unit 6 Essential Knowledge

Urbanization

The process by which cities grow and develop, influenced by various factors including transportation, communication, and population dynamics.

Megacities

Extremely large cities, often defined as having a population over 10 million, which represent distinct outcomes of urbanization.

Primate city

A city that is the largest and most influential in its country or region, often dominating economic, political, and cultural life.

Burgess concentric-zone model

A model that describes urban land use in a series of concentric circles emanating from the city center.

Walkability

A measure of how friendly an area is to walking, often considered in urban planning for sustainable design.

Redlining

The discriminatory practice in which services are denied to residents of certain areas based on race or ethnicity, often creating disparities in housing and opportunity.

Gentrification

The process of renovating urban neighborhoods, often leading to the displacement of lower-income residents.

Urban sustainability

The ability of an urban area to maintain and improve environmental health, social equity, and economic vitality over the long term.

Edge cities

Suburban areas that have developed their own economic hubs and have become self-sufficient beyond their original metropolitan centers.

Qualitative data

Data that provides insights and detailed descriptions of individual perspectives and attitudes, often derived from interviews or observational studies.

Infrastructure

The basic physical systems and structures that facilitate transportation, communication, and utilities in a city or community.

Zoning practices

Regulations that govern land use, including what types of buildings can be constructed in specific areas, often to promote urban planning objectives.

Environmental justice

The fair treatment and involvement of all individuals in environmental policies, ensuring that no group of people bears a disproportionate share of negative environmental consequences.