Briefly outline two human factors that are possible causes of desertification in a hot, arid environment.

Briefly outline two physical factors that influence the occurrence of flash floods in hot, arid environments.

Explain three reasons why there are concentrations of people in some parts of hot, arid areas.

Examine the severity of the different challenges for resource development in periglacial areas.

Award [1] for a description of the following, up to [2]:

• overgrazing
• over-cultivation
• deforestation
• overpopulation
• global warming
• mismanagement of water resources.

Award [1] for a description of the following, up to [2]:

• intensity of rainfall
• rain exceeding infiltration
• impermeable desert surface
• lack of vegetation
• other possible answers.

Award [1] for each valid reason, and [1] for development/exemplification.

Possible reasons include:

• mineral deposits
• tourist attractions
• irrigation/oases
• accessible aquifers
• military installation.

Accept other valid reasons.

For example: In Niger, the presence of uranium [1] has led to the development of the town of Arlit / associated settlement and infrastructure [1].

For example: Retirement resorts eg Palm Springs, have been built [1] which attract elderly/retired people who enjoy the hot, dry desert climate [1].

Resource development in periglacial areas is affected by the presence of permafrost. The challenges of coping with the constant thawing and melting require a range of measures in place in order to pursue resource development. Activities and techniques must be constantly monitored and modified in order to maintain infrastructure (transport, pipelines, bridges, airfields), buildings and settlement requirements. Other challenges might include relief, climate, accessibility/remoteness.

There are economic and social challenges for the successful extraction of minerals, for scientific research and for ensuring the long-term viability of the nomadic lifestyles of indigenous people who rely on resources found in these areas.

Good answers might examine explicitly the relative severity of a range of challenges. Another approach might be to examine different periglacial areas and the contexts and challenges they present, eg greater/more severe challenges in areas of discontinuous permafrost / areas with more active layer activity or climate change associated issues. They may also examine the extent to which some challenges may be overcome if the opportunities merit investment.

At band D, expect description of some challenges for resource development in permafrost areas.

At band E, expect either explanation of a range of challenges for resource development in periglacial areas, or a structured examination of the severity of these different challenges (may examine the degree to which they can be overcome).

At band F, expect both.

Marks should be allocated according to the Paper 2 HL and SL markbands.