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Population Distribution and density - Coggle Diagram
Population Distribution and density
Key questions
• Why are certain parts of the world densely populated?
• Why are certain parts of the world sparsely populated?
Geo fact
Only 10% of Earth is really suitable for human settlement.
Key words
ecumene - parts of Earth that are suitable for people to live in nonecumene - parts of Earth that are not suitable for people to live in
Unit 2: Factors that affect the distribution and density of the world's population
Geographers use the word ecumene to describe parts of Earth that are suitable for permanent human settlement Nonecumene are places that are not suitable for
humans to live in.
2.1 Why people live where they do
Some countries have large populations, while others have small populations. Also, millions of people live in certain areas, while other places have almost no people.
There are several reasons for this. The following table shows the physical and social factors that affect population distribution and density:
Social factors: linked to humans
Physical factors: linked to the natural environment
Climate: A suitable climate for large human settlements is not too hot, too cold, too wet or too dry.
Water: Settlements need a reliable source of water.
Soil: Soils should be fertile enough to support agriculture.
Relief: Large human settlements usually develop on flat land, rather than in mountainous areas.
Natural environment: Polar areas, deserts and forests are not suitable for large human settlements. However, natural harbours are good for settlements on the coast.
Resources: Settlements usually develop where there are enough resources, such as coal, fish and minerals to support large populations.
Economy: Places with large, developed economies attract people and can support large populations.
Politics: Most people preter to live in places with a stable political system.
Cultural or social factors: Some places have a very old tradition of human settlements.
Transport and communication: A good system of transport and communication attracts people to an area.
Infrastructure: Areas with a good infrastructure, such as water supply, electricity, sewage, waste removal and Internet links can support large populations.