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Analyse the data shown in Figure 7a and Figure 7b - AQA - A-Level Geography - Question 4 - 2018 - Paper 2
Question 4
Analyse the data shown in Figure 7a and Figure 7b. Figure 7a, on the inset, shows the predicted effects of a 3 °C increase in temperatures on crop yields due to cli... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Analyse the data shown in Figure 7a and Figure 7b - AQA - A-Level Geography - Question 4 - 2018 - Paper 2
Step 1
Analysis of predicted changes to crop yields due to climate change
Answer
Figure 7a illustrates a broad range of predicted changes to crop yields by 2050 due to a 3 °C increase in temperatures. Most crop-producing regions are expected to experience negative changes in yields, with areas displaying significant decreases located in the Northern Hemisphere, particularly in North America, Europe, and Asia. For instance, regions in Southern Europe show decreases of over 60%.
Conversely, some areas, particularly in Africa, are predicted to show lesser impacts. Countries like North Korea and several in East Africa may experience increased yields, albeit with notable undernourishment levels among their populations.
Step 2
Analysis of population undernourishment
Answer
Figure 7b highlights the percentage of the population that was undernourished in 2013 across various countries. It indicates a significant correlation between crop yield declines and high levels of undernourishment, especially in sub-Saharan Africa.
Countries experiencing yields decrease may have up to 35% or more of their population undernourished, as seen in parts of Southern Africa and Central America. Conversely, areas with lower levels of undernourishment, such as parts of South America and Eastern Europe, tend to show more stable crop yields.
Step 3
Connections between Figures 7a and 7b
Answer
Both figures present a compelling connection between predicted yield declines and the levels of undernourishment. Areas that are projected to face severe yield losses (greater than 60%) correspond with higher percentages of undernourished populations, often exceeding 25%.
Moreover, regions with minimal crop yield changes (below 5%) generally also exhibit low undernourishment rates. This can be observed when comparing countries in North America and certain areas of Europe where agricultural systems are more resilient.