Population distribution refers to the pattern or arrangement of people across a particular area, which can vary dramatically between regions and countries. Understanding population distribution helps in identifying patterns of human settlement, resource use, and development, which is strongly related to HL unit on Human Development and Diversity.
The population density refers to the number of people living per unit of area, typically measured per square kilometer or mile.
Population distribution is influenced by a combination of physical and human factors as well as rural-urban migration.
Physical – Climate, topography, resources
Climate
Climate plays a pivotal role in shaping population distribution.
Harsh climates like deserts, extreme cold, or high altitudes generally have lower population densities due to the difficulty of farming, limited resources, and harsh living conditions.
Ie. The Sahara Desert, has a sparse population due to extreme heat and lack of water. In contrast, temperate zones with moderate climates, such as parts of Western Europe, tend to have higher population densities.
Land Topography
Flat, arable land encourages higher population densities.
Ie. Ganges River Plain in India is one of the most densely populated areas in the world due to its fertile land and favorable topography for farming. Conversely, Himalayan regions, with their steep slopes and rugged terrain, see less human habitation.
Access to Resources
Natural resources like water, fertile soil, and minerals heavily influence where people settle. Areas with abundant resources typically support larger populations.
Ie. Nile River Valley in Egypt has supported civilizations for thousands of years because of its access to water, fertile soil, and a relatively mild climate.
Then, there are human factors, which are are essentially the systems we create in order to shape the circumstances in which we live to be more attractive or appealing. They include better job opportunities and better quality of life.
Economic Opportunities (Jobs)
People tend to live in areas where there are employment opportunities. Urban areas with concentrated industries and services attract larger populations due to job availability.
Ie. New York City and London have high population densities because they are financial hubs, offering more options, compared to rural areas with fewer job prospects.
Quality of Life and Standard of Living
Areas offering a higher quality of life, including access to better education, healthcare, and housing, typically experience more people moving there.
Countries or cities with political stability and economic growth tend to attract migrants looking for better opportunities.
Ie. countries like Canada and Australia have become popular destinations for migrants due to their strong economies, high living standards, and accessible, quality healthcare systems.
Rural to Urban migration is also a key driver of population distribution.
Rural to urban migration is a significant phenomenon in many parts of the world, driven by the search for better employment opportunities, education, healthcare, and improved living conditions. As cities offer more economic prospects and modern amenities, they attract people from rural areas where access to these opportunities is limited.
However, rural-to-urban migration can also lead to problems, such as overcrowding, housing shortages, and strain on resources in cities, like when “rat” migrants in Beijing got caught in a fire outbreak and later evicted…
Migration (en-massed and uncontrolled) can also sprout informal settlements or slums, as seen in cities all over the world, from Beijing to Nairobi and also São Paulo and Manila.
Full Population Revision Pack available