Advanced Placement (AP) Human Geography Practice Exam

What does the term 'physiologic density' refer to?

1. The total number of inhabitants in a city

2. The number of persons per unit of agricultural land

3. The measurement of urban vs. rural populations

4. The density of a population across a continent

The correct answer is: The number of persons per unit of agricultural land

Physiologic density specifically refers to the number of people per unit of arable land, which is crucial for understanding the relationship between a population and its agricultural capacity. By focusing on arable land, physiologic density provides insights into how effectively a population can be sustained by the land available for farming. This measurement is particularly significant in regions where agricultural practices are essential for supporting the population, allowing geographers and planners to assess food security, land use, and the potential pressures on agricultural resources. While urban density measures the concentration of people in cities, physiologic density emphasizes agricultural land, highlighting how population pressures can impact food production and land management. This concept is critical when discussing regions with varying levels of agricultural productivity and differing population pressures. It fosters a deeper understanding of agricultural systems and sustainability in relation to human populations.