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Describe and explain Central Place Theory with reference to example(s) that you have studied. - Leaving Cert Geography - Question B - 2016
Question B
Describe and explain Central Place Theory with reference to example(s) that you have studied.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Describe and explain Central Place Theory with reference to example(s) that you have studied. - Leaving Cert Geography - Question B - 2016
Step 1
Describe Central Place Theory
Answer
Central Place Theory (CPT) was formulated by Walter Christaller in 1933 to explain the size, number, and distribution of human settlements. The theory postulates that settlements, or 'central places', exist to provide goods and services to surrounding areas. The hierarchical nature of settlements is based on their size, with larger settlements offering a wider range of services to a larger market area.
Step 2
Explain the principles of Central Place Theory
Answer
CPT is based on several key principles:
- Hierarchy of Places: Settlements are organized in a hierarchy; larger places (cities) provide more services than smaller places (towns).
- Market Area: Each central place has a market area, or 'hinterland', from which it draws customers. The size of this area is dependent on the range and threshold of goods and services.
- Range and Threshold:
- Range refers to the maximum distance a consumer is willing to travel for a particular good or service.
- Threshold is the minimum market size needed to support a service.
These principles facilitate the spatial organization of settlements, optimizing accessibility for consumers.
Step 3
Give an example of Central Place Theory
Answer
An example of Central Place Theory can be illustrated through the distribution of retail services in a region. For instance, in a hypothetical rural area:
- A small village might offer only basic services like a grocery store, meeting the threshold needed for a small population.
- A larger town would provide a wider variety of services, including a pharmacy and a bank, thereby attracting customers from a larger area.
- This hierarchy continues with a city offering complex services like hospitals and universities, serving the largest hinterlands.
This example reflects the central place pattern where each level of settlement serves a specific market area based on the range and threshold of services that they provide.
Step 4
Provide a diagram illustrating Central Place Theory
Answer
A diagram can enhance understanding of Central Place Theory. A typical CPT diagram includes:
- Circles representing market areas for different central places.
- Larger circles for cities with a larger range of services and customers, and smaller circles for towns and villages.
A labeled diagram would show how the hierarchical system operates, illustrating varying market areas based on the range of services.