What term is used to describe areas of continents that are far from the ocean and resemble prairie?

The correct answer is "steppes," which refers to large areas of grassland that are located in the interior of continents, typically far from oceans. These regions are characterized by their short and sparse vegetation, making them similar to prairies, but they are often found in more semi-arid climates. Steppes can have a moderate climate and are known for supporting a variety of grasses but less tree cover compared to other grassland types.

Deserts, while also dry, do not resemble prairie due to their extreme arid conditions and lack of vegetation. Plains are broader and can encompass a variety of environments, typically flat and fertile but not exclusively grass-covered like steppes. Savannas are grasslands with scattered trees, mostly found in tropical regions, which differentiates them from the more uniformly grass-covered nature of steppes. Understanding these terms helps to clarify the different types of ecosystems found across the continents, especially in relation to their distance from the oceans.