Question 1: Define 'sustainable development' in the context of hot deserts.

Answer: Development that meets present needs without compromising future resources or environments.

Question 2: What is 'desertification' and what are its main causes?

Answer: Desertification is the process of land degradation in arid areas caused by factors like overgrazing, deforestation, and climate change.

Question 3: Name two key economic activities associated with desert development.

Answer: Tourism and mineral extraction.

Question 4: Explain the term 'renewable energy' in relation to desert development.

Answer: Energy generated from natural sources that are replenished, such as solar power harnessed in deserts.

Question 5: Give an example of a desert region where renewable energy projects are being implemented.

Answer: The Mojave Desert in California, USA.

Question 1: Which desert is known for the large-scale solar power projects near the Sahara?

Answer: The Sahara Desert

Question 2: Name two minerals commonly mined in desert regions such as Namibia.

Answer: Uranium and copper.

Question 3: What is the primary reason for the growth of desert tourism in places like Arizona?

Answer: The unique landscape and favorable climate attract eco-tourists and adventure seekers.

Question 4: Name one challenge associated with developing renewable energy projects in hot deserts.

Answer: High initial costs and environmental impacts such as habitat disruption.

Question 5: Which country hosts the Namib Desert, a major site for mineral mining and tourism?

Answer: Namibia

Question 1: Describe the main development activities taking place in Namibia's Namib Desert.

Answer: Mineral mining (uranium and copper), tourism centered around Sossusvlei, and renewable energy projects like solar farms.

Question 2: Analyse how mineral extraction has impacted Namibia's economy and environment.

Answer: Mineral extraction has boosted Namibia’s GDP and created employment; however, it has led to environmental issues such as habitat destruction, water pollution, and landscape alteration.

Question 3: Evaluate the sustainability of tourism development in Namibia’s desert regions.

Answer: Tourism provides economic benefits and promotes conservation, but over-tourism can lead to environmental degradation and strain on local resources. Sustainable practices are essential for long-term viability.

Question 4: Identify two challenges faced by Namibia in expanding renewable energy projects in the desert.

Answer: High costs of infrastructure development and ensuring minimal environmental impact.

Question 1: Explain why deserts are suitable for large-scale solar energy projects.

Answer: Deserts have abundant sunlight, high insolation levels, and minimal cloud cover, making them ideal for solar energy generation.

Question 2: Analyse the causes of desertification and its effects on potential development in hot deserts.

Answer: Causes include overgrazing, deforestation, climate change, and poor land management. Effects include loss of arable land, reduced biodiversity, and increased poverty, which hinder development prospects.

Question 3: Explain how climate change could influence future development opportunities in hot deserts.

Answer: Climate change may alter rainfall patterns and increase temperatures, potentially expanding desert areas and affecting water availability, thus impacting development plans.

Question 1: To what extent are renewable energy projects in hot deserts sustainable in the long term? Consider environmental, economic, and social factors in your answer.

Answer: Renewable energy projects in hot deserts can be sustainable due to abundant sunlight and minimal land use conflicts; however, high initial costs, habitat disruption, and resource management challenges pose sustainability concerns. Effective planning, technological advancements, and community involvement are essential to enhance long-term sustainability.