Settlements & Service Provision

Topics
Factors for site, growth & function of settlements

Settlements are influenced by topography, water availability, resources, climate, and proximity to
transportation routes, affecting their growth and function.

Topography influences the location and layout of settlements.

Water availability is crucial for supporting populations in settlements.
Access to resources can determine the economic activities of a settlement.
Climate conditions impact the suitability and sustainability of settlements.

Patterns of settlement

Patterns of settlement refer to the way human communities are arranged across a landscape,
influenced by factors like resources, topography, and culture.

Factors affecting patterns include accessibility, climate suitability, and historical events.
Types of settlement patterns include linear, clustered, dispersed, and nucleated settlements.
Settlement patterns can evolve over time due to changes in technology, population size, and
economic activities.
Understanding settlement patterns helps geographers analyze human interactions with the
environment.

Settlement Hierarchy

Settlement hierarchy categorizes human settlements based on population size, services, and
functions, from small villages to large cities.

It helps understand the spatial organization and importance of different settlements in a

region.
Hierarchy levels include hamlets, towns, cities, and sometimes regional or world centers.
Settlements at higher levels offer more services, specialized functions, and attract more
people.
The concept aids in urban planning, resource allocation, and development strategies.

Sphere of influence

In geography, the sphere of influence refers to the area surrounding a place that is impacted by
or influenced by that specific location.
 Factors influencing sphere of influence include size, accessibility, services, and competition.
It can be visualized as concentric circles radiating from the central point of influence.
The concept is used to understand how certain locations attract people or resources.
Spheres of influence can overlap, especially in urban areas with multiple competing centers.

Key Terms
Accessibility

Accessibility refers to the ease of reaching and interacting with a location, emphasizing factors
like distance, transportation networks, and barriers to movement.

It is influenced by factors such as topography, infrastructure, and economic resources.

Accessibility impacts land use patterns, urban planning decisions, and the distribution of
human activities.
Improving accessibility can enhance economic development, social integration, and overall
quality of life for communities.
Remote areas may have lower accessibility due to rugged terrain, limited transportation
options, and lack of infrastructure.

Alluvium

Alluvium refers to sediment deposited by flowing water, typically along riverbanks and
floodplains, composed of sand, silt, clay, and gravel.

Alluvium is fertile and supports agriculture.

It can also contain valuable minerals and ores.
Deposition of alluvium creates natural levees and deltas.
Landforms like alluvial fans are formed by the deposition of alluvium from mountain streams.

Aspect

Aspect refers to the compass direction that a slope faces, influencing the amount of sunlight and
precipitation an area receives.

South-facing slopes in the Northern Hemisphere receive more sunlight and are warmer.
Aspect impacts vegetation distribution and soil moisture content.
It plays a role in the formation of microclimates within a larger region.
Agricultural practices are often tailored based on the aspect of the land.

Catchment area
A catchment area is a region drained by a river or body of water, where all precipitation flows
towards a common outlet.

A catchment area can vary in size, from small basins to large watersheds.
Land topography greatly influences the boundaries and characteristics of a catchment area.
The shape and slope of the land impact how water flows within a catchment area.
Vegetation within a catchment area can affect water absorption and runoff rates.

Dispersed settlement

Dispersed settlement refers to a pattern where houses and buildings are spread out over a wide
area, maintaining significant distance between them.

Often found in rural areas where agriculture is the primary economic activity.
Can lead to a lower sense of community and limited access to services.
May result in higher transportation costs for residents.
Typically characterized by a lack of centralized infrastructure and amenities.

Dry point site

A dry point site is an area of high ground in a low-lying or marshy area that remains relatively dry
during periods of heavy rainfall or flooding.

Characterized by good drainage due to elevation

Often chosen for settlement or construction purposes
May provide protection from flooding and waterlogging
Supports various vegetation adapted to drier conditions

Fertile land

Fertile land is soil that is rich in nutrients, conducive to plant growth, and highly productive for
agriculture and farming.

Factors influencing fertility include climate, topography, soil composition, and human
activities.
Organic matter such as decomposed plant and animal material enriches soil fertility.
Crop rotation and cover cropping help maintain and enhance soil fertility.
Excessive use of chemicals and poor land management practices can deplete soil fertility
over time.

High-order goods

High-order goods are products with specialty attributes, often produced in limited quantities,
requiring strong consumer demand and high income levels.
 They are usually expensive and are typically purchased infrequently.
Examples include luxury cars, designer clothing, and high-end electronics.
High-order goods are seen as status symbols or signals of wealth.
These products are often associated with brand loyalty and exclusivity.

Low-order goods

Low-order goods refer to small, everyday items that are purchased frequently and have a low
monetary value, such as groceries and personal care products.

Low-order goods are usually found in convenience stores and supermarkets.

These goods are often necessities that people buy regularly.
Low-order goods are essential for daily living and are easily replaceable.
They are typically inexpensive and do not require much consideration or planning before
purchasing.

Merseybeat

Merseybeat refers to the sound of bands from Liverpool in the 1960s, influenced by rock and roll,
rhythm and blues, and skiffle.

Key bands include The Beatles, Gerry and the Pacemakers, and The Searchers.
The term originated from Merseyside and Beat music, symbolizing the energetic and upbeat
music of the era.
The Merseybeat scene played a significant role in the British Invasion of the American music
market.
The music style featured catchy melodies, vocal harmonies, and a strong rhythm section.

Nucleated settlement

Nucleated settlement refers to a compact, closely grouped settlement pattern often found in
rural areas where buildings are clustered close together for mutual support.

The layout often reflects historical development and could be driven by factors like defense,
agriculture, or trade.
Nucleated settlements typically have a centralized focus like a village green, marketplace, or
church.
These types of settlements promote social interaction and a sense of community among
residents.
Nucleated settlements can have distinct neighborhoods or quarters reflecting different
functions or social groups within the community.

Rural
Rural areas are sparsely populated regions characterized by agriculture, natural landscapes, and
small communities with limited access to services and amenities.

Rural regions tend to have lower population densities compared to urban areas.
Agriculture and farming are primary occupations in rural areas.
Rural populations may face challenges related to healthcare access and infrastructure.
These areas often have a strong connection to nature and outdoor activities.

Settlement

Settlement refers to the spatial distribution and arrangement of human communities and
structures in a particular area, often influenced by factors like resources, topography, and
accessibility.

Settlement patterns can be influenced by physical features, such as water sources and fertile
soil.
Settlements can vary in size, from small rural villages to large urban centers.
The location of settlements can impact social interactions, economic activities, and cultural
developments.
Historical events and human activities play a role in shaping the layout and growth of
settlements.

Site

In the realm of geography, 'site' refers to the precise location and physical characteristics of a
specific place, including factors such as topography, soil composition, and climate.

Site influences human settlement patterns and land use decisions.

It can impact the suitability for certain types of development or activities.
Site studies often involve assessing the environmental and geological conditions of an area.
Understanding site characteristics is crucial for urban planning, agriculture, and resource
management.

Situation

In geography, 'situation' refers to the location of a place in relation to its surrounding features and
its accessibility.

It includes factors such as proximity to water bodies, climate, and resources.

The situation of a place can influence its development and economic activities.
Geographers analyze the situation of a place to understand its strategic importance.
Situational analysis can help in planning transportation routes and infrastructure projects.

Spring-line settlement
Spring-line settlement refers to a type of human settlement that occurs on the lower slopes of
valleys, often associated with a reliable water source.

It typically occurs in regions with a spring or permanent stream providing water for the
settlement.
The settlements are strategically located for access to water while also benefitting from
fertile soils for agriculture.
Spring-line settlements date back to ancient times and can still be observed in various parts
of the world.
These settlements showcase the symbiotic relationship between humans and their natural
environment.

Threshold population

Threshold population refers to the minimum number of people needed to create demand for a
particular good or service in a given area.

Having a threshold population helps businesses determine where to establish their

operations.
It is influenced by factors such as the type of good or service and consumer preferences.
Threshold population calculations can aid in identifying market opportunities and potential
areas for growth.
Understanding threshold population is essential for urban planning and economic
development strategies.

Urban

Urban areas are densely populated regions characterized by high human-made structures,
advanced infrastructure, and commercial activities.

Urbanization is the process of population growth and migration from rural to urban areas.
Urban sprawl refers to the uncontrolled expansion of urban areas into surrounding rural
areas.
Megacities are urban areas with populations exceeding 10 million people.
Urban planning involves designing and organizing urban spaces to optimize functionality and
livability.

Wet point site

A wet point site refers to a location where water surfaces intermittently in arid regions,
sustaining vegetation and facilitating wildlife survival.

Common in deserts and semi-arid areas.

Attracts animals seeking water sources.
 Provide crucial habitats for diverse species.
Can support unique ecosystems with specialized plants and animals.

World Heritage Site

A World Heritage Site is a place recognized by UNESCO for its cultural, historical, scientific, or
other significant value, deserving special protection and preservation.

Selection criteria include outstanding universal value, integrity, and authenticity.

Helps conserve sites for future generations.
Encourages international cooperation in preserving important cultural and natural landmarks.
Can provide economic benefits through tourism and heightened global recognition.