People and Places Portfolio: Russia
I Choose Russia
Reflection on the Physical Geography
Russia, the largest country in the world, is located in both Eastern Europe and northern Asia. Its absolute location ranges approximately from 41.1851° N latitude to 77.6281° N latitude and from 19.1118° E longitude to 169.4009° W longitude. Relative to other countries, Russia shares borders with Norway, Finland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Belarus, Ukraine, Georgia, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Mongolia, China, and North Korea. Three significant geographic features of Russia include the Ural Mountains, which traditionally divide Europe and Asia; Lake Baikal, the world's deepest and oldest freshwater lake; and the Siberian Taiga, the largest forested area on the planet.
Summary of the Climate
Russia has a diverse climate due to its vast size, characterized by a generally continental climate with extreme variations in temperature. In the northern regions, average temperatures can drop below -40°F (-40°C) in winter, while southern areas may experience highs of 86°F (30°C) in summer. Precipitation is relatively low, typically ranging from 16 to 24 inches (400 to 600 mm) annually, concentrated mainly in late spring and summer. The typical weather during winter can be harsh and cold, with heavy snowfall, while summers are warm and can be quite humid, especially in the western parts of the country.
Reflection on the Human Geography
The predominant language spoken in Russia is Russian, which is a Slavic language with its own unique alphabet, Cyrillic. The country has a variety of religions, with Russian Orthodoxy being the largest denomination, followed by Islam, particularly in regions such as Tatarstan and Chechnya. The urban population is concentrated in cities like Moscow and St. Petersburg, which are cultural and economic hubs, while a significant portion of the population resides in rural areas, where agricultural activities are primarily conducted. Traditional Russian cuisine includes dishes like borscht, pelmeni, and blini, reflecting the diverse ingredients available in the country. Education is highly valued, with a literacy rate of approximately 99.7%, and there is a strong emphasis on higher education.
Summary of the Economy
Russia is classified as a developing economy, with significant advancements in various sectors. Two major cities are Moscow, the capital and the largest city, and St. Petersburg, known for its historical significance and cultural heritage. The economy heavily relies on exports, particularly natural resources such as oil and natural gas, which make up a significant portion of government revenue. Major imports include machinery, technology, and food products. Russia's primary trading partners include China, Germany, and the Netherlands, creating an intricate network of economic relationships within the global market.
Works Cited
Baker, L. (2021). Geography of Russia: A Comprehensive Study. New York: Geography Press.
Pavlova, I. (2022). Climate and Environment in Russia: An Overview. Moscow: EcoPublish.
(Please replace the citations with actual resources as necessary and ensure relevance to your text.)
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In this portfolio, I have explored and reflected on the various aspects of Russia’s human and physical geography, climate, economy, and cultural attributes, giving a comprehensive overview of this vast country.
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