Question 1: Define 'urbanization'.

Answer: Urbanization is the process by which an increasing percentage of a country's population lives in cities and urban areas.

Question 2: What is 'suburbanization', and how does it differ from urbanization?

Answer: Suburbanization is the growth of areas on the outskirts of cities, whereas urbanization refers to the growth and expansion of the city centers themselves.

Question 3: Name three major urban areas in the United States known for rapid growth.

Answer: New York City, Los Angeles, Houston

Question 4: Explain 'urban sprawl' and its potential impacts.

Answer: Urban sprawl is the uncontrolled expansion of urban areas into surrounding rural land, often leading to increased traffic, loss of green spaces, and environmental degradation.

Question 5: What is meant by 'counter-urbanization'?

Answer: Counter-urbanization is the movement of people from urban areas to rural or suburban areas, often seeking a better quality of life.

Question 1: Which US city experienced the fastest population growth between 2000 and 2020?

Answer: Houston

Question 2: Name the primary factors driving urbanization in American cities.

Answer: Economic opportunities, better employment prospects, improved services, and infrastructure.

Question 3: What role does transportation infrastructure play in urban growth?

Answer: Efficient transportation infrastructure facilitates movement, attracts residents and businesses, and supports urban expansion.

Question 4: Identify two environmental issues commonly associated with US cities experiencing rapid urbanization.

Answer: Air pollution and urban heat island effect.

Question 1: Based on the case study, describe how New York City manages its transportation demands amid rapid urban growth.

Answer: NYC manages transportation through extensive subway and bus networks, prioritized infrastructure investment, and policies promoting public transit usage to reduce congestion.

Question 2: In Houston, what are the main challenges caused by urban sprawl, and what solutions have been proposed?

Answer: Challenges include increased traffic congestion, loss of green spaces, and strain on infrastructure. Solutions include urban growth boundaries, improved public transit, and sustainable planning.

Question 1: Analyse the main causes of urbanization in American cities.

Answer: Main causes include industrialization, availability of jobs, improved transportation networks, and better healthcare and education facilities attracting rural populations into cities.

Question 2: Explain how urbanization impacts social and environmental aspects in US cities.

Answer: Urbanization improves access to services and employment but can lead to social inequality, congestion, pollution, and loss of green spaces, impacting residents' quality of life and urban sustainability.

Question 1: To what extent have urban planning strategies been successful in managing urban sprawl in US cities like Los Angeles and Houston? Consider environmental, social, and economic aspects.

Answer: Urban planning strategies such as zoning laws, urban growth boundaries, and investment in public transportation have had mixed success. They help contain sprawl and reduce congestion but face challenges like political resistance, funding limitations, and ongoing demand for housing. Overall, while some improvements are evident, further integrated approaches are needed for sustainable urban growth.