Interconnectedness of the Spheres: A Study of Japan and Mongolia's Geological Features, Climate, and Biodiversity

Physical Geography 1
Name
Professor
Physical Geography
12 Apr 2018
INTRODUCTION
Japan and Mongolia are both endowed with various geological features. Specifically, both
countries have mountains which are of different significance to each. There is a relationship between the
atmosphere, lithosphere, hydrosphere and biosphere. Noteworthy both countries has geological features.
In addition, both countries face climatic challenges and threat from human activity. However, there are
measures in place to restore balance.
LITHOSPHERE
JAPAN
Notably, Mount Fuji is the highest mountain in Japan with an elevated 12388 feet off the
ground .Mount Fuji is situated on the Honshu Island in Japan. Additional, Japan’s northern and Southern
Alps are among the highest mountain range in the country. These mountainous forms have created
revenue for the Japanese government due to their size, tourism thrives(Worldatlas,2018).In Japan,
mountains have a religious and cultural significance .Further, the mountain range are home to alpine
vegetation which is unique as they develop along the mountain slopes. Uniquely, some Japanese
population have extended their settlement near the mountain slopes (World atlas, 2018).In addition, Japan
is endowed with the Ocean dome which is the largest indoor beach in the world. The Ocean dome
occupies 1200miles and it is situated at the Kyushu Island. As shown in “seas and

Physical Geography 2
oceans”photograph.Approximately, the beach is 300 m long and 100m wide. The fact that it is an indoor
beach and large make it a magnet for tourists.
MONGOLIA
Mongolia’s Gobi desert is the largest in Asia thus making it a tourist attraction as showed in the
“gobi” photograph. The desert is spread across China and Mongolia. The Gobi desert stretches 16000km
in length and approximately 1000 km in width (Platanovich & Allito).The Gobi desert is endowed with
dinosaur fossil thus making it a tourist attraction site to the rest of the world and a source of revenue for
the Mongolian government. For the Mongolian population, mountains are of a spiritual significance. The
Tavan Bogd is the highest mountain in Mongolia, shared by Russia and China. It is located 4374 m above
sea levels. The mountain is significant due to the adventure of climbing the mountain. At the Khuiten
peak, the Tayan Boyd is at its highest.
ATMOSPHERE
Noteworthy, Japan has four seasons ;winter,spring,summer and Autumn.Specifically,summer is
experienced within the months of June-August, Autumn from September to November, Spring extends
from march to May and Winter covers December to February. Temperature in Tokyo during the winter is
around 4.5 degrees celcious with a precipitation figure of 52 p(mm).During Spring, Tokyo temperature
ranges 14.6 degrees Celsius with a precipitation rate of 125p(mm)(J.N.T.O). Recently, Japan‘s climate
has been experiencing some changes owing to the global warming and other reasons. Rainfall and rising
temperature has been the common trend in Japan. This climatic changes are likely to affect Japan
negatively in various areas. Some areas are likely to experience drought while others natural disaster
owing to too much downpour (‘Climate change...).Japan’s response to climate changes has been mainly
due to the implementation of environmental sustainable practices.
MONGOLIA

Physical Geography 3
Primarily, the climate in Mongolia is characterized by summers and winters. Approximately,
Mongolia enjoys 250 days of sun yearly thus making it a very sunny. The temperature is considered
diurnal all year round. For Mongolia, the summer season is warm and dry whereas its winters are
extremely cold.Noteworhy, Mongolian climate is considered the most continental in the world.
Averagely, the temperature in Mongolia between the months of November and March is -0 degrees
Celcious.During winter season, the average temperature is -40 degrees Celcious. At summer, the average
temperature is often above 40 degrees celcious (Weather Online).Owing to the global warming and other
climatic changes, Mongolia has also felt the effects of climate change. ).Specifically, desertification, low
water volumes for most water bodies, increased number of pests and rodents and reduced biomass volume
are some of the consequences of climate change in Mongolia(Ministry of environment).
HYDROSPHERE
Notably, Japan is boarded by the Pacific Ocean. In addition, Japan has its own share of large
water bodies such as the Yoshinogawa,Ara-Kwa among others. In addition, Japan boarders the Sea of
Japan. The Sea of Japan is 1752 m deep and covers 978000 square meters (‘Sea of Japan”).Noteworthy,
the Khovsgol Nuur is the largest fresh water source for Mongolia (World Atlas).The lake covers 136km
in the North west region of the country.Further,the lake boarders the Russian border. However, the
Khosvgul Nuur is considered the second biggest lake in Mongolia. The lake stands at 1645metres above
sea level. Also, the lake freezes during the winter thus raising challenges for the Mongolian people. The
second largest water body in Mongolia is the Hovd River.
BIOSPHERE
JAPAN
Noteworthy, Japan has a wide diversity of biodiversity. Among the commonest animal
species in Japan are the Tanuki (dog), wild boar, bears. Native animal species in Japan include
the Ussuri bear, Sika deer, Serow, flying squirrel and the Leopard cat among others(‘3D