Which of the following is an economic factor influencing the distribution of population?

Minerals

The correct answer is Option (2) → Minerals

Minerals are an economic factor influencing the distribution of population because:

• Areas rich in mineral resources attract industries, which in turn generate employment opportunities.

• This leads to the growth of towns and cities, drawing people for economic reasons.

The other options — landforms, climate, and soils — are physical factors, not economic.