Impacts of Urbanization (College Board AP® Environmental Science): Exam Questions

2 mins2 questions
11 mark

Which of the following is a major environmental impact of urbanisation?

  • Increased groundwater recharge due to more water being available in cities  

  • Reduced carbon emissions as cities are more energy-efficient than rural areas  

  • Increased impervious surfaces leading to more runoff and flooding  

  • Decreased resource consumption due to higher population density  

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21 mark

How does urbanisation contribute to the urban heat island (UHI) effect? 

  • Increased vegetation in cities helps cool the environment through evapotranspiration.  

  • High concentrations of buildings, roads, and pavement absorb and retain heat.  

  • More bodies of water in cities regulate temperature and prevent overheating.  

  • Urban areas experience stronger winds, which disperse heat more effectively.  

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