Mongolia – Low Population Density

Full Notes Version (for understanding)

Location

• Mongolia is located in Central Asia, between Russia and China.

• It has a very large land area of about 1,564,000 km², but a very small population.

• The population density is only about 2 people per km², making it one of the least densely populated countries in the world.

Causes of low population density

• Mongolia has a very harsh continental climate, with extremely cold winters that can reach −30°C.

• Much of the country is located at high altitudes (900–1500 m), which makes settlement and farming difficult.

• Large parts of the country consist of desert and semi-desert landscapes, such as the Gobi Desert.

• The growing season is very short (about 90 days), limiting crop farming.

• The difficult climate and relief make agriculture challenging, so fewer people can live from farming.

• Mongolia is landlocked, making trade and economic development more difficult.

• Infrastructure is limited; only about 20% of roads are paved, making transport difficult in many areas.

• Many people rely on livestock herding, which requires large areas of land and therefore leads to a low population density.

Impacts of low population density

• People living in remote areas have difficulty accessing services such as healthcare and education.

• Poor transport and communication make access to markets and trade difficult.

• There are fewer economic activities and job opportunities in rural areas.

• Many people migrate from rural areas to cities, especially the capital Ulaanbaatar, to find work and better services.

What You Actually Need to Memorise (Exam Version)

Location

• Mongolia (Central Asia)

What the case study shows

• Very low population density

Key facts

• Population density 2 people per km²

• Area 1,564,000 km²

Causes (2)

• Very harsh climate (winters as cold as −30°C and short growing season).

• Desert areas, high altitude, and poor infrastructure make settlement difficult.

Impacts (2)

• Poor access to healthcare, education and services in rural areas.

• Rural–urban migration due to limited jobs and economic opportunities.

✅ Quick memory version (5 lines)