Advanced Placement (AP) Human Geography Practice Exam

What phenomenon does suburbanization describe?

1. The movement of people from rural areas to cities

2. The shift of populations from urban core areas to outer city edges

3. The increase of population density in urban areas

4. The decline of city centers due to economic changes

The correct answer is: The shift of populations from urban core areas to outer city edges

Suburbanization is characterized by the shift of populations from urban core areas to the outer edges of cities, where suburban communities are often developed. This movement typically occurs for various reasons, including the desire for more space, lower housing costs, and a preference for perceived safety and quality of life that suburban environments can offer compared to densely populated urban areas. As people relocate to suburbs, they often seek a balance between urban amenities and suburban lifestyles, which frequently feature single-family homes, more green space, and various local services. This trend can influence urban development patterns, infrastructure, and transportation systems, as increased suburban populations create a demand for commuting options and influence local economies. In contrast, the other options describe different demographic or economic processes. The movement from rural areas to cities refers to urbanization, while increases in population density pertain to the intensification of urban areas rather than their outward expansion. Lastly, the decline of city centers can often result from suburbanization, but it specifically points to the impacts economic changes have on city viability, rather than the actual movement of populations.