AP AP Resource Geography & Energy Systems

Question 1

Which term describes natural resources that can be replenished naturally over time, such as solar energy, wind, and timber?

Accepted Answer

Renewable resources

Answer

Renewable resources are natural resources that can be regenerated through natural processes within a human timescale, making them sustainable with proper management.

Question 2

The 'resource curse' or 'paradox of plenty' describes a situation where:

Accepted Answer

Countries with abundant natural resources tend to have less economic growth and worse development outcomes than resource-poor countries

Answer

The resource curse suggests that countries with abundant natural resources, especially oil and minerals, often experience slower economic growth, less democracy, and more conflict than resource-poor nations.

Question 3

Which concept describes the minimum amount of a natural resource that can be sustainably harvested without reducing its future availability?

Accepted Answer

Maximum sustainable yield

Answer

Maximum sustainable yield is the largest long-term average catch or harvest of a resource that can be maintained over time without depleting the resource.

Question 4

In which region does the United States obtain the majority of its imported petroleum?

Accepted Answer

Western Hemisphere (Canada, Mexico, South America)

Answer

The U.S. imports most of its petroleum from Western Hemisphere nations, particularly Canada, which is its largest single supplier, reducing dependence on Middle Eastern sources.

Question 5

The 'hydraulic fracturing' (fracking) revolution in the United States primarily changed the geography of:

Accepted Answer

Natural gas and oil production, unlocking shale reserves in new regions

Answer

Hydraulic fracturing enabled the extraction of oil and natural gas from previously inaccessible shale formations, transforming states like North Dakota, Pennsylvania, and Texas into major energy producers.

AP Practice Test

AP Practice Test

AP AP Resource Geography & Energy Systems