In a region a particular service requires a minimum market (threshold) of 12 000 consumers and has a range of 80 km. Three towns have the following populations and mutual distances (km):

Town A: 8 000; Town B: 15 000; Town C: 25 000.
Distances: A-B 30 km, A-C 70 km, B-C 45 km.

Identify which towns can act as a service centre. Then assess whether a new service centre could be located at a point equidistant from Town A and Town B and still serve both towns within the range.

Question

In a region a particular service requires a minimum market (threshold) of 12 000 consumers and has a range of 80 km. Three towns have the following populations and mutual distances (km):

Town A: 8 000; Town B: 15 000; Town C: 25 000.
Distances: A-B 30 km, A-C 70 km, B-C 45 km.

Identify which towns can act as a service centre. Then assess whether a new service centre could be located at a point equidistant from Town A and Town B and still serve both towns within the range.

Accepted Answer

Town B and Town C can be service centres. A midpoint between A and B is within range but does not meet the 12 000‑consumer threshold, so it is not viable.

Gce Model Questions Vol1 2019 Geography Question 40

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