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
1. Access to water and fishing resources: Living near rivers and the coast provides easy access to water sources, allowing for agriculture, domestic use, and fishing. This is an important factor for communities that rely on these resources for their livelihoods.
2. Transportation and trade: Rivers and coastlines have historically been vital routes for transportation and trade. Living near these water bodies allows for easier mobility and access to markets, facilitating economic activities and development.
3. Cultural and historical significance: Many civilizations in East Asia have developed and thrived near rivers and the coast. These areas often hold cultural and historical significance, attracting residents who value heritage and connection to their ancestral lands.
4. Scenic beauty and recreational opportunities: Rivers and coastlines provide picturesque landscapes and recreational opportunities such as boating, swimming, and beach activities. Living near these natural environments offers a more aesthetic lifestyle for some individuals.
The answer is: Protection from floods and natural disasters.
Despite the devastation caused by flooding, large populations of people in East Asia live near rivers and the coast for all of the following reasons except economic opportunities.
Living near rivers and coasts in East Asia provides access to water resources for irrigation, transportation, and trade. These regions also have fertile soils ideal for agriculture, fishing opportunities, and proximity to major cities for employment and economic activities. Additionally, cultural and historical factors, such as traditional practices and settlements near water bodies, can also play a role in the concentration of populations in these areas.
However, economic opportunities are not the main reason why people live near rivers and the coast in East Asia. While these regions may offer economic advantages, such as access to ports or tourist attractions, it is not the primary factor driving people to settle in these areas. Instead, other factors like geographical features, historical settlements, and access to resources are more influential in determining population distribution in East Asia.
To determine the reasons why large populations of people in East Asia live near rivers and the coast, we can consider the geography and historical factors of the region. Here are some common reasons:
1. Access to water resources: Rivers and coastlines offer access to freshwater for drinking, irrigation, and transportation. The fertile soil deposited by rivers also supports agriculture, which is crucial for food production.
2. Trade and transportation: Rivers and coasts provide convenient transportation routes for trade and commerce. Historically, major rivers in East Asia, such as the Yangtze and Pearl River in China, have acted as vital trade routes, allowing the movement of goods and facilitating economic growth.
3. Natural resources and fishing: River basins and coastal areas are often abundant in natural resources, including minerals, timber, and fish. These resources can be harnessed for economic purposes, such as mining, logging, and fishing industries, attracting human settlements.
4. Historical and cultural reasons: Many traditional East Asian cultures have a deep connection with rivers and the sea. For instance, in China, the concept of "river civilization" has fostered the development of cities along rivers for thousands of years. Additionally, coastal regions have a long history of maritime trade and cultural exchange.
Taking all these factors into account, the exception to the reasons why large populations live near rivers and the coast in East Asia could be the lack of access to water resources. However, since this choice is not provided in the question, we cannot single out a definitive exception without additional information.