Northern Canada is sparsely populated primarily due to:
A. Harsh climatic conditions and limited economic opportunities.
B. High levels of urbanization.
C. Abundant natural resources and strong economic development.
D. A dense network of transportation infrastructure.
A. Harsh climatic conditions and limited economic opportunities.
The correct answer is A. Harsh climatic conditions and limited economic opportunities.
To arrive at this answer, you must consider the factors that impact population distribution in a particular region. Let's evaluate each option and explain how to eliminate them:
A. Harsh climatic conditions and limited economic opportunities: This is the most plausible answer as Northern Canada is known for its severe weather conditions, including extremely cold temperatures and long winters. Additionally, the region has limited economic opportunities, with fewer industries and job prospects compared to more populated areas.
B. High levels of urbanization: Northern Canada is actually characterized by low population density and limited urbanization. Urbanization refers to the growth of cities and the migration of people from rural to urban areas. In Northern Canada, there are fewer urban centers and less population concentration.
C. Abundant natural resources and strong economic development: While Northern Canada does have significant natural resources like minerals, oil, and gas, strong economic development is not a primary reason for the region's sparse population. Exploiting these resources requires significant investments in infrastructure and would lead to a more robust economy. However, this has not been sufficient to attract a large population.
D. A dense network of transportation infrastructure: This option can be eliminated as Northern Canada faces challenges in transportation due to the vast size of the region, limited road networks, and difficult terrain. The lack of a dense transportation infrastructure hinders people's mobility and access to resources, making it less attractive for settlement.
By considering these factors, it becomes clear that option A is the most accurate explanation for the sparsely populated nature of Northern Canada.
The correct answer is A. Harsh climatic conditions and limited economic opportunities.
Northern Canada is sparsely populated primarily due to its harsh climatic conditions and limited economic opportunities. The region experiences long, cold winters and short, cool summers, making it challenging for human habitation. The extreme weather conditions, including heavy snowfall and strong winds, make daily life difficult for residents.
Additionally, the lack of economic opportunities in Northern Canada further discourages population growth. The region's remote location and limited infrastructure make it challenging to attract investment and develop industries. The harsh climate and limited accessibility can hinder economic development and job creation, making it unattractive for people to settle in the area.
Thus, the combination of harsh climatic conditions and limited economic opportunities is the primary reason why Northern Canada is sparsely populated.