Question

How crops spread east-west vs. north-south

Answer 1

Crop spread is influenced by geography and climate, with the 100th meridian marking a divide between the Wheat Belt and Corn Belt in the US. Agricultural diffusion, such as that of maize from Mesoamerica, allows crops to spread across similar climates, while crops like rice show how expansion can also occur north-south due to multiple harvests and higher yields.

Step-by-step explanation:

The spread of crops such as wheat, corn, and rice is significantly influenced by the geographical orientation of the continents. For example, the 100th meridian divides the United States into the humid eastern half, known as the Corn Belt due to its suitable conditions for corn and soybeans, and the drier western half, where conditions favor the growth of wheat, known as the Wheat Belt. The soil and climate conditions of these belts play a crucial role in determining which crops are planted. For instance, the rich topsoil of the Corn Belt once supported tallgrass prairies, while the drier conditions and less productive soil of the Wheat Belt supported short grass prairies.

Agricultural practices and crop cultivation have historical roots in how they have spread. The diffusion of maize from Mesoamerica and wheat cultivation from the Fertile Crescent to northern Europe shows how crops can expand horizontally across similar climates. Conversely, wet rice agriculture in southern regions, particularly advantageous in areas like Southeast Asia due to the possibility of multiple harvests and the crop's impressive yields, illustrates a north-south type of expansion.

Answer 2

The spread of crops can be influenced by various factors, including climate, geography, soil conditions, and historical agricultural practices. Here are some general considerations for the spread of crops in the east-west vs. north-south directions:

1. **Climate Zones:** East-west spread is often influenced by similar climate zones, where crops that thrive in similar temperature and precipitation conditions can be cultivated across a wide east-west expanse. In contrast, north-south spread may involve adapting to changes in temperature and daylight variations.

2. **Latitude and Temperature:** North-south spread is affected by changes in latitude and temperature gradients. Crops adapted to specific temperature ranges may spread more effectively along latitudinal lines. East-west spread may be influenced by temperature similarities within similar latitudinal bands.

3. **Geographical Barriers:** Natural geographical features like mountain ranges, rivers, or deserts may present barriers to the spread of crops. East-west barriers might hinder the movement of crops with different water or sunlight requirements, while north-south barriers could affect crops adapted to specific temperature ranges.

4. **Historical Agricultural Practices:** Cultural and historical agricultural practices play a role. For instance, the historical movement of civilizations or trade routes could influence the east-west spread of certain crops.

5. **Soil Types:** The distribution of different soil types can impact crop cultivation. If certain crops prefer specific soil conditions, their spread may align with the distribution of those soil types, whether in an east-west or north-south direction.

6. **Global Trade and Transportation:** In modern times, global trade and transportation have significantly influenced the spread of crops in all directions. Crops are often transported across latitudes and longitudes based on market demand and economic factors.

It's important to note that these are general observations, and the spread of crops can vary significantly depending on specific regional conditions and human influences. Additionally, advancements in agriculture, technology, and globalization continue to reshape patterns of crop cultivation around the world.