What is urban sprawl?

Urban sprawl refers to the uncontrolled and often unplanned expansion of urban areas into the surrounding rural land. This phenomenon generally occurs when cities extend their boundaries primarily to accommodate growing populations and economic activities. The hallmark of urban sprawl is the low-density development that spreads out over large areas, leading to increased dependence on automobiles, longer commute times, and potential strain on infrastructure and environmental resources.

Urban sprawl can result in various issues, such as loss of natural habitats, increased air pollution, and the fragmentation of communities. Efforts to control urban sprawl focus on developing more sustainable land use policies and encouraging higher-density settlements that make better use of existing infrastructure.

The other options represent different concepts that do not accurately capture the essence of urban sprawl. For instance, controlled expansion or systematic development reflects planned growth strategies that contrast with the unregulated nature of urban sprawl. Similarly, the rapid relocation of urban populations to rural areas implies a demographic shift rather than the outward spread of urban development into countryside. Understanding urban sprawl is critical for addressing the sustainability challenges faced by many communities today.