Human Geography Quiz
Quiz about human geography. Practice for real exam.
Questions and Answers
- 1.
Sometimes when a person is standing in front of youand talking to you, you feel the need to back away. You step back and the other person steps forward. You keep jockeying for a comfortable distance to continuethe conversation. This illustrates:
- A.
Conversational space.
- B.
Neighborhood space.
- C.
Sense of place.
- D.
Personal space.
- E.
Personality.
Correct Answer
D. Personal space.Explanation
The scenario described in the question is a common example of personal space. Personal space refers to the physical distance that individuals prefer to keep between themselves and others during social interactions. It varies from person to person and culture to culture, but generally, people feel the need to maintain a certain distance to feel comfortable. In this case, both individuals are adjusting their positions to find a comfortable distance, indicating their awareness and respect for personal space.Rate this question:
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- 2.
The violent and deadly removal of unwanted minorities in nation-states is known as:
- A.
Apartheid.
- B.
Transhumance.
- C.
Ethnic cleansing.
- D.
Ethnographic relocation.
- E.
None of the above.
Correct Answer
C. Ethnic cleansing.Explanation
Ethnic cleansing refers to the violent and deadly removal of unwanted minorities in nation-states. This involves the deliberate and systematic persecution, displacement, and killing of individuals based on their ethnic or religious background. Apartheid refers specifically to the policy of racial segregation and discrimination in South Africa, while transhumance refers to the seasonal movement of livestock in search of pasture. Ethnographic relocation is not a recognized term for this concept. Therefore, the correct answer is ethnic cleansing.Rate this question:
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- 3.
Farm villages are the most important form of settlement in all of the following EXCEPT:
- A.
North America.
- B.
Latin America.
- C.
East Asia.
- D.
South Asia.
- E.
Africa.
Correct Answer
A. North America.Explanation
Farm villages are not the most important form of settlement in North America. Unlike other regions listed, North America has a more diverse range of settlement types, including urban areas, suburbs, and industrial centers, which are more significant than farm villages.Rate this question:
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- 4.
Mormon settlements are typically:
- A.
Loose irregular villages.
- B.
Row villages.
- C.
Dry-point villages.
- D.
Checkerboard villages.
- E.
Hamlets.
Correct Answer
D. Checkerboard villages.Explanation
Mormon settlements are typically checkerboard villages. This means that the land is divided into a grid-like pattern, with alternating squares of farmland and open space. This layout was often used by Mormon settlers in the western United States to efficiently allocate land and resources. The checkerboard pattern allowed for the establishment of small, self-sustaining communities with a mix of agricultural and residential areas. This type of village design promoted a sense of community and cooperation among the settlers.Rate this question:
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- 5.
Which of the following is NOT a condition favoring dispersed settlement?
- A.
Need for defense.
- B.
Colonization by individual families.
- C.
Private enterprise.
- D.
Unit-block farm.
- E.
Readily available water.
Correct Answer
A. Need for defense.Explanation
The need for defense is not a condition favoring dispersed settlement because in dispersed settlements, the population is spread out over a wide area, making it difficult to defend against potential threats. In contrast, concentrated settlements provide better opportunities for defense as the population is more closely grouped together, allowing for easier coordination and protection against external attacks.Rate this question:
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- 6.
A major cause of high death rates in poorer countries is:
- A.
AIDS and other contagious diseases.
- B.
Lack of adequate healthcare services.
- C.
Warfare.
- D.
All the above.
- E.
A and b only.
Correct Answer
D. All the above.Explanation
The correct answer is "all the above." This is because high death rates in poorer countries can be attributed to various factors, including AIDS and other contagious diseases, lack of adequate healthcare services, and warfare. These factors contribute to the overall poor health and mortality rates in these countries.Rate this question:
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- 7.
There is a strong correlation in both developed and less-developed countries between lower total fertility rate and:
- A.
AIDS.
- B.
Improved health care.
- C.
Increased education of females.
- D.
Providing clean drinking water.
- E.
All of the above.
Correct Answer
C. Increased education of females.Explanation
The correct answer is increased education of females. This is because studies have shown that as the education level of women increases, they tend to have fewer children. This is due to various factors such as increased knowledge about contraception, better understanding of family planning, and more opportunities for economic empowerment. Additionally, educated women are more likely to prioritize their own health and well-being, which can also contribute to lower fertility rates. Therefore, increased education of females is strongly correlated with lower total fertility rates in both developed and less-developed countries.Rate this question:
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- 8.
Infant mortality rates are:
- A.
Slightly higher for boys than girls.
- B.
Measured in number of deaths per thousand per year.
- C.
A good index of living standards.
- D.
All the above.
- E.
B and c only.
Correct Answer
D. All the above.Explanation
The correct answer is "all the above." Infant mortality rates are slightly higher for boys than girls. They are measured in the number of deaths per thousand per year. Additionally, infant mortality rates are considered a good index of living standards.Rate this question:
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- 9.
The human population of the earth:
- A.
Reached one billion around the year 1800.
- B.
Has changed only slowly throughout human recorded history.
- C.
Is doubling in ever shorter time intervals.
- D.
All the above.
- E.
A and c.
Correct Answer
E. A and c.Explanation
The correct answer is "a and c." This means that the human population of the earth reached one billion around the year 1800 and is doubling in ever shorter time intervals. This suggests that the population growth has been relatively slow throughout human recorded history but has started to accelerate in recent times.Rate this question:
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- 10.
Environmental pull factors that currently influence inter-regional migration in the United states are:
- A.
Mild winters.
- B.
Forested regions with mild winters.
- C.
Coasts and lakes.
- D.
All the above.
- E.
A and c only.
Correct Answer
D. All the above.Explanation
The correct answer is "all the above" because all of the mentioned factors, including mild winters, forested regions with mild winters, and coasts and lakes, are environmental pull factors that currently influence inter-regional migration in the United States. These factors attract people to certain regions due to the pleasant climate and natural beauty they offer.Rate this question:
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- 11.
China, the world’s most populous country, contains more than _____ of the world’s population.
- A.
Half, 50%
- B.
One-third, 33%
- C.
One-quarter, 25%
- D.
One-fifth, 20%
- E.
One-eighth, 12%
Correct Answer
D. One-fifth, 20%Explanation
China, with its massive population, comprises approximately one-fifth or 20% of the world's total population. This means that out of every five people in the world, one of them is from China.Rate this question:
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- 12.
The population of a country divided by its area determines its:
- A.
Birth/death rate
- B.
Rate of natural increase
- C.
Population density
- D.
Population doubling time
- E.
Gravity factor
Correct Answer
C. Population densityExplanation
The population of a country divided by its area determines its population density. Population density is a measure of how crowded or densely populated an area is. It is calculated by dividing the total population of a country by its land area. This measure helps us understand the concentration of people in a given area and can provide insights into the level of resources and infrastructure needed to support the population.Rate this question:
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- 13.
Which of these is not an influence on the population size of a country?
- A.
Population density
- B.
Births
- C.
Deaths
- D.
Immigration
- E.
Emigration
Correct Answer
A. Population densityExplanation
Population density refers to the number of individuals living in a given area. It is a measure of how crowded or sparse a population is in a specific region. While population density can affect the quality of life and availability of resources, it is not a direct influence on the population size of a country. Births, deaths, immigration, and emigration are the primary factors that directly impact the population size of a country.Rate this question:
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- 14.
Countries with a high rate of natural increase will also have a:
- A.
Long doubling time.
- B.
Negative population growth.
- C.
Short doubling time.
- D.
Inversed, pyramid-shaped population pyramid.
- E.
All of the above.
Correct Answer
C. Short doubling time.Explanation
Countries with a high rate of natural increase, which refers to the birth rate exceeding the death rate, will have a short doubling time. Doubling time is the time it takes for a population to double in size. If a country has a high rate of natural increase, it means that the population is growing rapidly, and therefore, the doubling time will be shorter. This is because the higher the birth rate, the faster the population will double in size. Therefore, the correct answer is short doubling time.Rate this question:
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- 15.
The stage of the demographic transition in which there is declining fertility, but, as a result of already low mortality, continuing significant growth is:
- A.
One
- B.
Two
- C.
Three
- D.
Four
- E.
Five
Correct Answer
C. ThreeExplanation
Stage three of the demographic transition is characterized by declining fertility rates and already low mortality rates. This combination leads to a significant population growth. In this stage, improvements in healthcare and living conditions result in lower death rates, while cultural and economic factors lead to a decrease in birth rates. As a result, the population continues to grow, albeit at a slower pace than in previous stages.Rate this question:
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- 16.
The population explosion of the past ____ years has increased the world's population from under 1 billion to more than 6 billion.
- A.
10
- B.
25
- C.
50
- D.
100
- E.
500
Correct Answer
B. 25Explanation
The population explosion of the past 25 years has increased the world's population from under 1 billion to more than 6 billion.Rate this question:
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- 17.
An age-sex pyramid shows:
- A.
The spatial distribution of a population.
- B.
The migration patterns within a country.
- C.
The population structure of a country.
- D.
The fertility rate among women in the 20-30 age group.
- E.
The life expectancy of males and females at birth.
Correct Answer
C. The population structure of a country.Explanation
An age-sex pyramid is a graphical representation that displays the distribution of a population by age and sex. It shows the number or percentage of males and females in different age groups. This information provides insights into the population structure of a country, such as the proportion of young and old people, the dependency ratio, and potential workforce size. It does not directly indicate the spatial distribution, migration patterns, fertility rate, or life expectancy, which are separate factors.Rate this question:
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- 18.
The world's population is currently growing by about 90 million per year; the bulk of this growth is occurring in:
- A.
Countries north of the equator.
- B.
Countries south of the equator.
- C.
Countries with larger area.
- D.
Poorer countries.
- E.
Richer countries.
Correct Answer
D. Poorer countries.Explanation
The correct answer is poorer countries. This is because poorer countries tend to have higher birth rates and lower access to contraception and family planning services, leading to faster population growth. In contrast, richer countries generally have lower birth rates and better access to healthcare and family planning, resulting in slower population growth.Rate this question:
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- 19.
China once encouraged expansive population policies, but now encourages restrictive population policies
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
China's population policies have indeed shifted from being expansive to restrictive. In the past, China implemented policies such as the "One Child Policy" to control population growth and address concerns about overpopulation. However, in recent years, China has recognized the negative consequences of a rapidly aging population and a shrinking workforce. As a result, the government has shifted its focus towards encouraging couples to have more children through measures like the "Two Child Policy" and providing incentives to promote population growth. Therefore, the statement is true.Rate this question:
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- 20.
A central geographic fact is that people are evenly distributed over the earth.
- A.
T
- B.
F
Correct Answer
B. FExplanation
The given statement is false. People are not evenly distributed over the earth. Population density varies greatly across different regions and countries. Some areas, such as cities, have a high population density, while others, such as remote or inhospitable regions, have a very low population density. Factors such as climate, resources, infrastructure, and cultural and political factors contribute to the uneven distribution of people on Earth.Rate this question:
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- 21.
Geodemographers confine their attention to population density because that is the only spatial aspect of population.
- A.
T
- B.
F
Correct Answer
B. FExplanation
Geodemographers do not confine their attention solely to population density. They also consider other spatial aspects of population such as distribution, composition, and movement. By analyzing these factors, geodemographers gain insights into the spatial patterns and characteristics of populations, which can be useful for various purposes such as urban planning, market research, and resource allocation.Rate this question:
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- 22.
Close to one-fifth of the world’s population lives in China.
- A.
T
- B.
F
Correct Answer
A. TExplanation
China has the largest population in the world, with approximately 1.4 billion people. Close to one-fifth of the world's population refers to around 20% of the global population, which is roughly the number of people living in China. Therefore, the statement is true.Rate this question:
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- 23.
A region is not considered to be in a density category of “thickly populated” until it has at least 250 persons per square mile (100 per square kilometer).
- A.
T
- B.
F
Correct Answer
A. TExplanation
This statement is true. A region is not classified as "thickly populated" until it has a minimum density of 250 persons per square mile or 100 persons per square kilometer. This means that if a region has a population density below these thresholds, it would not be considered densely populated.Rate this question:
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- 24.
The three most important population clusters globally are East Asia, South Asia, and Europe.
- A.
T
- B.
F
Correct Answer
A. TExplanation
The statement is true because East Asia, South Asia, and Europe are indeed the three most important population clusters globally. These regions have the highest population densities and are home to some of the world's most populous countries, such as China and India. They also have significant economic and political influence, making them crucial in global affairs.Rate this question:
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- 25.
Densely populated regions are generally associated with poor living standards
- A.
T
- B.
F
Correct Answer
B. FExplanation
The statement is false. Densely populated regions do not necessarily have poor living standards. Population density alone does not determine living standards. Factors such as economic development, access to resources, infrastructure, and government policies play a significant role in determining living standards. There can be densely populated regions with high living standards and vice versa.Rate this question:
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- 26.
Birth and death rates are expressed in the number of occurrences per 100 people in a given year.
- A.
T
- B.
F
Correct Answer
B. FExplanation
The statement is false. Birth and death rates are typically expressed as the number of occurrences per 1,000 people in a given year, not per 100 people.Rate this question:
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- 27.
Declining Total Fertility Rates are an indicator of a future decrease in population
- A.
T
- B.
F
Correct Answer
A. TExplanation
Declining Total Fertility Rates refer to a decrease in the average number of children born to women in a population. This indicates that women are having fewer children, which ultimately leads to a decrease in population growth. As fewer children are being born, the overall population size will gradually decline over time. Therefore, the statement that declining Total Fertility Rates are an indicator of a future decrease in population is true.Rate this question:
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- 28.
Most people in the developed world die of degenerative diseases related to old age
- A.
T
- B.
F
Correct Answer
A. TExplanation
It is true that most people in the developed world die of degenerative diseases related to old age. This is because advancements in healthcare and living conditions have led to increased life expectancy, allowing individuals to live long enough to develop age-related diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and Alzheimer's. These diseases are often the leading causes of death in developed countries, surpassing infectious diseases that were more prevalent in the past.Rate this question:
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- 29.
A decline in death rates led to the “population explosion.”
- A.
T
- B.
F
Correct Answer
A. TExplanation
The statement suggests that the decline in death rates resulted in a significant increase in the population, commonly referred to as the "population explosion." This is because when death rates decrease, more individuals are able to survive and reproduce, leading to a higher birth rate and overall population growth.Rate this question:
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- 30.
Thomas Malthus said that technological innovation would ensure adequate food supply and populations could continue to grow with no negative consequences.
- A.
T
- B.
F
Correct Answer
B. FExplanation
The statement is false. Thomas Malthus actually argued the opposite. He believed that population growth would eventually outstrip the ability of technological innovation to provide enough food, leading to negative consequences such as famine and poverty.Rate this question:
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- 31.
Infanticide has never been a principal method of natality control in any culture.
- A.
T
- B.
F
Correct Answer
B. FExplanation
The statement suggests that infanticide has never been a primary method of controlling birth rates in any culture. However, historical evidence shows that infanticide has been practiced in various cultures as a means of controlling population growth. Therefore, the statement is false.Rate this question:
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- 32.
In the Demographic Transition Model, population explosion occurs in stages two and three.
- A.
T
- B.
F
Correct Answer
A. TExplanation
The Demographic Transition Model is a theory that explains the historical shift in population growth patterns as countries develop. Stage two of the model is characterized by high birth rates and declining death rates, resulting in rapid population growth. Stage three is marked by declining birth rates and further declining death rates, but the population still continues to grow, albeit at a slower pace. Therefore, it is correct to say that population explosion occurs in stages two and three of the Demographic Transition Model.Rate this question:
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- 33.
Rural populations in the United States are usually older than urban populations.
- A.
T
- B.
F
Correct Answer
A. TExplanation
Rural populations in the United States are usually older than urban populations because many young people tend to move to urban areas in search of better job opportunities, education, and access to amenities. This trend leaves behind a higher proportion of older individuals in rural areas, resulting in an overall older population. Additionally, rural areas often lack the healthcare infrastructure and services available in urban areas, which can contribute to an older population as well.Rate this question:
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- 34.
Recently settled areas typically have more males than females.
- A.
T
- B.
F
Correct Answer
A. TExplanation
This statement is generally true in many settled areas due to various factors. Historically, men have often been the first to migrate to new areas in search of opportunities, leading to a higher male population initially. Additionally, in some cultures, male offspring are preferred, leading to higher birth rates for males in these areas. However, it's important to note that this statement may not apply universally and can vary depending on the specific region and cultural norms.Rate this question:
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- 35.
A high population density is a good indicator of poverty.
- A.
T
- B.
F
Correct Answer
B. FExplanation
The statement is false because a high population density does not necessarily indicate poverty. Population density refers to the number of people living in a given area, while poverty is a measure of the economic well-being of individuals or households. It is possible for areas with high population density to have high levels of poverty, but it is also possible for areas with low population density to have high poverty rates. Therefore, population density alone cannot be used as a reliable indicator of poverty.Rate this question:
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- 36.
Because gender ratios result in an even balance between males and females, no country has a profound gender imbalance.
- A.
T
- B.
F
Correct Answer
B. FExplanation
The statement is false because gender ratios can vary significantly between countries, leading to gender imbalances. Some countries may have a higher proportion of males, while others may have a higher proportion of females. These imbalances can be caused by various factors such as cultural preferences, migration patterns, or gender-based discrimination. Therefore, it is incorrect to say that no country has a profound gender imbalance.Rate this question:
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- 37.
A population pyramid with a broad base indicates a young population.
- A.
T
- B.
F
Correct Answer
A. TExplanation
A population pyramid with a broad base indicates a young population because a broad base represents a larger number of individuals in the younger age groups. This suggests that there is a higher birth rate and a lower mortality rate, resulting in a larger proportion of the population being young. As the age groups progress towards older ages, the pyramid narrows, indicating a smaller number of individuals in the older age groups. Therefore, a broad base in a population pyramid is characteristic of a young population.Rate this question:
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- 38.
Population stability is implied by a population pyramid with a narrow base.
- A.
T
- B.
F
Correct Answer
A. TExplanation
A population pyramid with a narrow base suggests that there are fewer young individuals in the population. This indicates a lower birth rate and potentially a declining population. In such a scenario, the population is more likely to be stable as there is a balance between the number of births and deaths. A wider base, on the other hand, would indicate a higher birth rate and a growing population, which is not considered stable. Therefore, the statement is true.Rate this question:
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- 39.
The most basic aspect of population migration is cultural, hierarchical diffusion.
- A.
T
- B.
F
Correct Answer
B. FExplanation
The statement is false because the most basic aspect of population migration is not cultural, hierarchical diffusion. Population migration refers to the movement of people from one place to another, and it can be influenced by various factors such as economic opportunities, political instability, environmental conditions, and social factors. Cultural, hierarchical diffusion refers to the spread of cultural traits or ideas from one group or society to another, which may or may not be a factor in population migration.Rate this question:
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- 40.
The most common type of migration is voluntary.
- A.
T
- B.
F
Correct Answer
A. TExplanation
The explanation for the given correct answer is that voluntary migration refers to the movement of people who choose to relocate for various reasons such as better job opportunities, improved living conditions, or personal preferences. This type of migration is more common compared to forced migration, which involves people being displaced due to conflicts, natural disasters, or political reasons.Rate this question:
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- 41.
Refugees are involuntary migrants.
- A.
T
- B.
F
Correct Answer
A. TExplanation
The statement is true because refugees are individuals who are forced to leave their home country due to persecution, war, or violence. Unlike voluntary migrants who choose to move to another country for various reasons, refugees have no choice but to flee their homes in order to seek safety and protection. They are considered involuntary migrants because their displacement is not by choice but rather a result of circumstances beyond their control.Rate this question:
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- 42.
If a population has developed a successful adaptive strategy in a new land, it will avoid demographic catastrophe
- A.
T
- B.
F
Correct Answer
A. TExplanation
If a population has developed a successful adaptive strategy in a new land, it means that they have found ways to effectively survive and thrive in their new environment. This implies that they have overcome any potential challenges or threats that could lead to a demographic catastrophe, such as lack of resources or inability to reproduce. Therefore, the statement is true.Rate this question:
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- 43.
Sunshine can be a pull factor in migration.
- A.
T
- B.
F
Correct Answer
A. TExplanation
Sunshine can be a pull factor in migration because it is often associated with warmer climates and better living conditions. People may be attracted to areas with more sunshine because it can improve their mood, provide opportunities for outdoor activities, and offer a better quality of life overall. Additionally, sunshine is essential for agricultural activities, making it an important factor for those who rely on farming or gardening for their livelihood.Rate this question:
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- 44.
A person born in the United States has the same effect on the global environment as one born in India or China because all people have the same basic needs.
- A.
T
- B.
F
Correct Answer
B. FExplanation
This statement is false. While all people have the same basic needs, the impact on the global environment can vary greatly depending on the country of birth. The United States has a much higher carbon footprint per capita compared to India or China due to higher consumption levels and industrialization. Therefore, a person born in the United States generally has a larger effect on the global environment compared to someone born in India or China.Rate this question:
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- 45.
Food preferences play no role in population density or migration.
- A.
T
- B.
F
Correct Answer
B. FExplanation
Food preferences do play a role in population density and migration. Different populations have different food preferences, and this can influence where they choose to live and migrate to. For example, certain regions may have abundant food resources that attract populations, while others may lack suitable food sources and therefore have lower population densities. Additionally, changes in food availability or quality can also drive migration patterns as populations seek out better food options. Therefore, the statement that food preferences play no role in population density or migration is false.Rate this question:
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- 46.
Street villages are common in Eastern Europe.
- A.
T
- B.
F
Correct Answer
A. TExplanation
Street villages are common in Eastern Europe because in this region, it is common for houses and buildings to be situated along the main street of a village or town. This layout creates a sense of community and convenience, as residents have easy access to shops, services, and social interactions. Additionally, street villages often have a distinct architectural style, with houses facing the street and often featuring colorful facades and decorative details. This characteristic can be observed in many countries in Eastern Europe, such as Romania, Bulgaria, and Ukraine.Rate this question:
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- 47.
Prior to the Spanish Conquest, wet-point villages characterized Mayan settlement.
- A.
T
- B.
F
Correct Answer
A. TExplanation
Prior to the Spanish Conquest, Mayan settlement was characterized by the presence of wet-point villages.Rate this question:
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- 48.
The single most common variable by which different cultural groups are identified and by which groups assert their unique identity is
- A.
Religion.
- B.
Artifacts.
- C.
Material culture.
- D.
Politics.
- E.
Language.
Correct Answer
E. Language.Explanation
Language is the single most common variable by which different cultural groups are identified and assert their unique identity. Language is a fundamental aspect of culture and plays a crucial role in shaping social interactions, communication, and the transmission of cultural values and traditions. It is through language that individuals express their thoughts, beliefs, and cultural practices, establishing a sense of belonging and identity within their respective cultural groups. While religion, artifacts, material culture, and politics also contribute to cultural identity, language serves as the primary means of communication and cultural expression, making it the most prevalent variable in identifying different cultural groups.Rate this question:
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- 49.
Languages are of interest to geographers because they
- A.
Vary spatially.
- B.
Tend to form homogeneous groupings.
- C.
Facilitate cultural diffusion.
- D.
Reinforce sense of place.
- E.
All of the above.
Correct Answer
E. All of the above.Explanation
Languages are of interest to geographers because they vary spatially, meaning that different languages are spoken in different regions. They also tend to form homogeneous groupings, where certain languages are dominant within a particular area. Additionally, languages facilitate cultural diffusion, as they are a means of communication and can spread cultural ideas and practices. Lastly, languages reinforce a sense of place, as they are often tied to specific regions and can contribute to a community's identity. Therefore, all of these reasons make languages an important aspect of study for geographers.Rate this question:
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