AP Human Geography - Unit 2: Population and Migration

Overview

• World population nearing 8 billion.
• Question: Is the world overpopulated?
• Overpopulation is complex; populations are not evenly distributed.

Population Distribution

• Four major regions with over two-thirds of the world’s population:
  • South Asia: India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka.
  • East Asia: China, Japan, Korean Peninsula.
  • Southeast Asia: Thailand, Philippines, Vietnam.
  • Europe: Closer to natural resources due to Industrial Revolution.
• Populations are dispersed differently, making overpopulation judgments complicated.

Factors Influencing Population Settlements

• People settle near:
  • Rivers, oceans (fresh water, trade opportunities).
  • Fertile soil (agriculture).
• Areas with:
  • Economic opportunities.
  • Political stability.
  • Cultural preferences.
  • Historical events.
• Less desirable areas: too dry, wet, cold, or hot.

Environmental Possibilism

• Technological advancements allow settlements in previously inhospitable areas.

Population Density vs. Distribution

• Population Density: Number of people in an area.
• Population Distribution: Spread of people across an area.

Types of Population Density

• Arithmetic Density:
  • Total population divided by total land area.
  • High number = more people per unit of land.
• Physiological Density:
  • Total population divided by arable land.
  • Higher number = more stress on land for food production.
• Agricultural Density:
  • Number of farmers divided by arable land.
  • Indicates technological advancement in agriculture.

Comparison of Densities

• Comparing countries’ densities provides insights into societal structure.
• Example:
  • Country A has lower arithmetic and physiological density but higher agricultural density than Country B.
  • Indicates Country A has more arable land but less efficient agricultural practices.

Conclusion

• Understanding different densities enhances insights into geographic areas.
• More practice available in the ultimate review packet.
• Review questions and answers provided for self-assessment.

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