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Explain how any two of the following influence population densities throughout the world: - Soils - Relief (shape of the land surface) - Mineral Wealth - Junior Cycle Geography - Question A - 2005
Question A
Explain how any two of the following influence population densities throughout the world: - Soils - Relief (shape of the land surface) - Mineral Wealth
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Explain how any two of the following influence population densities throughout the world: - Soils - Relief (shape of the land surface) - Mineral Wealth - Junior Cycle Geography - Question A - 2005
Step 1
Soils
Answer
Fertile soils tend to attract higher concentrations of population. For example, productive alluvial soils of Southeast Asia—such as the Ganges in India and the Mekong Delta in Vietnam—are extensively farmed, leading to dense populations in these regions. In contrast, areas with unproductive soils, like the rainforests of the Amazon or regions in Mali Central Africa, tend to be sparsely populated due to challenges in agriculture and habitation.
Step 2
Relief (shape of the land surface)
Answer
High altitudes and steep slopes often lead to underpopulation in mountainous areas. For every 150 meters of elevation gain, temperatures can drop by approximately 1°C, making these areas less hospitable for human habitation. Mountain summits, such as those found in the Alps or the Himalayas, are typically too cold for sustained human activity. Additionally, steep slopes lack sufficient soil and present difficult terrain for constructing settlements or roads.