2.7 - Rural Urban Continuum

Question 1

What percentage of the UK population lives in urban areas?

Answer 1

80% of the UK population lives in urban areas (i.e. over 10,000 people).

Question 2

What percentage of the UK land surface is urban?

Answer 2

Only 10% of the UK land surface is urban.

Question 3

What term describes different levels of rurality based on accessibility and connection with urban areas?

Answer 3

The rural-urban continuum.

Question 4

Name two key factors influencing rural demographics.

Answer 4

Population density and population structure.

Question 5

How does historical development influence demographic characteristics?

Answer 5

Past employment opportunities, such as coal mining, have shaped population distribution and structure.

Question 6

What are two types of rural areas based on accessibility?

Answer 6

Accessible rural and inaccessible rural.

Question 7

Name an example of an accessible rural area in Northern Ireland.

Answer 7

Causeway Coast and Glens.

Question 8

Why are rural and urban areas interdependent?

Answer 8

Rural areas supply resources and recreation, while urban areas provide employment and services.

Question 9

How far is Belfast from Mid and East Antrim by car?

Answer 9

Approximately 1 hour via the M2 and A26.

Question 10

What role does planning play in rural demographics?

Answer 10

Policies like greenbelts and development restrictions affect population distribution.

Question 11

What are the characteristics of rural areas?

Answer 11

Low population densities, open land, small settlements.

Question 12

What is the primary factor that differentiates accessible and inaccessible rural areas?

Answer 12

Proximity to urban centres and transport links.

Question 13

How does accessibility impact demographic trends in rural areas?

Answer 13

Higher accessibility leads to more commuting, services, and population growth.

Question 14

Name a major transport route connecting rural areas to Belfast.

Answer 14

The M2 motorway.

Question 15

What is the definition of a rural area?

Answer 15

An area with low population density, open spaces, and small settlements.

Question 16

What are the key demographic characteristics of rural areas?

Answer 16

Lower population density, ageing population, and lower ethnic diversity.

Question 17

What are the main differences between urban and rural areas?

Answer 17

Urban areas have higher population densities, better infrastructure, and diverse economies, while rural areas have fewer services and primary industries.

Question 18

What factors contribute to the rural-urban continuum?

Answer 18

Accessibility, economic opportunities, planning policies, and infrastructure development.

Question 19

Define the term ‘inaccessible rural’ with an example.

Answer 19

Areas far from urban centres with limited transport links, such as parts of Mid and East Antrim.

Question 20

What are the demographic challenges faced by rural areas?

Answer 20

Ageing populations, outmigration of young people, and limited employment opportunities.

Question 21

What employment opportunities are available in rural areas?

Answer 21

Agriculture, forestry, tourism, and small-scale manufacturing.

Question 22

Why is rurality important in geographical studies?

Answer 22

It helps understand population distribution, service provision, and economic sustainability.

Question 23

What percentage of rural land is used for agriculture?

Answer 23

Around 70% of rural land is used for farming purposes.

Question 24

Name three rural settlements mentioned in the presentation.

Answer 24

Kilrea, Upperlands, and Swatragh.

Question 25

What is an example of an accessible rural area in Northern Ireland?

Answer 25

Causeway Coast and Glens.

Question 26

How long does it take to travel from Belfast to Causeway Coast and Glens?

Answer 26

Approximately 1 hour via M2 and A26.

Question 27

Which motorways connect rural areas to Belfast?

Answer 27

M2 and A26.

Question 28

How do planning policies affect rural demographics?

Answer 28

They influence housing, economic development, and population distribution.

Question 29

What historical factors have shaped rural population structures?

Answer 29

Industrial closures, agricultural mechanisation, and economic shifts.

Question 30

How do physical factors impact rural population density?

Answer 30

Topography, climate, and natural resources availability.

Question 31

What economic opportunities exist in rural areas?

Answer 31

Agriculture, tourism, renewable energy, and small businesses.

Question 32

How does accessibility impact rural migration patterns?

Answer 32

Better accessibility leads to population growth and economic development.

Question 33

What is the impact of an ageing population on rural areas?

Answer 33

Increased demand for healthcare and reduced workforce availability.

Question 34

How do social factors influence rural-urban migration?

Answer 34

Education, employment opportunities, and lifestyle preferences.

Question 35

How does tourism influence rural demographic structures?

Answer 35

It creates jobs, attracts younger populations, and stimulates local economies.

Question 36

Why are some rural areas more densely populated than others?

Answer 36

Due to proximity to urban centres, infrastructure, and historical development.

Question 37

How do rural and urban areas rely on each other?

Answer 37

Rural areas provide food and resources, while urban areas provide services and markets.

Question 38

What services are typically provided in urban areas that benefit rural populations?

Answer 38

Healthcare, education, and retail.

Question 39

How does rural produce contribute to urban economies?

Answer 39

Through food supply, raw materials, and tourism.

Question 40

What challenges do rural areas face in accessing urban services?

Answer 40

Distance, transport costs, and limited availability of specialised services.

Question 41

How does urban sprawl affect rural communities?

Answer 41

It leads to loss of green space, increased demand for services, and cultural changes.

Question 42

What are the barriers to improving rural transport links?

Answer 42

High costs, low demand, and environmental concerns.