AP Human Geography Unit One

Spatial Perspective

An approach that emphasizes how space is used in human geography.

Place

A specific point on Earth distinguished by particular characteristics.

Region

An area defined by one or more natural or cultural characteristics that set it apart from others.

Scale

The relationship between the distance on a map and the actual distance on the ground.

Human Geography

The branch of geography that deals with human activity and its relationship to the environment.

Cultural Landscape

The visible imprint of human activity on the landscape.

Site

The physical characteristics of a place, such as its terrain, soil, and climate.

Situation

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

Absolute Location

The exact position of a place on the Earth's surface using coordinates.

Relative Location

The position of a place in relation to other places.

Spatial Interaction

The movement of people, goods, and ideas within and across geographic space.

Cognitive Map

A mental representation of geographic space.

Toponym

A name given to a place or a geographic feature.

Geographic Information System (GIS)

A system designed to capture, store, manipulate, analyze, manage, and present spatial or geographic data.

Remote Sensing

The acquisition of information about an object or phenomenon without making physical contact.

Diffusion

The process by which a characteristic spreads across space from one place to another over time.

Scale of Analysis

The scale at which a geographic problem is examined, which can affect how relationships are perceived.

Globalization

The process by which businesses or other organizations develop international influence or start operating on an international scale.

Sustainability

Meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

Locale

A place characterized by its specific physical, social, and cultural features.