Population Distribution and Density

Section 1Distribution versus density

Population distribution describes the pattern of where people live. Population density tells how crowded an area is by comparing people to land area. Here's the trick: distribution is the pattern; density is the calculation.

Section 2Density formula

Population density = total population divided by land area. The usual unit is persons per square kilometre. Watch out: if the area is in square kilometres, your answer should say persons per square kilometre, not just a plain number.

Section 3Describing patterns

When describing population distribution, use words such as dense, sparse, clustered, scattered, uneven, coastal, inland, urban, or rural. A good answer says where people are concentrated and where fewer people live.

Section 4Explaining patterns

Population patterns are influenced by jobs, transport, relief, climate, soil, water, services, safety, and history. In Jamaica, people are often concentrated around urban and coastal areas where jobs, roads, ports, and services are more available.

Section 5Dot maps

Dot maps use dots to show where people or features are located. More dots in an area show a higher concentration. In plain words, dot maps help you see population pattern quickly, but you still need to describe and explain the pattern carefully.