Advanced Placement (AP) Human Geography Practice Exam

What is defined as a primary economic activity?

1. Manufacturing products

2. Service-based industries

3. Activities that rely on extracting resources from the ground

4. Technological innovations

The correct answer is: Activities that rely on extracting resources from the ground

The definition of primary economic activity encompasses activities that directly involve the extraction and harvesting of natural resources from the environment. This category includes agriculture, fishing, forestry, and mining, where individuals or businesses obtain raw materials that are essential for further production or consumption. Primary activities play a crucial role in the economy, particularly in regions where natural resources are abundant. In contrast, manufacturing products falls under secondary economic activities, where raw materials are transformed into finished goods. Service-based industries represent tertiary activities, focusing on providing services rather than goods, such as healthcare, education, and retail. Technological innovations are associated with advancements that can enhance efficiency and productivity across all sectors but do not fall under the primary economic activities category. Understanding these distinctions is vital for grasping the structure of economic activities within human geography.