AP Human Geography Unit 2 Topic 2.1: Population Distribution and Density

Vocabulary flashcards covering population distribution patterns, physical and human factors, density calculation methods, and major global population clusters.

Population Distribution

The spread or pattern of where people are located across Earth's surface.

Population Density

The number of people living per unit of area, usually measured per square kilometer or square mile.

Clustered Settlement Pattern

A settlement pattern in which buildings, people, or activities are grouped closely together in a central area, with relatively little space separating them.

Dispersed Settlement Pattern

A settlement pattern in which buildings, people, or activities are spread out over a large area, with space between each group.

Linear Settlement Pattern

A settlement pattern in which buildings, people, or activities are arranged in a line, typically following a transportation route or a physical feature such as a river, road, or coastline.

Arithmetic Density

Calculated as $\text{Total population} \times \frac{1}{\text{Total land}}$; shows how many people share every unit of land on average.

Physiological Density

Calculated as $\text{Total population} \times \frac{1}{\text{Arable land}}$; measures the pressure a population exerts on arable land.

Agricultural Density

Calculated as $\text{Number of Farmers} \times \frac{1}{\text{Arable land}}$; measures agricultural efficiency by showing how many farmers work the arable land.

Arable Land

Land that is suitable for growing crops.

Ecumene

Land on Earth's surface that is permanently inhabited by human settlement.

Physical Factors

Natural environmental influences including climate, landforms, and water bodies that affect population distribution by making survival easier.

Human Factors

Socioeconomic and political influences including economics, history, culture, and politics that shape where people live.

East Asia Population Cluster

A major world population cluster including Eastern China, Korea, and Japan, with settlement concentrated near fertile river valleys and coastal regions.

South Asia Population Cluster

A major world population cluster including India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, with settlement clustered along the Indus and Ganges river valleys.

Europe Population Cluster

A major world population cluster tied to cities, manufacturing, industry, and jobs connected to the Industrial Revolution.

Southeast Asia Population Cluster

A major world population cluster including Indonesia, the Philippines, and Vietnam, with population clustered on islands and near rivers.