Lecture Notes: Density and Land Use Patterns

Introduction

• Presenter: Mr. Sin
• Topic: Understanding density and land use patterns in urban areas.

Key Concepts

Bid Rent Theory

• Definition: Explains the variation in land prices depending on the distance from the Central Business District (CBD).
• Principle:
  • Closer to CBD: Higher land prices due to higher demand and limited space.
  • Farther from CBD: Lower land prices due to more available space and less demand.
• Impact: Influences the density gradient of cities.

High-Density Areas

• Characteristics:
  • Skyscrapers and buildings grow upward due to limited space.
  • Mixed-use buildings: Retail/stores at ground level, residential above.
  • Underground parking lots.
• Lifestyle:
  • More reliance on public transportation.
  • Proximity to goods and services.
  • Potential for vibrant communities with social and economic opportunities.
• Challenges:
  • Poor urban planning and lack of transportation can lead to food deserts and limited opportunities.

Medium-Density Areas

• Characteristics:
  • Transition from high-rise to low-rise apartments.
  • Introduction of multi-family and single-family homes with small yards.
  • More suburban feel.
• Proximity: Close to high-density areas, maintaining some urban characteristics.
• Residential Diversity: Includes townhomes, duplexes, triplexes, and single-family homes.

Low-Density Areas

• Characteristics:
  • Prominence of single-family homes and few low-rise apartments.
  • Larger lot sizes, more green spaces, and horizontal building expansion.
  • Larger roadways and parking spaces.
• Lifestyle:
  • Increased commute times.
  • Greater reliance on personal vehicles for transportation.
  • Limited public transportation.

Global Variations

• United States: Common to have urban skyscrapers.
• European Cities:
  • Height restrictions on buildings.
  • More public transportation and public spaces for community interaction.

Impact of Technological Advances

• Transportation Developments: Enable people to live farther from CBD while accessing necessary goods and services.
• Shift in Land Use:
  • Movement towards edge cities and suburbs.
  • Businesses relocating to follow consumers to lower-density areas.
  • Urban sprawl results from expanding transportation systems and urban areas.

Conclusion

• Future Trends: Continued expansion and urban sprawl will change city density and layout.
• Call to Action: Practice with questions provided and explore further resources for AP Human Geography.

Additional Resources

• Mr. Sin's Ultimate Review Packet: Further assistance with AP Human Geography.
• Engagement: Consider subscribing to Mr. Sin’s channel for more educational content.