Which geographic feature best describes the settlement pattern in Canada?

• A. High elevations.
• B. Arid climate with little rainfall.
• C. Desert-like landscapes with sparse water resources.
• D. Availability of water and fertile land.

Answer: (D)

Where people settle is strongly tied to access to water and fertile land. In Canada, populations tend to cluster along coastlines and in river valleys and fertile prairie regions because these areas provide reliable water for drinking and farming, as well as productive soils for crops and easy routes for transport and trade. While mountains and northern areas exist, they are not as favorable for large settlements as places with abundant water and good farmland. The other descriptions describe conditions that aren’t representative of where most Canadians live.