Final answer:
Africa's four distinct climate zones: tropical rainforest, savanna, desert, and Mediterranean, influence its diverse ecosystems, weather patterns, and agricultural practices.
Step-by-step explanation:
The four distinct climate zones of Africa are tropical rainforest, savanna, desert, and Mediterranean. These climate zones contribute to Africa's rich biodiversity and are spread across different parts of the continent due to its vast size and geographical diversity.
Tropical Rainforest
Tropical rainforests receive high amounts of rainfall and are located near the equator. They host diverse plant and animal life and exhibit warm temperatures year-round.
Savanna
The savanna is a grassy plain with occasional trees, which stretches across the continent and is known for wet and dry seasons. It supports large populations of wildlife, including many large herbivores and predators.
Desert
The Sahara is the most well-known desert in Africa, characterized by very little rainfall and extreme temperatures. It is one of the hottest places on earth and covers a significant part of Northern Africa.
Mediterranean
The Mediterranean climate is found on the northernmost and southernmost tips of the continent. It offers dry summers and mild, rainy winters, facilitating the growth of crops such as olives and grapes.