In this lesson, you will identify and analyze the geographic factors that influence the placement of settlements in a country. The geography and climate of an area are the most important factors in determining whether a settlement will be established. The presence of the following elements can either deter or encourage settlement in an area. Click each term below to discover its relationship to settlements.
| Rivers
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 Source: View of Cairo from the Nile, Central Intelligence Agency Rivers are essential to the survival of many settlements. Rivers supply transportation and trade routes as well as irrigation, power, and nourishment for the population. |
Mountains
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 Source: Juyonhgguan, Central Intelligence Agency. Mountains can be a deterrent for some but also serves as protection from enemies. Most settlements will not be located in mountainous areas unless there is also a reliable source of water present. |
Valleys
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 Source: View of the Gallatin River, Central Intelligence Agency Valleys provide protection from weather and typically have a river or other water source either running through the middle of them or somewhere close by. |
Oceans
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 Source: Ocean Surface, NASA. Oceans are very useful for ports of trade. Most cities that are located on the ocean are also located at the mouth of a river for use as a fresh water source. |
| Extremely Cold Temperatures
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 Source: Argentine Antarctic Research station, central Intelligence Agency. Extremely Cold Temperatures - locations toward the north or south pole tend to be less populated due to the harsh weather conditions. This is true as you move away from the equator in either direction. |
Extremely Hot Temperatures
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 Source: Photo, dunes encroaching, Central Intelligence Agency. Extremely Hot Temperatures - locations very close to the equator or in very dry, hot desert conditions are less desirable for settlement as it can be difficult to cultivate the land. |
Lack of Rainfall
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 Source: Linear dunes, U.S. Geological Survey. Lack of Rainfall - settlements that are established near renewable water sources such as rivers and streams also must rely on an adequate amount of rainfall to replenish their water supply. Lack of rainfall results in difficulty cultivating crops as well as inadequate drinking water. |
Excessive Rainfall
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 Source: 1993-Flood, U.S. Geological Survey. Excessive Rainfall - too much rainfall can also result in an area that is difficult to settle. Problems with flooding can have the same effect on a settlement as not enough rainfall. |
Activity 1
Look at the map below, which area do you think is the best place to establish a settlement? (Choose: A, B, C or D). Why? Record your answers in your 
Tool.
Adapted from Northeastern U.S Physical, Free World Maps
Open the Megacities.ppt
Take a look at the map below. It is a physical map of the world. Remember that the purpose of a physical map is to show the physical features (bodies of water, elevation, capital and major cities) of an area.
Look for characteristics that these cities have in common.
Select one of the countries listed below. Click on the country's link to research information about your selected country and answer the following questions in your tool.
- Name one important geographic feature of this country.
- How does this geographic feature impact the pattern of settlement in this country?
- Give at least two examples of how the people of this country interact with their environment?
