Models

There are many many models in Human Geography that are very crucial to human geography. 1. Demographic Transition Model 2. Gravity Model 3. N.AM. Urban Models -Sector Model -Multiple Nuclei Model -Urban Realms Model 4. Models of Industrial Location 5. Von Thunen's Model 6. Epidemiologic Transition Model 7. Core Periphery Model 8. Modernization Model 9. Global Urban Model All of these models represent a certain part of geography. For example, the gravity model is ((population 1 * population 2)/ (Distance^2)). This model helps show how since larger places attract people, ideas, and commodities more than smaller places, the larger place will help the smaller place grow. Another example of a different part of geography is the von Thunen Model.

As shown in the image the von Thunen model shows what surrounds the cities and why. Keep in mind, the model was created before industrialization, so it is not completely true now. The farming and dairy is right near the main city because those are perishable items that need to be transported quickly. The next layer is forest, this is here because it is hard to transport such heavy items that are always needed so they need to be close to the city for transportation reasons. Third layer is extensive field crops. These are located at this level because grain lasts much longer than dairy and is light and easy to transport. The last layer, is ranching and animal products. This is the last level because their transportation is very easy because animals can transport themselves to be sold in the city, or butchered.
The two explained are just a couple examples of how all of the models are very important to every part of human geography!



http://geography.about.com/library/weekly/aa031601a.htm
http://geography.about.com/od/urbaneconomicgeography/a/vonthunen.htm
http://0.tqn.com/d/geography/1/G/b/9/vt.gif