Geographical space is a term used in the field of geography to describe the particular way in which a society is organized within a physical space. Alternatively, it can refer to the physical space itself after being structured by a specific society. This idea refers to how societies interact with their environment, which is classified into different types of “landscapes”, such as the natural, artificial, agricultural, industrial, urban, etc. It can also be used with the same meaning as “territory.”
In this ecology article, we will tell you What is a graphic space, its characteristics, components and examples.
What is geographical space and characteristics
A geographical space is a fundamental concept in The geography which refers to complex and constant interaction between physical and human characteristics of one certain land area. This notion goes beyond a simple geographical location in terms of coordinates, since it encompasses a wide range of elements that influence the configuration and dynamics of a region.
First, the geographical space consists of physical aspects. This includes The topography of the terrain, the weather, the hydrography, geology and vegetationamong other natural factors. These physical characteristics are essential to understand the environment of a particular geographical area and how they influence human activities that are developed there. For example, climate can determine the types of crops that can be cultivated, topography influences accessibility and hydrography in the availability of water resources.
In addition to physical components, the geographical space is also defined by human aspects. This covers The population, economic activities, culture, politics and technology. The interaction between people and their environment is an essential part of the geographical study. For example, population density and distribution of human settlements may vary considerably from one region to another, which in turn affects the organization of society and economic dynamics.
The geographical space is not static. Is constantly changing due to a variety of factors. Globalization, migration, climate change and technological advances are just some examples of forces that can significantly alter geographical space over time.
Here you can learn about the branches of geography and what each one studies.
Types of geographic space
The geographical space is diverse and can be broken down into different types or categories for a more detailed and specific understanding. These types of geographical spaces may vary according to several criteria, such as the function, the scale or the predominant characteristics. These are the best known types of geographical space:
- Rural space: This type of geographical space is characterized by its low population density and the predominance of agricultural, livestock and forestry activities. Rural landscapes are usually dominated by fields, grasslands and natural areas.
- Urban space: In contrast to rural space, urban space is characterized by high population density and the predominance of non -agricultural activities, such as industry, commerce and services. Metropolitan cities and areas are examples of urban space. We recommend reading about the characteristics of the rural and urban ecosystem.
- Industrial space: This type of geographical space is closely related to the economic activities of production and manufacturing. Includes industrial areas, business parks and areas where the production of goods and services is concentrated.
- Natural space: Natural spaces are characterized by the absence of significant human developments. This includes national parks, natural reserves, wild areas and natural habitats.
- Cultural space: This type of geographical space is linked to cultural practices and human manifestations. They can include historical sites, religious places, museums, monuments and areas where cultural identities of local communities are expressed.
- Political space: The political space refers to geographical divisions that have political relevance, such as national, regional or municipal borders.
- Maritime Space: This type of geographical space is related to oceans and seas. Includes exclusive economic zones, navigation routes, ports and protected maritime areas. Maritime spaces are essential for global trade, fishing and marine biodiversity.
- Airspace: Airspace refers to the portion of the atmosphere on a determined geographical area. It is used for air navigation, aviation and communications.
GEOGRAPHICAL SPACE COMPONENTS
The geographical space consists of several interrelated components that help characterize and understand their complexity. These components are fundamental for geographical research and to understand how geographical areas work and evolve:
- Relief: The relief refers to the topography of the land, including mountains, hills, valleys, plains, plateaus and other physical elements of the landscape. Here you can learn about the types of relief and their characteristics.
- Climate and Meteorology: Climate refers to long -term atmospheric conditions in a region, including temperature, precipitation, humidity and other meteorological factors. In this other post you can learn more about what weather is.
- Hydrography: Hydrography refers to water bodies, such as rivers, lakes, oceans and groundwater.
- Soil and geology: The composition of the soil and the underlying geological characteristics have a significant impact on agriculture, mining, construction and availability of natural resources. Here you can read about the types of soils and their main characteristics.
- Earth vegetation and use: Vegetation, including forests, jungles, grasslands and urban areas, is a critical component of geographical space.
- Population and settlements: Population density, settlement distribution and demographic structure influence the social, economic and political organization of a region.
- Infrastructure and transport: The infrastructure, which includes roads, railways, ports, airports and other facilities, is essential for economic connectivity and development.
- Culture and Society: Culture, social practices, beliefs and values of a society are important components of geographical space.
Examples of geographic space
The concept of geographical space can be so wide that it is often difficult to point out examples without falling into the obvious. A house It can be a geographical space, it can be The city in which it is located, it can be The valley in which the city is located, or it can be all The Sierra to which the valley belongs.
On a larger scale, a geographical space can also be considered The country region where the mountain range is located, or the whole country, or the continent in which it is located, or all The Earth. It all depends on the current perspective and specific interests.
If you want to read more articles similar to Geographic space: What is, components and exampleswe recommend that you enter our category of other environment.
