Question

which of the following is true about population distribution patterns?
a extreme climates may discourage people from living in certain areas.
b government policies do not affect population distribution patterns.
c in todays global market, the availability of natural resources has no effect on population distribution.
d areas with limited oil and fresh water supplies always have very small populations.

Explanation:

• Option A: Extreme climates (e.g., deserts with harsh heat and lack of water, or polar regions with extreme cold) often make it difficult for people to live comfortably. For example, in the Sahara Desert, the extreme heat and aridity discourage large - scale permanent settlement.
• Option B: Government policies can significantly affect population distribution. For instance, a government may offer incentives for people to move to less - populated areas (e.g., tax breaks, subsidized housing) or restrict movement (e.g., through zoning laws or limitations on building in certain areas). So, the statement that government policies do not affect population distribution is false.
• Option C: In today's global market, the availability of natural resources (e.g., oil in the Middle East attracting workers for extraction, fertile land in the Midwest of the US attracting farmers) has a major impact on population distribution. People tend to move to areas where resources can provide economic opportunities.
• Option D: Areas with limited oil (which is not a necessity for all human settlements) and fresh water (a necessity, but there are technologies like desalination and water - sharing agreements). For example, Singapore has limited fresh water but a large population due to its economic opportunities and water - management strategies. So, the statement that such areas always have very small populations is false.

Answer:

A. Extreme climates may discourage people from living in certain areas.