All the most interesting about watermelons. Extra-curricular activities in geography "Geographic Ball of the Old Parts of the World" and "Geographic Ball of the New Parts of the World"

Many of us at least once in our lives have tasted the largest berry on Earth. Indeed, among the former CIS countries, watermelon is quite popular due to its amazing shape, bright appearance and sweet unique taste.

Due to its availability, we are used to seeing it on store shelves, and therefore do not think about the unique properties of watermelons. So let's figure out what watermelons are, what useful properties they possess, and also try to cook pickled watermelon!

HOMELAND OF WATERMELON

Watermelon is native to the Kalahari and Nabib deserts in the south and the deserts of Sudan in Central Africa. However, since ancient times, watermelon has been successfully grown in Europe, Asia, America, a large number in China, and, despite the difference in climate from the native, watermelon is also grown in cooler areas such as the Volga region of Russia.

YELLOW WATERMELON

For many, watermelon rind is associated with striped green, dark or light, depending on the variety. But the breeders did not pass creativity and here. Therefore, at present, we can see a strange yellow watermelon, in which the fruits have a yellow peel and even white.

Watermelon pulp can also be not only traditionally red, but also white, yellow, pink or crimson. The pulp of watermelon tastes juicy and very sweet.

In addition to excellent taste, this berry also has a number of useful properties for the human body. What are the benefits of watermelon? Is watermelon as healthy as it tastes good? Has our body correctly determined the usefulness of this largest berry by taste?

WHAT IS THE USE OF WATERMELON

It should immediately be noted that we are talking about watermelon grown without nitrogen fertilizers under normal conditions, plucked in time and not spoiled by improper storage. With regard to such a watermelon, all experts in the field of nutrition and human health agree on one opinion: the benefits of watermelon are indisputable.

How many useful substances are there in watermelon, as well as what effect they have on our body

Name	Qty	Impact on the human body	Consumption rate per day	Note
Water	80-90%	Washes out toxic substances and salts.	2.5 - 3.5 liters (depending on weight and metabolism)	With a lack - dehydration, deterioration of health.
Glucose (monosaccharide)	1,1–2,8 %	Universal source of energy. Needed to nourish the brain. Provides cells with energy. Promotes the absorption of fructose. The excess is converted to fat.	185 gr. with a weight of 70 kg	Even a slight deficiency of glucose can cause convulsions in a person, clouding of consciousness, up to and including death.
Fructose (monosaccharide)	1,4–4,6 %	Under its influence, metabolic processes are accelerated.	15 grams, but not more than 25 grams	With a deficiency - hypoglycemia (lowering blood sugar).
sucrose (disaccharide)	0,5–5,4 %	It is broken down into glucose and fructose 50 + 50% (this process consumes calcium, so it is necessary to increase calcium intake when eating sugar). In large quantities - an appetite stimulant.	30 grams (6 teaspoons), but not more than 50 grams	In case of deficiency: lowering blood sugar; a significant decrease in mental and physical activity; weakness; weight loss; violation of metabolic processes; constant sleepiness; dizziness; headache; constipation; development of colon cancer; hand tremor; hunger.
Lycopene (red pigment)	23 mg/kg	Promotes the breakdown of fat. Increases immunity. Increases the resistance of DNA to damage by free radicals, which slows down the aging process. Prevention of oncological, cardiovascular, eye diseases. Strong antioxidant.	5-10 mg	It is non-toxic, but with an excess, the skin and liver turn red, and its level in the blood rises. It is treated with a three-week diet.
Cellulose (vegetable fibers)	4gr/kg	Promotes proper digestion, regulation of sugar and cholesterol levels. Reduces the likelihood of heart disease. Normalizes intestinal peristalsis.	Depending on weight, sex and age from 21 to 38 grams	Deficiency leads to disruption of the gastrointestinal tract.
vitamins
A (ER), retinol	0.17 mg/kg	Improves eyesight. Promotes normal metabolism. Necessary for the growth of new cells, slows down the aging process.	800-1000 mcg With a constant overdose, albeit small, accumulation occurs.	Deficiency leads to changes in all organs and systems of the body, including: blurred vision, malnutrition, respiratory diseases, impaired growth in children. With an excess, headaches, nausea, diarrhea are possible. An overdose of pregnant women is especially dangerous, it leads to miscarriages or fetal malformations.
B1 (thiamine)	0.4 mg/kg	Participates in all metabolic processes of the body.	1.3-2.6 mg	Deficiency leads to irritability, memory impairment, insomnia, disruption of the brain, numbness of the limbs, paralysis; loss of appetite, weight loss. Overdose was not observed.
B2 (riboflavin)	0.6 mg/kg	Important for good vision, healthy skin and mucous membranes, for the thyroid gland, for the reproductive function of the body. Antioxidant	1.3-1.6 mg	Deficiency leads to loss of appetite, weight loss, headache, dizziness, pain in the eyes; anemia, nervous disorders. Overdose is unlikely, excess is excreted in the urine. With an excess, urine becomes bright yellow.
B9 (folic acid)	0.08 mg/kg	Takes part in the functions of the hematopoietic organs, liver, intestines. Helps with the absorption of B vitamins. Important for pregnant women. Restores vitality, copes with heartburn and removes swelling. Reduces the risk of stroke.	200 mcg	Take better with vitamins C and B12. The deficiency causes a general deterioration in well-being, anemia, abdominal pain, hair loss, birth defects of offspring, dementia. Overdose is dangerous by intoxication (vomiting, bloating), sleep disturbance at night.
C (ascorbic acid)	70 mg/kg	A powerful antioxidant that protects the body from viruses and bacteria. Strengthens immunity. Improves absorption of calcium. Participates in the synthesis of proteins needed for the growth of body cells. Regulates hematopoiesis, metabolism in the body. Removes toxins, incl. nitrates.	45-70 mg Disease, stress, climate change, old age require an increase in dose.	The disadvantage entails: lethargy, irritability, insomnia, depression; dry skin, soreness, bleeding gums, inflammation of the mucous membranes; frequent colds, scurvy. Overdose leads to skin itching, diarrhea, irritation of the urinary canal.
E (TE), tocopherol	1 mg/kg	Vitamin of youth and fertility. Normalizes the functions of the immune system, blood circulation, nervous system and muscle function. Powerful antioxidant.	0.3 mg/kg Safe, non-toxic	Deficiency leads to: dry skin, blurred vision, muscular dystrophy, anemia, fatty deposits in the muscles, impaired coordination of movements, sexual apathy. Excess can cause nausea.
Vitamin B3, PP (Niacin equivalent)	3 mg/kg	Participates in redox processes, tissue respiration, the breakdown of food during digestion. Lowers cholesterol levels. Expands small vessels (including the brain). Antioxidant.	18-25 mg	Deficiency leads to: dizziness, fatigue, headaches, pain in the limbs, memory loss, dementia, weak sexual desire. With an excess, dryness of the skin and mucous membranes, a feeling of heat, arrhythmia are observed; nausea and vomiting, diarrhea.
beta carotene	1 mg/kg	As a result of oxidation in the liver, it turns into vitamin A (retinol). Powerful antioxidant. Immunostimulator.	1.8 - 5 mg.	With a deficiency, dry skin, unhealthy hair and nails, weakened immunity, and visual impairment are observed.
macronutrients
Calcium	140 mg/kg	It is part of bone and dental tissue. Affects muscle contraction. Coordinates the heartbeat. Regulates pressure. Participates in the transport of nutrients to cell tissues, transmission of nerve impulses.	800-1200 mg. Non-toxic, no lethal outcomes were observed with increased consumption.	In case of deficiency: weakness, fatigue; pain in muscle and bone tissues, spasms; bone fractures, vertebral deformity, osteoporosis, joint damage; urolithiasis disease; impaired immunity; allergic diseases; decrease in blood clotting. Excess can lead to angina pectoris, gout; excretion of zinc, magnesium, iron and phosphorus from the body.
Magnesium	120 mg/kg	Antidepressant. Ensures the normal absorption of other necessary substances. Necessary for the normal functioning of muscles and nerves.	400 mg maximum allowable 800 mg.	Deficiency leads to fatigue, insomnia, loss of appetite, disruption of the adrenal glands, intestines; hypertension, arrhythmias, angina pectoris, the development of diabetes mellitus, immunodeficiency. In excess, there is: loss of strength, lethargy; hyperthyroidism, arthritis, soy deposits in the kidneys, psoriasis.
Sodium	160 mg/kg	Sodium is present in all human organs, tissues and fluids. Participates in the secretion of hydrochloric acid in the stomach, the mechanism of short-term memory. Supports water-salt balance. Normalizes kidney function and neuromuscular activity. Reduces the risk of sun or heat stroke.	4-6 grams is about 10-15 grams of table salt.	In case of deficiency: diseases of the digestive tract, leg cramps, apathy, drowsiness, confusion, lowering blood pressure, tachycardia. With excess consumption: fluid retention in the body, difficulty in the work of the heart and kidneys, increased pressure.
Potassium	1100 mg/kg	Regulates the water balance of the intercellular and cellular fluid, water-salt balance. Normalizes the level of blood pressure. Essential for protein synthesis and conversion of glucose to glycogen. Improves the functioning of the kidneys and intestines. Participates in the transmission of nerve impulses.	2 grams For athletes and people with heavy physical labor up to 5 grams. The toxic dose is 6 grams, the lethal dose is 14 grams.	The disadvantage is: to mental exhaustion, muscle weakness, decreased immunity, disruption of the kidneys, lungs, reproductive system, ulcers, gastritis, increased pressure, heart failure. Excess leads to: to irritability, hyperactivity, anxiety, sweating; arrhythmias; paralysis of skeletal muscles; disruption of the intestines, increased urination; increased risk of developing diabetes.
Phosphorus	70 mg/kg	Provides normal growth of bone and dental tissue. It is part of the enzymes that control chemical processes in cells; into bone and nervous tissue.	1200 mg	With a deficiency, there are: weakness, fatigue, muscle and bone pain, decreased immunity. Violation of the body as a whole. With an excess, calcium is expelled from the body.
trace elements
Iron	10 mg/kg	Necessary for the formation of hemoglobin, the growth process of the body, the transport of oxygen in the body. Ensures the normal functioning of the thyroid gland.	15-20 mg Toxicity threshold 200 mg. The lethal dose, depending on various parameters of a person, is from 3 to 35 grams.	Deficiency leads to anemia, depression, brain disorder, deterioration of the whole organism. Excess is fraught with inhibition of the antioxidant system, the development of heart disease and malignant tumors.
L-citrulline (a-amino acid)	3 g/kg	Supports the body's natural production of arginine. Removes ammonia and lactic acid. Restores reserves of ATP and creatine phosphate after physical exertion. Tones, normalizes metabolic processes, has an adaptogenic effect.	from 6 to 18 grams	No side effects have been identified.

As can be seen from the table, the watermelon pulp contains a lot of sugars: glucose, fructose and sucrose, due to which the watermelon has a pleasant sweet taste.
As mentioned above, during storage, the amount of sucrose increases, while glucose and fructose decrease. This makes watermelon less attractive in terms of the percentage of these sugars, as sugar is broken down in the stomach and this takes valuable microelements for our body.

The nutritional value of watermelon is low. Watermelon is not a rich source of either vitamins or trace elements. Although it should be noted that both vitamins and trace elements are present in it.

However, two things make watermelon unique: lycopene, the pigment that makes watermelon flesh red, the strongest antioxidant carotenoid present in human blood, and a considerable amount of L-citrulline (3 g/kg), which is very useful for everyone who is connected. with physical activity.

WATERMELON JUICE

From the juice of watermelon, “watermelon honey” is prepared - nardek. Ice cubes from watermelon juice are used to wipe the skin of the face and neck. Watermelon juice is drunk 20 minutes before meals or in between meals to recover from serious illness and reduce swelling. It is enough to take a glass of watermelon juice to get rid of heartburn.

Athletes are also advised to drink a glass of natural freshly squeezed juice an hour before training. According to scientists, this reduces the recovery time of the heart rate and significantly reduces muscle pain. This happens due to the ability of L-citrulline to remove ammonia and lactic acid.

WATERMELON SEEDS

Watermelon seeds contain up to 25% fatty oils (linoleic, linolenic and palmitic acids), they are similar in chemical properties to almond oil and therefore can replace it, and to taste - to olive oil.

Watermelon seeds are a source of various useful substances: protein, unsaturated fat, minerals and vitamins.
Dried watermelon seeds are lightly sprinkled with salted water and fried in a dry frying pan until blackened. In this form, they can simply be eaten or added to muesli and other dishes.

WATERMELON PEEL

Watermelon rinds increase urination, but do not irritate the urinary tract and kidneys. For medicinal purposes, watermelon rinds are dried, crushed, then infused in boiling water.

BUY WATERMELON. HOW TO CHOOSE A RIPE AND SWEET WATERMELON CORRECTLY?

First of all, we pay attention to external qualities. Watermelon should be large, but not heavy, with a dried, but not too dry stalk, have a small yellow spot from lying on the ground. Upper layer the peel should be smooth, shiny and without a matte coating. The crust should have clear stripes of the pattern, while it should be firm and not pierced with a fingernail. It is a pity that there is no water container at the point of sale, otherwise it would be very easy to choose a watermelon: a ripe one does not sink in water

USE OF WATERMELON

We slow down aging. Just 250 grams of watermelon will provide you with a daily dose of lycopene.
We train in comfort. Athletes are advised to drink a glass of natural freshly squeezed juice an hour before training. According to scientists, this reduces the recovery time of the heart rate and significantly reduces muscle pain.
We cleanse the body. Since ancient times, the watermelon diet has been known, better than which it is difficult to come up with a remedy for cleansing the body. With this diet, only watermelons and black bread are allowed to be eaten. The amount of watermelon consumed is calculated at the rate of 1 kilogram of watermelon per 10 kilograms of a person's weight. In just 5 days of such a diet, you can cleanse the body of salts and toxins, wash your kidneys and urinary tract from small stones and sand. In Soviet times, such a diet was used in the sanatoriums of Central Asia with a very hot dry climate, which actually contributed to the revival of kidney patients. Doctors recommend watermelons to all those who have a tendency to form sand and stones in the kidneys and liver, as well as for anemia and gout.
We get rid of toxins. Are you poisoned? Do you need to do something urgently? Do you have any toxins in your body? Watermelon will help to quickly get rid of toxins, both in case of acute food poisoning, and after a course of taking antibiotics or other medications.
We improve the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract. Watermelon is a choleretic agent and by eating it, a person improves the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract.
We take care of the heart and blood vessels. Thanks to the fiber contained in watermelons, the body is freed from excess cholesterol, which is main reason atherosclerosis.
Lose weight with watermelon. Watermelon is an ideal product for those who want to lose weight, since its energy value is only 38 calories / 100 grams of product. In addition, when it is used, a feeling of fullness quickly comes. The composition of watermelon includes folic acid, which normalizes the body's fat metabolism.

WATERMELONS FOR THE WINTER

Have you decided to use watermelons not only in season, but also in winter, but you don’t know how best to save them? Or maybe you just didn’t know how to choose the right watermelon and bought an unripe one? There is a great option - pickling, pickling and also preservation of watermelon.

There are many recipes for marinade and fermentation of watermelons.

PICKLED WATERMELONS. CLASSIC RECIPE FOR MARINING AND STEERING WATERMELONS

For 1 kg of watermelons:

0.5 l of water
35 ml vinegar 9%
1.5 tbsp Sahara
0.75 tbsp salt

The pickling method is well known to us from the pickling of any vegetables and, in essence, is no different:

Sugar and salt are poured into a saucepan with water, brought to a boil, boiled for 10-15 minutes, vinegar is added, and if there is sediment, filtered. That's it, the marinade is ready.

The watermelon itself is cut into small pieces, placed in a jar (usually with a capacity of 3 liters), poured with hot brine, and then everything is done using the technology of ordinary kitchen seamings.

Pickled watermelons

Watermelons: select medium-sized, slightly unripe, but not green watermelons or varieties most suitable for such preparations, with a hard rind, unbroken.

Watermelons are washed, laid in rows in a washed and well-steamed tub, shifting each row with rye straw scalded with boiling water. They press it with a wooden circle with holes drilled in it, put oppression on top and pour it with cold brine.

If desired, of course, you can cut the watermelons and put them in jars. In this case, the crust can be cut off.

Then everything is according to the practice of fermentation. Those. keep the jars warm until the brine turns white. When it turns white, transfer to a cool place. A little more (2 - 3 days) - the white coating settles and the product is ready for use.

Now let's figure out how pickled watermelon differs from pickled. Yes, almost nothing. The only difference is the presence of vinegar in the marinade.

However, because of this little thing, the process changes dramatically. Vinegar is a ready-made preservative that greatly inhibits all fermentation processes, and therefore all marinade lovers are proud of the non-cloudy composition of their marinade products.

But let's take a closer look at what happens during fermentation.

After filling the jars with brine, the process of lactic acid fermentation begins. Approximately the same process as in our stomach. And there are two incredibly useful things going on here: one is the development of the bacteria themselves, which grow very quickly in incredible numbers and are by themselves the most easily digestible protein; the second is the fermentation of fermentation products, i.e. the harvest product itself becomes easily digestible. For its breakdown, the body needs to spend much less energy and microelements, and microelements and vitamins pass into a more easily digestible state.

But we must remember: so that the fermentation does not ferment, it must be cooled. At the same time, a white coating falls out at the bottom. What is a settled white coating? Of course it's squirrels! They are especially valuable for those who limit the consumption of meat products.

The benefits of brine are undeniable. Everyone knows this. But what about the marinade?

Yes, actually, no way. Vinegar suppresses all microflora, products are saturated with salt, sugar and spices, that's all. But the banks look nice, clean.

AND FINALLY FOR REAL GOURMETS THE RECIPE OF SAUCE, RECOGNIZED ONE OF THE MOST DELICIOUS:

You will need: watermelon, salt, dill, garlic, hot pepper, water.

Pickle: 600 gr. salt dissolve in 10 liters of boiling water, cool.

Cut watermelon into long slices.

Put dill, garlic (several cloves) and hot peppercorns on the bottom of a ten-liter tub. Lay the first layer of watermelon slices on top. Then again lay the dill, garlic and hot peppers, garlic watermelon cloves ... and so on until filling. Up - a circle, on a circle - oppression. Fill everything with brine. Naturally, all products must be completely in brine. We wait in the heat for 3 days, until it becomes cloudy, and transfer to the cold. A refrigerator or cellar will do. After precipitation, fermentation is ready.

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2. This island state is located in the eastern part of the sea, washing the coast of three parts of the world. In the past, this country was a British colony. It is among the top ten countries in the world in terms of the size of the merchant fleet. One of the main export items of the country is citrus fruits. International banks are active here. The country attracts a large number of tourists.
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4. This highly developed country has access to the Atlantic Ocean. It borders on land with only one state. A profitable EGP creates an opportunity for economic cooperation with many countries of the world. The form of government is a constitutional monarchy. A feature of its nature is the marine type of climate. The area of new development in this country is the shelf zone of one of the seas washing its territory, where oil is being produced. The largest urban agglomeration in the part of the world where this country is located has formed around the capital.
5. This country is located entirely in the Western Hemisphere and has access to three oceans. On the mainland, where the country is located, it is the first in terms of area and the third in terms of population. The country has well developed sectors of both mining and manufacturing industries. In the international geographical division of labor, it acts as a supplier of products for engineering, metallurgy, fuel, chemical and timber industries.
6. The territory of this country is located in the northern and southern hemispheres. It is in the top ten in terms of population. largest countries peace. The predominant religion is Islam. In the international geographical division of labor, the country is presented as an exporter of oil and natural gas, light industry products, valuable woods, palm oil and natural rubber. International tourism is developing. Tourists from all over the world are attracted here not only by beautiful beaches with white sand, but also by formidable volcanoes and impenetrable jungles inhabited by exotic animals and birds.
7. This highly developed country is one of the largest countries in Europe. Of the minerals, it is best provided with iron ore, bauxite, and uranium raw materials. Nuclear power plants predominate in the structure of its electric power industry. natural conditions favorable for agriculture, which is characterized by the development to the same extent of crop production and animal husbandry. Cultivation of wheat, sugar beets, grapes are branches of international specialization.
8. This country, which is home to approximately 2% of the world's population, is one of the main centers of economic power modern world: it accounts for about 14% of world GDP. Its form of government is a constitutional monarchy. One of the world's largest importers of mineral raw materials and fuel resources. The country occupies one of the first places in the world in the production of many types of engineering products, is among the leading countries in the production of electricity, chemical industry products, and steel smelting. One of the world's largest urban agglomerations has formed around its capital.
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10. This country has access to the seas of two oceans. In terms of population, it is the second on the mainland on which it is located. The country is developing both extractive and manufacturing industries. continues to play a significant role in the economy Agriculture, whose main export crop is cotton. The main sources of foreign exchange earnings are the export of natural gas, international tourism and the operation of its international maritime canal linking the two oceans.
11. This federal republic has access to the seas of the Atlantic Ocean. The relief of the country is dominated by plains, with the exception of the extreme south: mountains rise here. The country is located in the temperate climate zone. There are reserves of hard (the largest coal basin in the region) and brown coal, potash salts. On the territory of the country there is one of the largest urban agglomerations of the part of the world in which this country is located.
12. The territory of this country is washed by the waters of two oceans. The natural landscape - humid equatorial forests - alternates with agricultural plantations, where rice, hevea and other tropical crops are grown on fertile soils fertilized by volcanic ash. The population of the country exceeds 200 million people. The country actively participates in the international geographical division of labor, being a member of OPEC.
13. Latin American country with a federal form of administrative-territorial structure. It is one of the world's major oil producers, the only country in its region that is a member of OPEC. Oil refining, petrochemistry and metallurgy have been dynamically developing recently. The country is systematically implementing a regional policy aimed at developing areas of "new development".
14. This country is located in two parts of the world, its territory is washed by the waters of the seas belonging to two oceans. Most of its territory is occupied by deserts. The country has its own oil reserves. One of the largest hydroelectric power stations on the continent was built here. The capital is the largest city in the country.
15. This country is located in southern hemisphere. She has no access to the sea. A large river flows through its territory, which divides the state into two almost equal parts - western and eastern. Official language- Spanish. The main exports are cotton, soybeans and vegetable oils. The main trading partners of the country are Argentina and Brazil, with which it borders.
16 . This country is one of the ten largest countries both in terms of area and population. The complex ethnic composition of the population is the result of a mixture of local residents, African blacks and European immigrants. Almost half of the total population lives within a narrow seaside strip in the east of the country. The development of its economy is facilitated by a good supply of natural resources - forest and water, hydropower, reserves of iron, manganese and aluminum ores. Significant and own oil reserves. Despite the steady positive pace of economic development, in terms of GDP per capita, the country lags behind economically developed countries by 3-4 times.
17. This country is located in Asia. The relief is predominantly mountainous and therefore almost the entire population is concentrated on the coastal lowlands and in river valleys. In terms of population, it is one of the ten largest countries and has one of the most high levels urbanization in the world. The country is a leader in the production of many types of manufacturing products, which form the basis of its exports.
18. The considerable length of the country along the Pacific coast from north to south determines the presence on its territory of natural zones from deserts to mixed forests. The main mineral wealth of the country is copper, which is exported to the world market.
19. This peninsular state is a constitutional monarchy in form of government. It is among the economically developed countries, but is not among the top ten countries in terms of total GDP. It has a modern diversified industry, and favorable agro-climatic resources contribute to the development of agriculture, which is based on subtropical agriculture. A variety of recreational resources attract numerous tourists from all over the world.
20. This country has a land border with Russia. The population has a homogeneous ethnic composition and professes mainly Catholicism. In the economy, along with mechanical engineering, chemistry and the textile industry, great importance has a coal industry.
21. This country has long been a colony of Spain. Currently, it is among the leaders among developing countries in many socio-economic indicators. Despite the fact that the country has a rich raw material base for the development of industry, there are almost no world-class deposits here. The natural basis for the development of the country, located in three climatic zones, was rich land resources. The country is one of the major exporters of wheat, corn, and meat.
22. The territory of the country is stretched in the meridional direction for more than 3.7 thousand km, located in the temperate, subtropical and tropical zones. The level of urbanization is very high (86%), with a third of the country's population living in the capital. It acts as a major supplier of food and agricultural raw materials on the world market.
23. July is the peak of winter in this country. One of the characteristic features of nature is the wide distribution of deserts. The capital is not the largest and not the "oldest" city. The average population density is less than three people per 1 sq. km. One of the directions public policy carried out for the purpose of its sustainable development, is the implementation of a uniform resettlement of the population throughout the country.
24 . The peninsular state is a kingdom in form of government. In terms of the structure of the economy, it is an agrarian country with an intensively developing industry, whose share in GDP is almost a third. Priority industries: electronics, light industry. Wonderful sea coasts, protected islands, palaces and Buddhist temples attract foreign tourists here.
25. This country is the largest on the continent in terms of population. Its capital is not the most Big City countries. The main wealth of the country is oil. The country is a member of OPEC.
26. The country is entirely in the Southern Hemisphere. A significant area of the territory and a diverse relief (mountains in the west and plains in the east) determine the diversity of landscapes. The capital, located in the eastern part of the country on the Atlantic coast, is the center of one of the world's largest urban agglomerations. The country has a developed modern industry, but in the international geographical division of labor it is represented, first of all, as one of the largest exporters of agricultural and food industry products.
27. It is one of the most densely populated countries in Europe. Half of its territory lies below sea level, and only in the south does the terrain rise to 30 meters or more. The coastline is formed by alluvial dunes. Behind them are the lands once reclaimed from the sea, called polders and protected by dunes and dams from sea waters.
28. This country is washed by the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans. It is the most populated of the Spanish-speaking countries. At the same time, more than 50 Indian dialects are spoken in some areas. The population is more than 100 million people, of which more than 10 million people live in the capital, which is one of the largest agglomerations in the world. The south of the country is the cradle of one of greatest cultures Maya in human history.
29. This peninsular state is the birthplace of many ancient civilizations. Even in ancient times it was the center of important trade routes. Until the middle of the twentieth century, it was a colony of the British Empire. Having gained independence, it has achieved significant success in economic development, but at the same time, approximately 25% of the population lives below the poverty level. Only about 30% of the population are urban dwellers.
30. This country belongs to the economically developed and is located in the Southern Hemisphere. It is one of the largest territories in terms of area on the mainland, where it is located. Its subsoil is rich in various minerals: diamonds, gold, platinum, uranium, iron ores, coal, etc. The leading branches of its specialization are mining, ferrous metallurgy, engineering, and the chemical industry.
31. This African country, formerly a colony of France, is located on the coast. But, despite this, the climate for most of it is hot and dry. The form of government is a republic. The country's economy is based mainly on the extraction of hydrocarbon raw materials; there are also significant deposits of iron, zinc, lead, copper, arsenic, mercury, and phosphates. In addition, the country has developed the cultivation of wheat, oats, as well as fruits, in particular citrus fruits, and vegetables. The capital of the state is consonant with the name of the country.
32. This state is located in the Southern Hemisphere. Official language- English. The capital of the state is not the largest city in the country. Most of the territory is occupied by vast deserts and lowlands. At the same time, there are a large number of lakes on the territory of the country, which are located in hollows filled with water only after rains. The main natural wealth of the country is mineral resources. The country occupies one of the leading places in the world in terms of bauxite, zirconium, and uranium reserves (1/3 of the world). It has significant reserves of coal, manganese, gold, iron ores, diamonds. At the same time, the extraction of natural resources is only 5% of GDP. Agriculture accounts for 3% of GDP. The service sector, which includes tourism, education and banks, accounts for 69% of GDP.
33 . A state in Africa, a former colony of France and Spain. On its territory there is a large deposit of phosphorites, which it exports to the world market.
34. This country is located on a peninsula. It is one of the largest countries in terms of area on the mainland on which it is located. Most of its territory is occupied by plateaus. Desert landscapes prevail here. Huge reserves of oil are concentrated in the depths. One feature is the low average density population - less than 10 people per sq. km.
35. This country is one of the largest countries in the world in terms of territory and population. It has access to three seas of one ocean. Two great rivers flow through its territory. The country is home to many cultivated plants: rice, millet, soy, tea. Coal, iron ores and many non-ferrous metals are mined.
36. It is one of the largest countries in the world in terms of population and area. It is located in the south of the mainland, in the subequatorial zone. The main part of its territory is occupied by a plateau, to the north turning into a lowland, composed of sediments from two rivers. To the northeast of the lowlands stretched the greatest mountain system.
37. This country does not have access to the World Ocean, and the main feature of the climate is a sharp continental climate. Its largest river flows into the deepest lake in the world. 4/5 of the country's territory is occupied by pastures. The main occupation of the population is nomadic animal husbandry. The population density is one of the lowest in the world - about 1 person per 1 sq. km.
38. This small country is an archipelago. The relief is predominantly mountainous, so almost the entire population is concentrated on the coastal lowlands and in river valleys. It is one of the ten largest countries in terms of population. 80% of the population lives in cities. The country is the world leader in the production of steel, ships, televisions, computers, most of which are exported abroad.
39. This country of ancient culture and many achievements of civilization. According to the state system, it is a federal republic. The economy of the country is industrial-agrarian in nature. At present, it has turned from a country of light and food industry into a country with a developed heavy industry. 2/3 of the active population of the country is employed in agriculture. Agricultural products occupy an important place in exports: the country supplies rice, tea and spices to the world market.
40. This peninsular state of Europe is a republic in form of government. It is among the economically developed countries, is among the top ten countries in terms of total GDP and has a modern diversified economy. Favorable agro-climatic resources contribute to the development of agriculture, which is based on subtropical agriculture. Numerous monuments of cultural heritage attract tourists from all over the world.
41. This island nation is washed by the waters Pacific Ocean. It is among the economically highly developed. Population growth is largely due to migrants. Mountainous and hilly terrain prevails. Approximately 51% of the country's territory is occupied by pastures and arable land. Agricultural products account for more than half of exports. The main agricultural products are meat, dairy products and wool.
42 . This economically developed capitalist country is inland in terms of geographical location. Its capital is located on the Danube, ½ of the territory is occupied by young mountains, the slopes of which are covered with coniferous, oak, beech and ash forests. It has 500 lakes, as a result of which this country is called the Lake District.
43 . Despite the fact that this economically developed country is dominated by industry and services, agriculture not only provides the population with food, but is also an export industry. However, the contrasts between the agricultural specialization of the north and south of the country are significant. In the north, wheat, corn, and rice are grown; viticulture predominates in the south, allowing the country to be one of the largest wine producers in the world.
44. This country owns archipelagos in the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, which have now become famous resorts. In terms of the total number of tourists and the production of grape wines, the country ranks second in the world, and the first in the production of olives. Once a powerful maritime power, now it is a medium-developed capitalist country with an industrial-agrarian economy.
45. This country is a republic in terms of the form of government, a unitary state in terms of the form of territorial and administrative structure, and an island state in terms of geographical location. It is located in the northern part of the ocean, near the Arctic Circle. Almost the entire territory of the country is a volcanic plateau. The basis of the economy is fishing. Most of the electricity is generated by geothermal power plants. The national composition is homogeneous. The population density is low, but the standard of living is very high.
46. This country is a monarchy in terms of the form of government, a unitary state in terms of the form of territorial and administrative structure, and a peninsular state in terms of geographical location. The northwestern part of the territory is occupied by flat-topped mountains, the main natural zone is the zone of coniferous forests. The country's main natural resources are timber, iron ore, and hydropower resources. The main industry is the automotive industry, the leading branch of agriculture is dairy farming.
47. This country is a monarchy in the form of government, a unitary state in the form of territorial-administrative structure, has a land border with only one state. Basic mountain range- The Penin Mountains, all the rivers belong to the Atlantic Ocean basin, high tides are observed on the coast. In the Middle Ages, the basis of the economic activity of the country was sheep breeding, at present it is a powerful industrial country with a predominance of mechanical engineering, metallurgy, coal and textile industries.
48. This state belongs to Eastern Europe and is geographically inland. Most of the territory is plains surrounded by a ring of low mountains. The country's capital is located on the Vltava River, which is a major tributary of the Elbe River. In the world market, the country is known for its glass, beer, cars.
49. The main minerals of this country are potash and rock salts, peat. Most of the territory is occupied by a low plain, 1/3 of the territory is swampy. Pine and birch forests alternate with numerous lakes; numerous rivers (Neman, Berezina, Dnieper, Zapadnaya Dvina) formed wide floodplains, overgrown with oak forests. On the territory of this country there is a unique nature reserve, where part of the nature characteristic of Eastern Europe of the medieval period is preserved.
50. This country is a constitutional monarchy, a kingdom. It is located on peninsulas, the southern part is washed by the sea from the west, and by the bay from the east. The main territory is occupied by mangrove and variable-moist forests and thickets, in the northwest - mountains. The national composition is diverse, Buddhism prevails. The mining industry is developed: extraction of tin, lead, tungsten, precious stones; mechanical engineering: consumer electronics; agriculture: rice and rubber plants, tourism is also developed. Harvested several times a year. ASEAN member.
51. This is the state South-East Asia, a former English colony. A large river flows through the territory of the state, originating in Tibet and belonging to the basin indian ocean. Over millions of years, alluvial deposits have filled the valley, which produces three crops of rice a year. A large number of tame elephants work in logging. In the capital of the country there is the world's highest golden pagoda, which is 2.5 thousand years old.
52. This state of Southwest Asia is a sultanate, an absolute monarchy. Like many countries in the Persian Gulf, there are significant oil reserves. However, this country is not included in OPEC. In addition to oil and oil products, gold, silver and edged weapons are supplied to the world market.
53. This is the state Central Asia belongs to the CIS. The climate here is continental, with sharp temperature changes. Most of the country is occupied by dry steppes and semi-deserts of the temperate zone. A large number of minerals makes it possible to develop here the mining, fuel industry, ferrous and non-ferrous metallurgy. In terms of the extraction of uranium (40%), chromium (97%), lead (70%), the country occupies a leading position in the CIS. Agro-climatic conditions allow the development of sheep breeding, camel breeding, horse breeding. One of the main branches of specialization is karakul sheep breeding.
54. This state of Southwest Asia is located at the junction of several civilizations - Christian, Muslim, Buddhist. Since the 19th century, the country has become an object of struggle between Great Britain and Russia, and since the mid-50s of the 20th century - the USA and Russia. At present, it is one of the poorest countries in the world, where small-scale agriculture (pomegranates, apricots, quiche-mish grapes, almonds) and mining (precious stones, gas, oil) are developed. In addition, in the shadow sector of the economy, the main source of income is the funds from the sale and shipment of drugs to Europe.
55. This country of Asia is a monarchy, a federation; occupies part of the peninsula and a large island, separated by the sea. According to the UN classification, it belongs to the developing new industrial countries. Currently, there is a rapid development of the manufacturing industry, and many transnational corporations are investing in the country's economy. According to some parameters, the state came out on top in the world in the production of microprocessors and household air conditioners, the extraction of tin ores, and the production of palm oil.
56. This West African country is located on the Atlantic coast. The territory is covered with moist equatorial forests. One of the wettest places in Africa is located here, in some years it rains for seven to eight months. Plantations of hevea, brought here from Brazil, are spread on fertile lands. About 20% of the world's tanker fleet sails under the flag of this country. In terms of iron ore mining, the country ranks first in Africa.
57 . This African country is a former colony of Belgium. Located in the center of the mainland, has a narrow outlet to the Atlantic Ocean. Most of the territory is located in a flat depression occupied by moist equatorial forests. The country is multinational, the most numerous Bantu peoples. The republic occupies one of the leading places in the world in the extraction of cobalt, germanium, technical diamonds; ranks first in Africa in terms of copper, zinc, and tin reserves. Agricultural export crops: coffee, cocoa, natural rubber. Despite rich mineral resources, the country belongs to the poorest countries in the world.
58. This state is called the cradle of human civilization. It is known primarily for the huge monuments of ancient culture dating back to the 2nd - 3rd millennium BC. At present, it is a developing country, known in the world market as a major producer of long-staple cotton, a supplier of oil, phosphorites to the world market and a major tourist center.
59. This African country is located between the Limpopo River and Lake Nyasa and is crossed by the largest river in the Indian Ocean basin, the Zambezi. This is a typically agrarian country with primitive agriculture, since the beginning of the 19th century it began to attract the attention of foreign capital: large deposits of copper and cobalt were found here, for the extraction of which given state ranks third and second in the modern world.
60. By its geographical position, this state of South America is inland. The country speaks two languages - Spanish and Guarani (the language of the tribe of Indians who lived here before colonization by Spain). The main wealth of the country is forests, where many trees of valuable species grow. So, for example, the wood of the quebracho tree is harvested here, from which tannin is produced, which is necessary for processing leathers. It is from here that mate tea, so popular in Latin America, came from, it is here that a unique wax palm tree grows, the leaves of which are covered with a thick layer of wax.
61. This Latin American country is part of the southern wheat belt and is one of the largest suppliers of wheat to the world market. In addition, export products are meat, sunflower oil, soybeans, grapes and grape wines. Over the past decades, there has been a qualitative leap in the production of industrial products, and such industries as mechanical engineering, metallurgy, and energy have begun to develop. The capital of the country is one of the largest cities in Latin America and has concentrated about half of the country's population.
62. This Latin American country is a member of OPEC and is the largest oil exporter. Its territory, located in the subequatorial zone, is covered with tropical rainforests and savannahs, called llanos here. In the impenetrable forests of the country, on one of the tributaries of the Orinoco, there is the highest waterfall on our planet.
63. This highly developed state of America is the largest importer of oil, gas, and iron ore. There are arctic and subtropical deserts, vast forests and endless steppes. In terms of resource consumption and carbon dioxide emissions into the atmosphere, the country ranks first in the world, in terms of the proportion of undernourished - one of the last places.
64 . This state is located in the Caribbean Sea and is the largest exporter of bauxite. In 1670 it became an English colony and the region's largest slave market. Having gained independence (1962), the country remained in the Commonwealth, and British capital still plays a large role in the development of its economy. At present, this small state is known not only for bauxites and alumina, but also for large supplies of rum, sugar, tobacco and fruits.
65 . The territory of this country has access to one of the seas of the Atlantic Ocean. On its territory is located the extreme northern point of the mainland on which this country is located. The nature of the country is diverse: here you can see desert landscapes, olive and orange groves, evergreen Mediterranean forests. The country has a land border with only two states. The name of the capital is the same as the name of the country.
66. This is the most northern country in the world after Iceland. At least a third of this country is located beyond the Arctic Circle. This is one of the most environmentally friendly countries in Europe. More than two thirds of its territory is covered with forests with many lakes. The Lake District covers the eastern and central parts of the country. The climate is temperate continental, with mild snowy winters and fairly warm summers.
67. A feature of the geographical position of this federal republic is its access to the Atlantic Ocean. The country is characterized by high natural population growth. The population of this country is multinational and multi-confessional. The country has one of the ten largest urban agglomerations in the world, but more than half of the country's population are rural residents. The country is a member of OPEC and is one of the world's most important producers and exporters of oil.
68. This is a small African country whose name is the same as the name of its capital. She has a variety mineral resources, including iron, lead-zinc ores, phosphorites. It also produces oil, but the country is not a member of OPEC. Its diverse recreational resources, unique monuments of antiquity (the legendary Carthage was located on its territory) and the warm sea contributed to the transformation of tourism into the leading branch of its economy.

Switzerland
Great Britain
Canada
Indonesia
France
Japan
Egypt
Indonesia
Venezuela
Egypt
Paraguay
Brazil
Japan
Spain
Poland
Argentina
Argentina
Australia
Thailand
Nigeria
Argentina
Netherlands
Mexico
India
Algeria
Australia
Morocco
Saudi Arabia
China
India
Mongolia
Japan
India
Italy
New Zealand
Austria
Italy
Spain
Iceland
Sweden
Great Britain
Czech
Belarus
Thailand
Myanmar
Kazakhstan
Afghanistan
Malaysia
Liberia
DR Congo
Egypt
Zambia
Paraguay
Argentina
Venezuela
Jamaica

66. Finland

67. Nigeria

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Traditionally, on Saturdays, we publish answers to the quiz for you in the Q&A format. Our questions range from simple to complex. The quiz is very interesting and quite popular, but we just help you test your knowledge and make sure that you have chosen the correct answer out of the four proposed. And we have another question in the quiz - What part of the world is considered the birthplace of watermelon?

America
Australia
Africa

The correct answer is D. AFRICA

Watermelons are native to the Kalahari Desert in South Africa. Until now, there are wild watermelons, which are small in size (the size of a tennis ball) and weigh about 200 grams.

Over 4,000 years ago, watermelons began to be grown in Ancient Egypt, as evidenced by the images and seeds of watermelons found in Egyptian tombs. The Egyptians often placed watermelons in the tombs of the pharaohs as a source of food in their afterlife. Later, watermelons began to be cultivated in Persia (Iran), Arabia, India and other Asian countries with a dry and hot climate.

Watermelons were brought to Western Europe in the era of the Crusades about 700-900 years ago. Watermelons came to Russia from eastern and southern countries by sea through Astrakhan.

The Russian name watermelon received from the Turkic word χarbuz / karpuz, which was borrowed from the Persian language. The word “harbuza” (χarbūza, χarbuza) in Persian means “melon”, and the literal meaning of this word is “huge cucumber” or “donkey-sized cucumber”.

To Russia, watermelons up to late XVII centuries were brought from abroad as an overseas delicacy. They didn’t eat them raw then, but the slices were soaked for a long time and boiled with pepper and other spices. The first watermelons were sown according to the royal decree of November 11, 1660, and it was prescribed: as soon as outlandish vegetables (or rather, berries) ripen, immediately deliver them to Moscow. Under Peter I, watermelons were no longer imported from abroad.

Today, edible watermelons grow wild in South West Africa. In rainy years, thickets of wild watermelons form there. By the time the fruits ripen, the stalks dry up. Wind or rain currents drive them long distances. On the way, watermelons are broken or chewed by animals. The sticky sap sticks the seeds to the soil. After the seeds germinate quickly. In some areas of the Kalahari Desert, these wild watermelons are almost the only source of moisture.

A continent is a large landmass surrounded by seas and oceans. In tectonics, continents are characterized as sections of the lithosphere with a continental structure.

Mainland, continent or part of the world? What is the difference?

In geography, another term is often used, denoting the mainland - the continent. But the concepts of "mainland" and "continent" are not synonymous. IN different countries various points of view on the number of continents, called continental models, have been adopted.

There are several such models:

In China, India, as well as in the English-speaking countries of Europe, it is generally accepted that they consider 7 continents - Europe and Asia separately;
In Spanish-speaking European countries, as well as in the countries of South America, they mean the division into 6 parts of the world - with a united America;
in Greece and some countries of Eastern Europe, a model with 5 continents is adopted - only those where people live, i.e. except for Antarctica;
in Russia and the countries of Eurasia adjacent to it, they traditionally designate 4 - continents united into large groups.

(The figure clearly shows different representations of continental models on Earth, from 7 to 4)

Continents

There are 6 continents in total on Earth. We list them in descending order by area size:

— largest continent on our planet (54.6 million sq. km)
(30.3 million sq. km)
(24.4 million sq. km)
(17.8 million sq. km)
(14.1 million sq. km)
(7.7 million sq. km)

All of them are separated by the waters of the seas and oceans. Four continents have a land border: Eurasia and Africa are separated by the Isthmus of Suez, North and South America - the Isthmus of Panama.

Continents

The difference is that the continents do not have a land border. Therefore, in this case, we can talk about 4 continents ( one of the continental models of the world), also in descending order by size:

AfroEurasia
America

Parts of the world

The terms "mainland" and "continent" have a scientific meaning, but the term "part of the world" divides the land on a historical and cultural basis. There are 6 parts of the world, only unlike the continents, Eurasia differs by Europe And Asia, but North and South America are defined together as one part of the world America:

Europe
Asia
America(both North and South), or New World
Australia and Oceania

Speaking of parts of the world, they mean the islands adjacent to them.

The difference between the mainland and the island

The definition of the mainland and the island is the same - a part of the land washed by the waters of the ocean or seas. But there are significant differences.

1. Size. Even the smallest continent, Australia, is much larger in area than the world's largest island, Greenland.

(Formation of the Earth's continents, a single continent of Pangea)

2. Education. All continents have a tiled origin. According to scientists, there was once a single continent - Pangea. Then, as a result of the split, 2 continents appeared - Gondwana and Laurasia, which later split into 6 more parts. The theory is confirmed both by geological surveys and by the shape of the continents. Many of them can be put together like a puzzle.

Islands are formed in many ways. There are those that, like the continents, are located on the fragments of the most ancient lithospheric plates. Others are formed from volcanic lava. Still others - as a result of the activity of polyps (coral islands).

3. Habitability. All continents are inhabited, even Antarctica, which is harsh in terms of climatic conditions. Many islands are still uninhabited.

Characteristics of the continents

- the largest continent, occupying 1/3 of the land. Two parts of the world are located here at once: Europe and Asia. The border between them runs along the line of the Ural Mountains, the Black and Azov Seas, as well as the straits connecting the Black and Mediterranean Seas.

This is the only continent that is washed by all the oceans. The coastline is indented, it forms a large number of bays, peninsulas, islands. The mainland itself is located immediately on six tectonic platforms, and therefore the relief of Eurasia is incredibly diverse.

Here are the most extensive plains, the highest mountains (the Himalayas with Mount Everest), the deepest lake (Baikal). This is the only continent where all climatic zones (and, accordingly, all natural zones) are represented at once - from the arctic with its permafrost to the equatorial with its sultry deserts and jungles.

¾ of the world's population lives on the mainland, 108 states are located here, of which 94 have the status of independent.

- the hottest continent on Earth. It is located on an ancient platform, so most of the area is occupied by plains, mountains are formed along the edges of the mainland. Africa is home to the longest river in the world, the Nile, and the largest desert, the Sahara. Climate types presented on the mainland: equatorial, subequatorial, tropical and subtropical.

Africa is usually divided into five regions: North, South, West, East and Central. There are 62 countries on the mainland.

It is washed by the waters of the Pacific, Atlantic and Arctic oceans. The result of the movement tectonic plates became a heavily indented coastline of the mainland, with a huge number of bays, straits, bays and islands. The largest island is in the north (Greenland).

The Cordillera Mountains stretch along the western coast, and the Appalachians along the eastern coast. The central part is occupied by a vast plain.

All climatic zones are represented here, except for the equatorial one, which determines the diversity of natural zones. Most rivers and lakes are located in the northern part. The largest river is the Mississippi.

Indigenous people- Indians and Eskimos. Currently, 23 states are located here, of which only three (Canada, the United States and Mexico) are on the mainland itself, the rest are on the islands.

It is washed by the Pacific and Atlantic oceans. Along the west coast stretches the world's longest mountain system - the Andes, or South American Cordillera. The rest of the mainland is occupied by plateaus, plains and lowlands.

This is the rainiest continent, since most of it is located in the equator zone. Here is the largest and most abundant river in the world - the Amazon.

The indigenous people are the Indians. Currently, there are 12 independent states on the territory of the mainland.

- the only continent on the territory of which there is only 1 state - the Commonwealth of Australia. Most of the mainland is occupied by plains, mountains are located only along the coast.

Australia is a unique continent with the largest number of endemic animals and plants. The indigenous people are Australian Aborigines, or Bushmen.

- the southernmost continent, completely covered with ice. The average thickness of the ice cover is 1600 m, the largest is 4000 m. If the ice in Antarctica melted, the level of the world's oceans would immediately rise by 60 meters!

Most of the mainland is occupied by an icy desert, life is glimmering only on the coasts. Antarctica is also the coldest continent. In winter, temperatures can drop below -80 ºC (record -89.2 ºC), in summer - up to -20 ºC.