NCERT Solutions for Class 12 Geography Chapter 10 Human Settlements

Ans : (i) (b) linear
(ii) (a) primary
(iii) (d) Mesopotamia
(iv) (b) 42
(v) (c) natural 

Ans : (i)A human settlement is defined as a place inhabited more or less permanently. There may be some settlements which are temporary and are occupied for short periods. maybe a season.


(ii) 



(iii) Settlements can be classified on the basis of:
Population Size
Functions of the Settlement
Occupation of the people
Facilities in the Settlement


(iv) The study of settlement is essential and basic to human geography because the form of
settlement in any particular region reflects the human relationship with the environment. 

Ans : (i) Rural settlements are most closely and directly related to land. They are dominated by primary activities such as agriculture, animal husbandry, fishing etc.
Characteristics of Rural Settlements:
Most people are engaged in agriculture, fishing and other primary activities.
These are smaller in size.
These lack the modern facilities.
The density of population is not very high
People participate in cultural activities.
Urban settlements are densely populated area in which people are engaged in secondary and
tertiary activities mainly.
Characteristics of Urban Settlements:
Most people are engaged in secondary and tertiary activities.
These settlements are well planned.
Urban settlements are large in size.
The density of population is high.
These areas have got complex culture because of mixing of other cultures in it.
They have modern facilities of roads, electricity, water supply etc


(ii) The various problems associated with urban settlements in developing countries are:
People flock to cities to avail of employment opportunities and civic amenities. Since most cities in developing countries are unplanned. it creates severe congestion.
Shortage of housing, vertical expansion and growth of slums are characteristic features ot
Modern cities of developing countries. In many cities an increasing proportion of the population lives in substandard housing, e.g. slums and squatter settlements.
Cities in the developing countries suffer from several social ills. Insufficient financial
Resources tail to create adequate social infrastructure catering to the basic needs of the huge population. The available educational and health facilities remain beyond the reach of the urban poor.
The large urban population in developing countries not only uses but also disposes ott a
huge quantity of water and all types of waste materials.
Many cities of the developing countries even find it extremely difficult to provide the minimum required quantity of potable water and water for domestic and industrial uses. An improper sewerage system creates unhealthy conditions.