1.4 AP Human Geo Reading Notes

Spatial Approach

A method that examines the arrangement of phenomena across the Earth's surface, focusing on location, distance, direction, and interconnection.

Four-Level Analysis

A framework used by geographers to explore spatial distributions and answer questions about the placement and changes of phenomena.

Location

A key spatial concept that identifies where specific phenomena are situated, either absolutely or relatively.

Absolute Location

The precise coordinates of a place on a grid system.

Relative Location

The position of a place in relation to other locations.

Place

The specific human and physical characteristics that define a location.

Site

The immediate characteristics of a location, such as soil type and climate.

Situation

The location of a place relative to its surroundings and its connectivity to other places.

Sense of Place

The emotional and personal perceptions individuals have about a location, which can vary based on beliefs and experiences.

Toponyms

Place names that provide insights into the geography, history, or culture of a location.

Distance

A measure of space between two locations, which can be absolute or relative.

Time-Space Compression

The reduction of time-distance between locations due to advancements in transportation and communication.

Spatial Interaction

The movement and flow of people, ideas, and products between locations.

Flow

The patterns and movement of various phenomena, including culture and trade.

Friction of Distance

The concept that distance affects the level of connection between places, leading to distance decay.

Distance Decay

The principle that the influence of a phenomenon decreases as the distance from it increases.

Accessibility

The ease of reaching a location, which has changed due to improved infrastructure.

Patterns

The general arrangement of phenomena that geographers study to identify relationships and causes.

Distribution

The way a phenomenon is spread out or arranged over an area, which helps describe patterns.

Spatial Association

The relationship between two or more phenomena that exhibit similar distribution patterns.