanlaon, is an active stratovolcano and the
highest
mountain on the Philippine island of Negros as well as the highest point in the Visayas. The peak of
Mount Kanlaon is the 42nd-highest island in the world.
Mount Bulusan: The fourth most active volcano in the Philippines after Mayon, Taal, and Kanlaon, it has
erupted 15 times since 1885. It is situated in the province of Sorsogon in the Bicol Region, 390 kilometers
southeast of Manila, the Philippine capital, and 70 kilometers southeast of Mayon Volcano.
Smith Volcano: A cinder cone on Babuyan Island, the northernmost of the Babuyan series of islands in the
Luzon Strait, north of the main island of Luzon in the Philippines, is the Smith Volcano, also known as Mount
Babuyan. One of the Philippines' active volcanoes, the mountain last erupted in 1924.
Mt. Hibok-Hibok: Philippines' youngest volcano. It is a stratovolcano on the Philippine island of Camiguin. It
is a member of the Pacific ring of fire and one of the nation's active volcanoes.
Mt. Pinatubo: The Philippine provinces of Zambales, Tarlac, and Pampanga are all in Central Luzon on the
northern island of Luzon, and Mount Pinatubo is an active stratovolcano in the Zambales Mountains. Before the
pre-eruption volcanic activity of early 1991, most people were unaware of its eruptive history.
Musuan Peak: also called Mount Calayo, is located near Maramag, Bukidnon, on the Philippine island of
Mindanao. It is located 81 kilometers (50 miles) southeast of Cagayan de Oro and 4.5 kilometers (2.8 mi) south
of Valencia in the province of Bukidnon.
Mount Isarog: In the province of Camarines Sur, is Mount Isarog, an active stratovolcano. Hot springs and
active fumaroles can be found on the mountain. It is 2,011.6 meters above the mean sea level. It is the tallest
mountain covered in trees in Southern Luzon.
Mt. Banahaw
The three-peaked volcano is situated where the provinces of Quezon and Laguna meet. It dominates the
landscape for kilometers around and is the tallest mountain in both the provinces and the Calabarzon region.
Mount Banahaw is thought to be a wellspring of mental energy and a spiritual mountain. As such it attracts a
variety of mystics, psychics, faith healers, hermits, religious pilgrims and cults. Religious visitors are said to
commune with mountain spirits.
Mt. Arayat
a dormant stratovolcano in Pampanga It contains a smaller andesitic dome in the collapse amphitheater and a
breached crater on its northwest side. Locals respect this mountain as sacred and mysterious since it was once
the residence of Apu Sinukuan.
Mt. Makiling
An inactive stratovolcano. The mountain is the highest peak of the Laguna Volcanic Field, rising to a height of
1,090 meters above mean sea level. In addition to serving as the source of the natural springs that are a
prominent tourist destination in Los Baos, Mt. Makiling is a significant watershed.
Notable People in Geography

 Eratosthenes - Father of Geography

 Alexander von Humboldt - Father of Modern Geography
 Ptolemy-Geocentrism
 Copernicus - Heliocentrism
 Gerardus Mercator - Mercator projection