Key Concepts in AP Human Geography

Flashcards covering key concepts in AP Human Geography, focusing on maps, geographic data, human-environment interaction, and urban development.

Choropleth Map

A thematic map that uses colors and shading to represent quantifiable data, showing density but not distribution.

Dot Map

A map using dots to represent a certain value in its approximate location, showing distribution but not density.

Graduated Symbols Map

Maps that feature symbols proportional in size to actual data.

Cartogram

Maps that distort the appearance of places to represent their value, proportional to data.

Isoline Map

Maps that connect areas of equal value, resembling a fingerprint.

Absolute Location

A quantitative measurement of location, specified by coordinates or distance from another point.

Relative Location

A qualitative measurement of location, describing a place in relation to other places.

Map Projection

The method of representing the spherical earth on a flat surface, often causing distortion.

Conformal Projection

Map projections preserving the shape of land features at the expense of their size.

Environmental Determinism

The theory that the physical environment affects human behavior and culture.

Possibilism

The theory that the environment does not solely determine human actions.

Ecumene

Regions of permanent human settlement.

Arithmetical Density

The number of people per square unit of area.

Physiological Density

The number of people per unit of arable land.

Carrying Capacity

The maximum population size that an environment can sustain.

Demographic Transition Model

A model describing the transition of populations from high birth and death rates to low birth and death rates.

Urban Sprawl

The unrestricted growth of low-density urban areas.

Gentrification

The process of transforming a neighborhood by higher-income residents and businesses.

World City (Global City)

A city that has significant influence and functions as a hub for global economic activities.

Primate City

The largest city in a country, focusing resources and services in one location.

Bid Rent Theory

A model explaining land value based on distance from the CBD.

Centrifugal Forces

Factors that divide a state or society.

Centripetal Forces

Factors that unite a state or society.

Neocolonialism

The economic control by developed countries over developing countries through exploitation.

Supranationalism

When multiple countries form an organization to pursue common goals.

Commodity Dependence

When more than 60% of a country's exports consist of raw materials or agricultural products.