Population Density and Distribution: INTRODUCTION

No, population distribution and population density are not the same thing...here's the difference:

Image: From Conde Nast Traveller India 

What is Population Distribution? 

Population Distribution is the way people are spread across a geographical area. Population distribution is usually uneven and over time, changes. Population distribution can be represented on a dot map. 

What is Population Density?

Population Density refers to the number of people that leave per square unit area. Population Density can be represented on a choropleth map.  

Population Distribution Formula:

On a global scale, population density and distribution patterns can be influenced by physical factors such as: 

• Relief
• Climate 
• Water Supply
• Vegetation 
• Soil

On a smaller scale, namely local or regional, patterns of population distribution and density can be influenced by 

• Economic factors
• Social factors 
• Political factors