Factors Affecting Distribution of Population
The section highlights that human populations are not evenly dispersed around the Earth’s surface, with certain areas being densely populated while others remain sparsely inhabited. Geographical factors such as topography, climate, soil fertility, availability of water, and natural resources like minerals play significant roles in determining where populations thrive.
Key Geographical Factors:
- Topography: People tend to favor living in plains suitable for farming and manufacturing rather than in mountainous or plateau regions, leading to higher population densities in regions like the Ganga plains.
- Climate: Extreme weather conditions like polar cold or desert heat drive people away, leading to lower population rates in such areas.
- Soil Fertility: Fertile lands, such as those found in major river valleys, support agriculture and attract settlement.
- Water Availability: Proximity to freshwater sources often leads to higher population concentrations. River valleys typically support larger populations compared to arid regions.
- Resource Availability: Areas abundant in minerals and natural resources attract populations due to employment opportunities.
Social, Cultural, and Economic Factors:
- Social Aspects: Communities with better health and education facilities tend to attract more populations.
- Cultural Significance: Places of religious or cultural importance draw people, affecting their distribution.
- Economic Opportunities: Industrial cities create job opportunities, leading to increased migration and higher population density in areas like Mumbai and Osaka.
In summary, the interplay of these diverse factors determines global population distribution, shaping demographic patterns.