Despite the devastation caused by flooding, large populations of people in East Asia live near rivers and the coast for all of the reasons below except:
To be closer to sources of fresh water
The reasons why large populations of people in East Asia live near rivers and the coast include:
1. Access to Water: Rivers and coastal areas provide a readily available source of freshwater, which is essential for human survival and various activities such as agriculture, industry, and domestic use.
2. Transportation and Trade: Rivers and coastlines serve as natural transportation routes, allowing for the movement of goods and people. This proximity to waterways facilitates trade and economic activities.
3. Fishing and Agriculture: Rivers and coastlines support abundant marine and freshwater resources, making them ideal for fishing and farming activities. These resources provide food security and economic opportunities for the local population.
4. Historical and Cultural Significance: Many cities and settlements in East Asia were historically established along rivers and coasts. As a result, these areas often have rich cultural heritage and historical significance.
However, the answer to the question is the following:
One reason why large populations in East Asia may not choose to live near rivers and the coast is the risk of flooding and devastation caused by natural disasters. Flooding can be associated with heavy rainfall, storm surges, or the overflow of rivers, posing a threat to human life, infrastructure, and property. Therefore, the answer is the risk of flooding and natural disasters.
To determine the reason why large populations of people in East Asia live near rivers and the coast, we need to consider the possible benefits and factors influencing their decision. Let's examine each option one by one:
1. Access to water for drinking and farming: This is a valid reason why people might choose to live near rivers and the coast. Rivers provide a source of freshwater for drinking, irrigation, and farming, which are essential for sustaining life and agriculture. However, this alone does not fully explain why large populations choose to settle in flood-prone areas.
2. Transportation and trade routes: Rivers and coastlines often serve as natural transportation and trade routes. They allow for the movement of goods and people, enabling trade and economic activities to flourish. This creates opportunities for commerce and benefits the local economy. Therefore, this could be a reason why people settle in these areas.
3. Fishing and marine resources: Coastal areas offer access to the sea, allowing for fishing and the exploitation of marine resources. This can provide a vital source of livelihood for local communities. Consequently, this is a possible reason why people live near the coast.
4. Protection from natural disasters: This option states that living near rivers and the coast does not provide protection from natural disasters, such as flooding. While it is true that these areas are prone to flooding, it is essential to note that this reason contradicts the question statement. East Asia experiences frequent flooding events, and people often take measures to mitigate the risks associated with it. Therefore, this option does not explain why large populations choose to live near rivers and the coast.
Based on the explanations above, the answer is: Protection from natural disasters.