Unit 6.1-6.4

Central Place Theory suggests that settlements are located in a hierarchical pattern with larger settlements serving as __________ that provide goods and services to smaller settlements.

central places

The __________ are physical features of the landscape that can obstruct or block the movement of people or goods, such as mountains and rivers.

topographic barriers

Factors that can contribute to differences in farm productivity include climate, soil quality, technology and infrastructure, agricultural practices, and __________ access.

market

The __________ of rural populations refers to how people are distributed across a rural area, influenced by geographic, infrastructure, economic, and cultural factors.

dispersion

The earliest known urban settlements originated in __________, characterized by a mild climate and fertile soils that made it ideal for agriculture.

Mesopotamia

Urban areas that lack sufficient infrastructure and face challenges such as pollution and congestion are subject to the effects of __________.

urban sprawl

The __________ Movement, founded by Ebenezer Howard, advocated for self-contained communities that combined the benefits of urban and rural living.

Garden-City

A __________ is a geographical region in the United States that includes a core urban area and its surrounding areas connected economically and socially.

Core-based Statistical Area (CBSA)

Louis Wirth defined a city as a permanent settlement of relatively large size, high __________ density, and diverse population.

population

According to the Rank Size Rule, the population of the second-largest city will typically be about __________ the size of the largest city.

half

What is urbanization?

The process by which an increasing percentage of a population lives in cities and urban areas.

What are land use patterns?

The ways in which land is utilized in urban environments, including residential, commercial, industrial, and public use.

Define zoning laws.

Regulations that govern how land can be used, typically outlining areas designated for specific purposes such as residential, commercial, or industrial.

What is mixed-use development?

A type of urban development that blends residential, commercial, cultural, and institutional uses into one space.

What are green spaces?

Parks and recreational areas in urban environments that provide ecological benefits and improve quality of life.

What is gentrification?

The process of neighborhood transformation caused by the influx of more affluent residents, often displacing lower-income residents.

Define urban decay.

The deterioration of an urban area, often due to disinvestment, population decline, and economic downturn.

What is a smart city?

An urban area that uses digital technology and data to improve infrastructure, governance, and services.

What are the benefits of urban agriculture?

Enhances local food production, promotes green spaces, and improves community health and resilience.

Define the term 'cityscape.'

The visual appearance of a city, often characterized by its architecture, buildings, and skyline.

What is sprawl?

The uncontrolled expansion of urban areas into the surrounding rural land.

What are urban heat islands?

Urban areas that experience higher temperatures than their rural surroundings, mainly due to human activities and infrastructure.

What is the function of public transportation in urban areas?

To provide accessible and affordable transit options to reduce traffic congestion and pollution.

Define affordable housing.

Housing that is reasonably priced and accessible to the population, particularly lower-income households.

What is landscape urbanism?

An approach to urban design that emphasizes the integration of landscape design into the planning of urban areas.

What are brownfield sites?

Previously developed land that is not currently in use and may be contaminated, requiring remediation before redevelopment.

What is pedestrianization?

The process of creating pedestrian-only areas in urban spaces, often to promote walking and reduce traffic.

Define urban resilience.

The ability of urban areas to withstand and recover from shocks and stresses, such as natural disasters or economic downturns.

What is a public realm?

The collective spaces available for public use, including streets, parks, and plazas.

What is community engagement in urban planning?

The involvement of community members in the decision-making processes regarding the planning and development of their area.

Define transit-oriented development (TOD).

A planning concept that promotes high-density development around public transit hubs to encourage use of public transportation.

What are livable cities?

Urban areas designed to offer a high quality of life, with accessible services, green spaces, and a sense of community.

Define mega cities.

Cities with a population of over 10 million inhabitants.

What is urban infill?

The practice of developing vacant or underused parcels of land within existing urban areas.

What is a city’s carrying capacity?

The maximum population size that an urban area can support without degrading the environment.

What is urban planning?

The process of designing and regulating the use of land and resources within urban areas.

Define walkability.

The measure of how friendly an area is to walking, based on factors like infrastructure, safety, and accessibility.

What is a cultural district?

An area designated to promote cultural activities, often housing arts organizations, galleries, and museums.

What are urban ecosystems?

The dynamic systems formed by the interactions of living organisms and their environment in urban settings.

Define sustainability in urban development.

The practice of creating environments that meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations.

What is a skyline?

The outline of a city against the sky, often featuring its tallest buildings and landmarks.

What role does architecture play in urban land use?

Architecture shapes the visual and functional aspects of cities, influencing their culture, character, and livability.

What is urban sociology?

The study of social life and interaction in metropolitan areas.

Define urban forestry.

The management of trees and green spaces in urban environments for ecological and aesthetic benefits.

What is transit equity?

The principle that all individuals should have equal access to transportation options and services.

What are urban renewal projects?

Initiatives aimed at revitalizing decaying neighborhoods through redevelopment and infrastructure improvements.

Define food deserts.

Areas with limited access to affordable and nutritious food, often found in low-income urban neighborhoods.

What is urban wildlife?

Animal species that have adapted to living in urban environments, often interacting closely with human populations.

What is the function of a city’s zoning board?

To oversee the implementation of zoning laws and address land use issues.

Define slums.

Overcrowded urban residential areas characterized by substandard housing and inadequate infrastructure.

What is urban density?

The number of people living within a specific area of land, typically expressed as persons per square mile or kilometer.

What is a city’s master plan?

A comprehensive framework for guiding future growth and development of a city.

Define social inequality in urban settings.

The disparity in access to resources, services, and opportunities among different population groups within a city.

What is environmental justice?

The fair treatment of all people regardless of race, color, national origin, or income regarding environmental policies and practices.

What are economic hubs?

Areas in cities that serve as centers of economic activities, often with a concentration of businesses and jobs.

What is the significance of urban design?

The art and practice of shaping the physical features of a city, influencing its functionality and aesthetics.

Define urban anthropology.

The study of how culture and social structures are expressed in urban settings.

What is transportation planning?

The process of devising strategies to improve transportation systems and infrastructure in urban areas.

What are flood zones in urban planning?

Areas identified as prone to flooding where specific regulations exist to manage development and mitigate risks.

What does urban sprawl lead to?

Increased traffic congestion, loss of agricultural land, and environmental degradation.

What is the importance of public spaces in cities?

They serve as gathering places for community interaction, recreation, and social engagement.

Define city branding.

The practice of promoting a city to enhance its image, attract tourism, and bolster economic development.

What role do NGOs play in urban land use?

They often advocate for community needs, sustainable practices, and social justice in urban development processes.