AP Human Geography Ultimate Guide Unit 1-7 Key Concepts

A comprehensive set of flashcards covering key concepts in AP Human Geography, summarizing important terms and their definitions for review.

What is the meaning of 'place' in geography?

An area of bounded space of some human importance.

Define 'toponym'.

A place-name assigned to a location when human importance is recognized.

What changes do attributes of a place undergo?

They change over time.

Explain the concept of 'sequent occupancy'.

The succession of groups and cultural influences throughout a place’s history.

What is the difference between absolute and relative location?

Absolute location uses coordinates to define a point, while relative location compares a place to known places or features.

What is 'distance decay'?

The idea that the farther away places are from each other, the less likely interaction will occur.

What is the 'gravity model' in geography?

A mathematical model used to calculate transportation flow between two points and estimate the flow of migrants.

Define 'agglomeration'.

When clustering occurs purposefully around a central point or economic growth pole.

What are formal regions characterized by?

They possess some homogeneous characteristic or uniformity.

What are the three types of regions in geography?

Formal, functional, and vernacular.

How do 'push factors' influence migration?

They are specific conditions that push people to leave their current location.

What are 'pull factors' in the context of migration?

They are specific conditions that attract people to move to a new location.

Define 'cultural synthesis'.

The blending together of two or more cultural influences.

What does a 'population pyramid' illustrate?

The age and gender distribution of a population.

What is the main focus of demographic transition models?

To show how population changes over time through different stages.

What does the 'rate of natural increase' (RNI) measure?

The annual percentage of population growth in a country.

What is an example of 'urbanization' in demographic transitions?

The movement of populations from rural areas into cities.

What is 'gentrification'?

The economic reinvestment in existing real estate often leading to displacement of lower-income residents.

What is the purpose of the United Nations' Millennium Development Goals (MDGs)?

To eradicate poverty globally.

Explain what 'Friction of distance' refers to.

The concept that distance affects interaction between two points.

What is 'cultural relativism'?

The idea that beliefs and activities should be understood in the context of an individual's culture.