Humans in the Outback

Adapting to Arid Climates:

Water Management:

• Rain soaks soil and percolates (trickles) down into bedrock. Over years it gradually collects. If you dril a borehole it comes up by natural pressure
• Use boreholes to tap into artesian water
• Farms have dams and resevoirs

Clothing:

• Head to foot loose fitting, lightly coloured clothing
• Prevents sunburn
• Reduces water loss through sweating and reflects sun's heat
• Head covering eg. Tuareg keep head cool

Transport:

• 4x4 but they can get stuck
• Light aircraft and transaustralian railway are more reliable than cars
• Traditionally camels are used because they can go days without water

Energy Use:

• Air conditioning uses a lot of energy
• Solar panels work very well
• Deserts have strong winds so wind turbines work very well too

Building Styles:

• Thick walls keep heat in and cold out
• Flat roofs - good sleeping area
• Underground buildings in Coober Pedy to keep cool

Aborigines:

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