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Population Distribution and Density - Coggle Diagram
Population Distribution and Density
Definition:
Distribution = how people are spread over a given area.
Density = number of people per km².
Global Patterns:
High density:
Asia, Europe, parts of Africa.
Low density:
Deserts (Sahara, Kalahari), polar regions, mountains.
Factors influencing distribution:
Physical:
Climate: people avoid deserts, polar areas, very hot/cold regions.
Relief: flat, fertile land attracts people; mountains are less populated.
Resources: minerals, water, fertile soils attract settlement.
Human:
Economic: jobs in cities (Johannesburg, Cape Town).
Political: war/conflict reduces population (Syria, Sudan).
Infrastructure: good transport, healthcare, education = higher density.
History: colonial cities (Durban, Cape Town) remain densely populated.
South Africa examples:
High density: Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal coast, Cape Town.
Low density: Northern Cape (arid), parts of Free State.
Consequences:
Overcrowding, informal settlements, unemployment.
Rural depopulation, pressure on resources in cities.