1.1 Changing Population - Geography IB

Question 1

State the physical factors that affect population distribution

Answer 1

Below are physical factors that will attract more population:
- Easy access to sources of water (river, lake, etc.)
- High soil fertility (allows for more agriculture)
- Flat land (easiest to build infrastructure and to grow agriculture)
- Access to deep water ports (allows for international trading)
- Non-harsh weather conditions (not extremely cold or hot for long periods of the year, but instead mild weather conditions)
- Rich in natural resources (iron, timber, oil. etc.)

Question 2

State the human factors that affect population distribution

Answer 2

Below are human factors that will attract more population:
- High job opportunities
- Better quality of life
- Better education
- Better healthcare (including better hospitals, doctors, etc.)
- Low infant mortality
- High life expectancy
- Culture and social factors (people may move closer to their family or within a community like religious or LGBTQ+)

Question 3

Classification of economic development:

Answer 3

LIC –> 26 countries and have a GNI of 1135$ of less.
LMIC –> 54 countries and have a GNI of 1135$ - 4466$
UMIC –> 54 countries and have a GNI of 4465$ - 13845$
HIC –> 83 countries and have a GNI of 13845$ or more.

Question 4

Global pattern for LIC

Answer 4

Low-income countries (LICs) are predominantly located in regions such as Sub-Saharan Africa (Mozambique, Niger, and Burundi) and South Asia (Nepal and Sri Lanka). These nations often experience high levels of poverty, limited access to healthcare and education, and vulnerable economies. International aid and development efforts are commonly directed toward these regions to address the complex issues they face and support their economic growth and development.

Question 5

Global pattern for UMIC

Answer 5

Low-income countries (LICs) are predominantly located in regions such as most of South America, (Argentina, Brazil and Uruguay) Eastern Europe (Poland and Slovakia), and Southeast of Asia (Malaysia and Thailand) and North of Asia (South Korea). These UMICs often experience a range of economic activities, from manufacturing and services to technology and export industries. They play a vital role in global trade and economic development, bridging the gap between low-income and high-income nations.

Question 6

Global pattern for LMIC

Answer 6

Lower middle-income countries (LMICs) exhibit a diverse global pattern, which are located in several specific regions. Sub-Saharan (Tanzania and Kenya) and North Africa (Morroco and Algeria) Middle East (Pakistan and Afghanistan) as well as South Asia (India and Myanmar) are home to a significant number of LMICs, characterized by economic disparities and development challenges.

Question 7

Global pattern for HIC

Answer 7

Western Europe, and parts of Asia. North America, including the United States and Canada, boasts a significant number of HICs, driven by their robust economies and high living standards. Western Europe, with countries like Germany, France, and the United Kingdom, is another prominent region for HICs, benefiting from advanced industries and social welfare systems.

Question 8

Population distribution in China

Answer 8

The densely populated area is in the South East of China. This includes all 10 megacities, which are Shanghai, Zhengzhou, Beijing, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Tianjin, Chengdu, Wuhan, Hangzhou and Chongqing.

The population of the South East of China is 688,036,982 people as of 2023. These areas benefit from a combination of economic opportunities, job opportunities, favorable climates, access to ports, and well-developed infrastructure. In addition, the fertile plains along the Yangtze River (Yellow River), and other river basins support agriculture and have historically been centers of population. These regions offer fertile land for farming, contributing to higher population densities. Zhengzhou, which is one of the megacities is located near the Yangtze river.

The non-densely populated areas are in the North West of China. This includes Tibet, Xinjiang, Qinghai, Gansu as well as the region under Magnolia.

The population of the North West of China is 103,528,786 people as of 2023. This is because of mountainous and desert land, low agriculture due to physical features (mountainous and desert land and it doesn’t rain), no access to ports, high altitude extreme weather also making it harder for agriculture to grow, and limited accessibility (eg. roads). In addition, areas with harsh climates or environmental challenges, such as deserts in the west or the Tibetan Plateau, located in the South West and runs through Xinjian andTibet have lower population densities.

Question 9

Economic development in China

Answer 9

Over the last few decades, China’s economy has grown remarkably, going from being mainly agricultural to being an international economic power. Economic reforms, globalization, and a focus on manufacturing with an export focus have all contributed to this change. China has become the world’s greatest exporter of goods as a result of its quick industrialization and urbanisation, which also contributed to the establishment of multiple megacities and the expansion of its manufacturing industry.

The Chinese government has also made significant contributions to economic growth through focused policies and investments in technology, education, and infrastructure. The nation has also developed into a hub for innovation, with an expanding technology industry and an increase in the number of globally competitive businesses.

Question 10

Voluntary internal migration in China

Answer 10

The internal migration in China is often people moving from the North West to the South East. The North West is rural areas and the South East is the urban areas.

People are mainly internally migrating to the South East in the aim of finding a job and/or a job that pays higher. Jobs, that can be found in the South East that can’t be found in the North West include:
Working in ports (eg. cargo handling, operating machinery, etc.)
Working in tourism (China is the fourth most visited country in the world)
Working in hospitality (hotels, restaurants, etc.)
Working in construction (population in core areas is growing rapidly, and more housing is required)

Question 11

Core and periphery areas in China

Answer 11

China’s core area is primarily located along the eastern coast, experiencing this, while the periphery regions, tend to be the western parts of China.

Question 12

Megacity growth in China

Answer 12

There are 7 megacities in China, which are:
Shanghai
Beijing
Guangzhou
Shenzhen
Tianjin
Chengdu
Chongqing
All the megacities are growing extremely rapidly. Some specific examples of how fast are:
In 2023 Beijing increased its population by 2.03% as of 2022.
In 2022 Shanghai increased population 2.59% as of 2021.

Question 13

Population distribution in USA

Answer 13

The areas in the US that are densely populated consist of the east, and more specifically,
New york,
Chicago,
Miami,
Generally North east.
On the South West side Florida and specifically Los Angeles is very densely populated.
This is because of the huge economic centres that are present, and the immense amount of job opportunities present.
Also:
Extensive transportation networks
Cultural diversity
Entertainment

On the other hand, the areas with sparse population distribution are central-west America and North west. Particularly:
Alaska,
Montana,
Nevada.

Sparse because:
Large land area - uninhabited wilderness
Extreme climates - such as extreme cold temperatures
Water scarcity in nevada
Fewer job opportunities

Question 14

Economic development in USA

Answer 14

The core areas and major cities include:
Chicago
Major transportation and manufacturing hub
Washington DC
Capital
Due to role as political and administrative centre + federal government
Silicon valley
Tech industry
LA
Known for entertainment and media

Periphery:
Alaska
Sparse
Extreme climates
Western - indigenous communities
Limited access to services and transportation
Baltimore maryland
Some core characteristics
High poverty rates
Limited access to quality education
High crime rates
Population loss

Question 15

Voluntary internal migration in USA

Answer 15

Within the US there is a lot of movement (voluntary internal displacement/migration)
A lot of residents are moving out of the west coast (los angeles)
Due to high living expenses
Increase in crime
Increase in pollution
Texas is bringing in many new residents
Due to cost of living being cheaper than california
The east coast is also bringing in more people ( more south east)
Due to diverse economy
Major financial centres

People are also leaving the very densely populated area of New York, due to high living expenses, high state and local taxes and heading to North and South Carolina and texas.

Question 16

Core and periphery areas in USA

Answer 16

The core areas in the USA are:
New york,
Chicago,
Miami,
Generally North east.
On the South West side Florida and specifically Los Angeles is very densely populated.

The periphery areas in the USA are:

Question 17

Megacity growth in USA

Answer 17

There are no actual megacities
Geographic/population distribution
Low population density
Population - distributed across many cities
Various economic structures spread across different cities - no single megacity
History of government + strong sense of regional identity = hard for cities to merge into 1 single megacity
If new york factored in greater metropolitan city it would be a mega city

Question 18

Population change over time

Answer 18

The global population has undergone significant changes over time. In the early 19th century, the world’s population was estimated to be around 1 billion. However, with advancements in healthcare, sanitation, and agriculture, the population began to grow rapidly. By the mid-20th century, the world population had surpassed 3 billion, with notable increases in countries like India and China due to reduced mortality rates.

In recent decades, population growth rates have started to slow in some regions, such as Europe and Japan, due to declining birth rates and aging populations. On the other hand, Africa’s population has seen remarkable growth, with several countries experiencing exponential increases. For instance, Nigeria’s population has nearly quadrupled since 1970, making it one of the most populous nations on Earth.

These demographic shifts have profound implications for various aspects of society, including healthcare, education, and economic development, and they underscore the importance of addressing population trends and their impacts on resource consumption and sustainability.

There are 5 stages in the DTM (demographic transition model). The Western world had gone through stages 2 and 3 much earlier in time. Whereas, developing countries are going through it currently.

1950: 2.5 billion
2006: 6.58 billion people
2023: 7.88 billion people
2050: 9.2 billion people
Billion Year How long it took
1 1804 All of human history up to 1804
2 1927 123
3 1959 32
4 1974 15
5 1987 13
6 1999 12
7 2012 13

Question 19

Demographic transition over time

Answer 19

The global demographic transition began in the nineteenth century in the now economically developed parts of the world (the North) with declines in death rates. Large reductions in birth rates followed in the early part of the twentieth century. These transitions are now more or less complete.

The demographic transition model illustrates how populations change over time in response to economic and social development. Developing countries often shift through its stages.

For instance, consider India, which has transitioned from Stage 1 (high birth and death rates) to Stage 3 (lower birth and death rates) due to improvements in healthcare and education. Similarly, China moved from Stage 2 to Stage 3 with the implementation of the one-child policy, which reduced birth rates.

In contrast, some African countries like Niger are still in Stage 2, with high birth and death rates. However, as these countries continue to develop economically and invest in healthcare and education, they are expected to transition to Stage 3 over time.

These transitions impact resource allocation, healthcare systems, and social policies, highlighting the importance of understanding demographic shifts in developing countries for sustainable development.

The demographic transition is a model that describes how populations change over time in terms of birth rates, death rates, and overall population growth. It typically involves four stages. In the first stage, birth and death rates are high, resulting in slow population growth. For example, in the 18th century, many European countries were in this stage, with high birth and death rates due to limited healthcare and high fertility rates.

In the second stage, death rates start to decline due to improved healthcare and sanitation, while birth rates remain high. India in the mid-20th century is an example of a country in this stage, experiencing a rapid increase in population.

The third stage sees both birth and death rates declining as societies modernize. The United States in the mid-20th century is an example, with reduced birth and death rates due to increased access to contraception and healthcare.

The fourth stage is characterized by low birth and death rates, resulting in stable or slow population growth. Japan in recent years is an example of a country in this stage, with low fertility rates and an aging population.

Question 20

Life expectancy over time

Answer 20

Era Life expectancy at birth in years
19th-century world average 28.5–32
1900 world average 31–32
1950 world average 45.7–48
2019–2020 world average 72.6–73.2

Life expectancy in developing countries has shown significant improvement over the past few decades. This improvement is largely attributed to advancements in healthcare, access to clean water, sanitation, nutrition, and education. For example, Vietnam. They have made substantial investments in its healthcare infrastructure, expanding access to medical services and improving the quality of care. This includes the construction of new hospitals and clinics in both urban and rural areas.

A developed country Japan, has one of the highest life expectancies in the world. This can be attributed to a combination of factors, including a strong healthcare system, a healthy diet, and a generally active lifestyle. Japan has also made significant progress in reducing smoking rates, which has contributed to longer life expectancy.

Question 21

Fertility rates over time

Answer 21

ertility rates have exhibited significant changes over time, reflecting shifts in societal norms, economic conditions, and healthcare access. For example, during the early 20th century, many Western countries experienced high fertility rates, with the United States averaging around 3 to 4 children per woman. However, following the Second World War and the advent of effective birth control methods, fertility rates declined sharply in the Western world, with some countries, like Japan, experiencing below-replacement-level fertility.

In contrast, some developing countries have seen fluctuations in fertility rates. India, for instance, had a fertility rate of around 6 children per woman in the 1950s, but this rate has steadily decreased due to family planning programs and increased women’s education. On the other hand, countries in sub-Saharan Africa have often maintained relatively high fertility rates, with some exceeding 5 children per woman, influenced by factors such as limited access to contraception and cultural preferences for larger families.

In recent years, there has been a trend toward declining fertility rates even in some traditionally high-fertility countries. For instance, China, known for its one-child policy, has faced challenges associated with an aging population and a gender imbalance, prompting the government to relax its family planning policies.

These examples illustrate the complex interplay of socioeconomic factors, cultural norms, and policy measures that shape fertility rates over time, with profound implications for population dynamics and demographic transitions.

Question 22

Population structure over time

Answer 22

Population structures change over time due to various factors such as birth rates, death rates, and migration patterns. For example, in the mid-20th century, many Western countries experienced a baby boom, leading to a significant increase in their younger population. This demographic shift resulted in a higher proportion of working-age individuals, which contributed to economic growth and development.

However, as these baby boomers age, the population structure in these countries has been evolving. The elderly population has been growing, leading to increased demands on healthcare and pension systems. Japan is a prime example of a rapidly aging population, with a declining birth rate and a large proportion of elderly citizens, which poses challenges for its economy and social welfare.

In contrast, some developing countries like India have youthful population structures due to higher birth rates and lower life expectancies. This demographic advantage can provide opportunities for economic growth if these nations can harness the potential of their young workforce through education and employment opportunities.

Question 23

Dependency ratio over time

Answer 23

Dependency Ratio:
The dependency ratio is a measure of the number of dependents aged zero to 14 and over the age of 65, compared with the total population aged 15 to 64.

The dependency ratio, which measures the number of dependents (typically children and elderly) relative to the working-age population, has been undergoing significant changes over time in many countries. For instance, in developed nations like Japan, the dependency ratio has been steadily increasing due to an aging population. In 1990, Japan’s elderly dependency ratio was 17.6%, and by 2020, it had risen to 33.1%, indicating a growing burden on the working-age population to support retirees.

Conversely, in countries with high birth rates and youthful populations, such as several Sub-Saharan African nations, the dependency ratio has been decreasing. Nigeria, for example, had a youth dependency ratio of 89.5% in 1990, which decreased to 68.9% by 2020, suggesting a potentially advantageous demographic dividend if properly harnessed for economic growth.

These shifts in dependency ratios have profound implications for economic and social policies, as countries with aging populations face challenges in sustaining social welfare systems, while those with youthful populations have an opportunity to capitalize on a burgeoning workforce if they can provide adequate education and employment opportunities. Understanding these trends is crucial for policymakers to plan for the future and ensure the well-being of their populations.