Chapter 2: The World Population Distribution, Density and Growth
Geography - Fundamental of Human Geography • Class 12
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Chapter Analysis
Intermediate12 pages • EnglishQuick Summary
The chapter 'The World Population: Distribution, Density and Growth' discusses the uneven distribution of population across the globe, factors influencing population density, and population growth patterns. It examines geographical, economic, social, and political factors affecting where people live and the impact of these on population distribution. The chapter also explores the demographic transition model and introduces concepts like birth and death rates, natural growth, and migration as components of population change.
Key Topics
- •Population distribution patterns
- •Factors influencing population density
- •Demographic transition model
- •Migration and its types
- •Components of population change
- •Population growth and control measures
Learning Objectives
- ✓Analyze the patterns of population distribution and density globally.
- ✓Identify key factors influencing where populations choose to settle.
- ✓Understand the demographic transition model stages and significance.
- ✓Assess the components leading to changes in population size.
- ✓Recognize various push and pull factors in migration.
- ✓Evaluate strategies for population growth control.
Questions in Chapter
Choose the right answer from the four alternatives given below. Which one of the following continents has the highest growth of population? (a) Africa (c) Asia (b) South America (d) North America
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Choose the right answer from the four alternatives given below. Which one of the following is not an area of sparse population? (a) The Atacama (c) Equatorial region (b) South-east Asia (d) Polar regions
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Choose the right answer from the four alternatives given below. Which one of the following is not a push factor? (a) Water shortage (c) Unemployment (b) Medical/educational facilities (d) Epidemics
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Choose the right answer from the four alternatives given below. Which one of the following is not a fact? (a) Human population increased more than ten times during the past 500 years. (b) Population growth is high in the first stage of demographic transition?
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Answer the following questions in about 30 words: Name three geographical factors that influence the distribution of population.
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There are a number of areas with high population density in the world. Why does this happen?
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What are the three components of population change?
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Distinguish between: Birth rate and death rate.
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Distinguish between: Push factors and pull factors of migration.
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Answer the following questions in about 150 words: Discuss the factors influencing the distribution and density of population in the world.
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Discuss the three stages of demographic transition.
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Additional Practice Questions
Explain the term 'demographic transition' and its significance.
mediumAnswer: The demographic transition theory describes the change a society undergoes from having high birth and death rates to having low birth and death rates, as industrialization and economic development progress. This transition explains the correlation between population growth and economic development, seen in three stages: high fluctuating (high birth and death rates), expanding (falling death rates), and low fluctuating (low birth and death rates).
What are the main causes of high population density in urban areas?
easyAnswer: Urban areas experience high population density primarily due to better job opportunities, educational and healthcare facilities, and advanced infrastructure that attract people from rural areas. The concentration of services and industries in cities leads to rural-urban migration and increases the local population density.
How can governments control population growth effectively?
hardAnswer: Governments can control population growth through measures such as family planning programs, public education campaigns, economic incentives for small families, easy access to contraceptive methods, and policies that promote gender equality and education for women.
Discuss the impact of migration on urban development.
mediumAnswer: Migration significantly impacts urban development by increasing the labor force and contributing to economic growth. However, it can also lead to overpopulation, strain on infrastructure, housing shortages, and social challenges such as unemployment and inequality if not managed properly.
What role do social and cultural factors play in population distribution?
mediumAnswer: Social and cultural factors influence population distribution by affecting individuals' settlement decisions. Areas with religious or cultural significance may attract more people. Similarly, regions with social and political unrest might see people migrating away to more stable locales.