Advanced Placement (AP) Human Geography Practice Exam

What does relative location refer to?

1. The physical coordinates of a place

2. The location of a place in relation to other places

3. The exact altitude of a location

4. The geographic area a location occupies

The correct answer is: The location of a place in relation to other places

Relative location refers to the position of a place in relation to other places. This concept involves understanding how a location is situated concerning its surroundings and the connections it has with other areas. For instance, one might describe a city's relative location by stating it is south of another city or near a major river. This perspective emphasizes the significance of context and relationships in geography, allowing us to understand patterns of movement, trade, and social interactions. In contrast to this, pinpointing the exact physical coordinates of a place pertains to absolute location, which provides a specific point on the map using latitude and longitude. The exact altitude of a location, while crucial for various geographic analyses, does not address the relational aspect that is fundamental to relative location. Finally, defining the geographic area a location occupies does not capture the essence of relative location, as it focuses more on spatial dimensions rather than the relationships with nearby features or places. Overall, relative location is a vital concept that helps in understanding geographical dynamics and human interactions within space.