Population Distribution Flashcards
What is meant by the term ‘carrying capacity’?
the maximum number of people that a place can support, given the availability of food, water and resources
What is population distribution?
The spread of a population
What are 5 physical factors that impact where people are found?
- soil
- climate (type and change)
- hazards
- resources
- topography
How does climate impact populations?
- climate for growing crops
- water availability
- tropical diseases
How does soil impact populations?
- soil water content and quality impacts agriculture
How do hazards impact populations?
- dangerous, some people may leave
- potential for energy production and fertile soil
How do natural resources impact populations?
- oil/fossil fuels used for energy
- water availability for agriculture and sanitation
- wood and other resources needed for settlement growth
How much rain does the North of Niger receive?
200mm
How much rain does the South of Niger receive?
600mm
Describe the population distribution in Niger…
Larger population density in the South and far more sparsely populated in the North
What are 2 physical factors causing the population distribution in Niger?
- lack of water in the North (no crops/sanitation)
- high levels of droughts in the North -> poor soil quality?
What are 2 human factors causing the population distribution in Niger?
- lack of infrastructure -> no food aid
- lack of investment in irrigation systems (however wouldn’t be needed as much if there was rainfall)
- culturally want larger families
What are 2 human factors causing the population distribution in China?
- access to coast -> industry and opportunities
- bigger cities attracting more people
What are 2 physical factors causing the population distribution in China?
- west has little rainfall and more arid conditions
- west has mountains and deserts
