Question

Difficulty: MediumPopulation Distribution and Density Factors

Which of the following physical factors is primarily responsible for the high population density observed on the Jos Plateau in Nigeria?

  1. Cooler highland temperatures and freedom from tsetse fliesAnswer
  2. B
    Severe drought in surrounding origin regions acting as an attractive pull factor
  3. C
    An inverted dependency ratio where dependent age groups form the primary labor workforce
  4. D
    Linear settlement alignment restricted strictly along major river channels

Answer

Cooler highland temperatures and freedom from tsetse flies
High population density on the Jos Plateau is primarily sustained by its high altitude, which yields a cooler temperate climate and creates an environment free of tsetse flies, making the region highly suitable for dense human habitation and cattle rearing.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze physical environment factors influencing human settlement on the Jos Plateau.
Identified high altitude resulting in temperate climatic conditions and disease vector reduction.
Altitude reduces ambient temperature and eliminates vectors like tsetse flies that cause trypanosomiasis.
2
Evaluate how these physical conditions affect population concentration.
The favorable health environment and temperate weather attract high population density relative to surrounding lowlands.
Physical health conditions and climate directly control regional carrying capacity and human settlement.

Key Concept

Physical factors affecting population distribution and density
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