Database results:
examBoard: Cambridge
examType: IGCSE
lessonTitle: Global Population Distribution
The world's 8 billion people aren't spread evenly across Earth's surface. Some areas are packed with people while others remain nearly empty. Understanding where people live and why they live there helps us make sense of many environmental challenges.
Key Definitions:
If we look at a world map showing population density, we can see clear patterns. About 90% of people live in just 10% of the land area! The most striking feature is that people are not evenly distributed.
The world has several major population clusters:
Some regions have very few people:
Where people live is strongly influenced by the natural environment. These physical factors have shaped settlement patterns throughout human history.
Most people live in areas with moderate climates. Extreme heat, cold, or rainfall can make areas less habitable.
Example: The temperate climate of Europe supports high population densities, while the harsh climate of Siberia limits settlement.
Flat or gently rolling land is easier to build on and farm than steep mountains or rugged terrain.
Example: The North European Plain has dense populations, while the Alps are more sparsely populated.
Access to fresh water is essential for drinking, farming and industry. Most major cities are near rivers, lakes, or coastlines.
Example: The Nile River Valley supports 95% of Egypt's population despite being just 5% of its land area.
Fertile soils support agriculture, which has historically determined where people could settle.
Example: The rich alluvial soils of the Ganges River basin support one of the world's densest rural populations.
Areas rich in minerals, fossil fuels, or other resources often attract settlements.
Example: Mining towns in previously empty areas of Australia's Pilbara region.
Areas prone to frequent disasters like floods, earthquakes, or volcanic eruptions may be less populated.
Example: Parts of the Pacific "Ring of Fire" have lower population densities due to volcanic activity.
Beyond physical factors, human activities and decisions also shape where people live.
People tend to move where jobs and economic opportunities exist:
Example: The Pearl River Delta in China has transformed from farmland to one of the world's most densely populated regions due to manufacturing growth.
History and politics shape settlement patterns:
Example: Australia's population is concentrated in coastal cities partly due to its history as a British colony with sea-based connections.
Good transport links and infrastructure make areas more accessible and attractive:
Example: Singapore's strategic location as a port city has helped it become a densely populated global hub.
Social and cultural influences affect where people choose to live:
Example: The cultural and religious significance of Jerusalem has maintained its population despite challenging environmental conditions.
The Indo-Gangetic Plain stretches across northern India, Pakistan and Bangladesh. Despite covering less than 7% of the Asian land area, it's home to nearly 1 billion people!
Why so many people live here:
This region demonstrates how physical and human factors combine to create one of the world's most densely populated areas, with population densities exceeding 1,000 people per square kilometre in many places.
The Empty Quarter is the world's largest sand desert, covering much of the southern Arabian Peninsula across Saudi Arabia, Oman, UAE and Yemen. Despite its vast size (650,000 km²), it has almost no permanent human population.
Why so few people live here:
Only small numbers of Bedouin nomads traditionally traversed this region, following seasonal patterns. Modern oil exploration has brought temporary settlements, but the harsh environment continues to limit permanent population.
When we examine global population distribution, several important patterns emerge:
Understanding these patterns helps us predict population changes, plan for resource needs and address environmental challenges in different regions.
Log in to track your progress and mark lessons as complete!
Login NowDon't have an account? Sign up here.