Which of the following is an economic factor influencing the distribution of population?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 2
The correct answer is Option (2) → Minerals
The distribution of population depends on geographical factors (water, landforms, climate, soils), economic factors (minerals, urbanisation, industrialisation) and social and cultural factors.
Option (1) Landforms — Incorrect. Landforms are a geographical factor. People prefer flat plains and gentle slopes, where crops, roads and industries are easy to develop.
Option (2) Minerals — Correct. Minerals are an economic factor. Mineral deposits attract industries, and mining and industry give jobs, so workers move there.
Option (3) Climate — Incorrect. Climate is a geographical factor. Very hot, very cold or very wet places have few people.
Option (4) Soils — Incorrect. Soils are a geographical factor. Fertile loamy soils support intensive agriculture and so support more people.
Note: A similar question was also asked in CUET (UG) 2023 on 23-05-2023 (Slot 1).
NCERT (2026-27): “II. Economic Factors (i) Minerals: Areas with mineral deposits attract industries. Mining and industrial activities generate employment. So, skilled and semi–skilled workers move to these areas and make them densely populated.” |