The study of patterns of human population distribution and density is called ______.

The correct answer is Demography.

Key Points

• Demography is the statistical study of human populations, focusing on aspects such as population size, distribution, density, composition, and trends over time.
• It includes the analysis of factors like birth rates, death rates, migration, and aging, which influence population dynamics.
• Demography plays a critical role in policy-making, especially in areas like healthcare, education, housing, and employment.
• The term is derived from the Greek words "demos" (people) and "graphy" (study or writing), essentially meaning the study of people.
• Renowned demographers include Thomas Malthus, known for his theories on population growth and its impact on resources.

Additional Information

• Population Density: Refers to the number of people living per unit area, often expressed as persons per square kilometer.
• Population Distribution: Indicates how people are spread across a specific area or region. It can be uneven due to factors like geography, climate, and resources.
• Crude Birth Rate: The number of live births per 1,000 people in a population within a given year.
• Crude Death Rate: The number of deaths per 1,000 people in a population within a given year.
• Migration: Refers to the movement of people from one place to another, which can impact population size and distribution. Migration can be internal (within a country) or international.