Question

the amount of natural land has decreased over time.
the amount of urbanization has decreased over time.
the amounts of natural land and urbanization have both increased over time.
the amounts of natural land and urbanization have both decreased over time.

Explanation:

Analyze the map sequence

The three maps show a region changing over time. The green areas represent natural land, while the grey/blue areas represent urbanized zones.

Observe the trends

Comparing the maps from left to right, the green natural areas shrink. The grey urbanized areas expand significantly.

Evaluate the options

The first option states that natural land has decreased over time. This matches our visual observation of shrinking green space.

Confirm the correct choice

Urbanization has increased, not decreased. Therefore, the first option is the only accurate description of the environmental change.

Answer:

• The amount of natural land has decreased over time. (Correct answer)
• The amount of urbanization has decreased over time.
• The amounts of natural land and urbanization have both increased over time.
• The amounts of natural land and urbanization have both decreased over time.