Section A - The Global Pattern of Urban Change

Question 1

Give 3 pieces of evidence of the changes in the world’s urban population.

Answer 1

In 1975 there were 4 megacities, today there are over 20 megacities
By 2030 60% of the world’s population will live in cities.
By 2050 70% of the world’s population will live in cities

Question 2

How do rates of urbanisation vary around the world?

Answer 2

In LICs and NEEs a majority of the population lives in rural still so the rate of rural to urban migration is high compared to HICs as most of their population already live in cities. Also LICs and NEEs tend to have a young population leading to higher rates of natural increase compared to HICs as their population is ageing.

Question 3

What two factors affect population growth locally?

Answer 3

Birth and Death rates could lead to either Natural Increase or Natural Decrease.

Question 4

What four factors affect urbanisation rates?

Answer 4

Migration- Rural-urban migration is the main driver of urbanisation. Most migrants are young.
Natural Increase- Young population in many cities lead to higher rates of natural increase. Also, cities have better healthcare than rural areas so death rates are lower as life expectancy is higher
Location- Cities thrive along rivers or coasts or any other transport routes as trade can thrive
Economic Development- Cities attract businesses thus promoting economic growth as it creates jobs that attract more people.