Previous Year Question
Which one of the following is known as acceleration stage in the urbanization curve?
First stage
Second stage
Third stage
Fourth stage
Correct Answer: B
Detailed Solution
The process of urbanization is commonly explained through an S-shaped Urbanization Curve, which shows initial, acceleration and terminal stages according to the pace of urbanization.
The Second Stage is known as the Acceleration Stage. During this stage, the proportion of the urban population increases rapidly and the slope of the urbanization curve becomes quite steep.
This stage is also associated with structural changes in the economy. Employment and economic activities become increasingly concentrated in manufacturing, trade and services, while the relative importance of the primary sector, particularly agriculture, begins to decline. This can accelerate population movement from rural areas towards towns and cities.
In contrast, the First Stage is characterised by relatively slow urbanization and a predominantly agrarian economy, whereas in the Third or Terminal Stage, urbanization has already reached a high level and its rate of increase begins to slow down again.