(a) Outline two characteristic features of each of the following:
(i) Cornubation
(ii) Megapolis
(b) With specific examples, explain any six functions which settlements perform.
Explanation
(a) (i) Characteristic features of Conurbation are:
– it is an urban settlement
– two or more large cities/towns merge to form Conurbation
– the big cities are merged together by rapid population growth and physical
expansion but with different identities
– the cities retain their distinct identities
– the big cities are linked by efficient transportation system/network
– the big cities form one large market for industries, trade and transport
– it is a continuous built-up area
– has a high population density
– Its population is much greater than that of the nearby towns
– it has various industries operating in it
– It relies on the reserves of labour, excellent transport, Medicare, etc
– conurbation serves as a shopping centre due to the cheap and excellent transport facilities
– it has a unique financial strength
– Examples: Lagos, Accra, Ruhr Valley, Serreaunda, Monrovia, Tokyo, etc
(a) (ii) Characteristic features of Megapolis are:
– it is also called megalopolis/mega city/supper city
– the highest category of settlement
– has large territories consisting of great conurbations
– it is highly urbanized region
– a very large city with population of more than 10 million inhabitants
– an urban complex
– linked with communication/transport networks
– continuous built-up area
– Examples: North East USA, New Delhi, Cairo, Lagos, etc
(b)
Most settlements now are multi-functional. This means they perform a range of functions. However, some may be more important than others. For instance, a tourist town such as Whitby, will perform all sorts of functions including fishing and retail, but its main ones are concentrated towards the tourists.
When settlements first formed they often had one main function. These functions included:
- port – This was the original function of settlements such as Liverpool and Hull. Both are still ports but the importance of the port has reduced and they are now multifunctional settlements.
- market town – Originally, Watford was a market town. The market continues today but the area is now a multifunctional centre.
- resort – Coastal locations such as Blackpool, Southport and Scarborough benefit from tourism, their main function is as a coastal resort.
- Natural resources in the area led to Sheffield developing as an important centre for iron and steel production. Although the iron and steel industry has declined over time the city is now multifunctional.