Physical Geography of

MexicoMexico

Cortez explained Mexico to his King by crumpling paper and throwing it on the table.Sierra Madres run along Mexico’s East and West. (Occidental = West, Oriental = East)Between them is central Plateau.A peninsula sits on both sides of Mexico. Baja California on West, Yucatan on East.Divided into over 30 states.

Mexico’s Terrain

Central Region

Plateau is most populous region. Several large cities. 4/5 of people live here.Sits on intersection of 4 tectonic plates. Many volcanoes and frequent earthquakes.The surrounding mountains protect from most weather.Weather is usually perfect due to combination of climate and the elevation.

Coastal Regions

Northern Pacific – Baja area. Dry, hot, and thinly populated. Tijuana one of fastest growing cities.

Southern Pacific – Edged by mountains. Has little farmland, but is known for its beaches.

Gulf Coastal Plain – Major oil producer on and off-shore.

Yucatan Peninsula – Mostly flat, composed of limestone. Many underground caverns. Home to many Mayan ruins and the Vacation spot of Cancun.