Which characteristics are indicative of urban sprawl?

Urban sprawl is characterized by a spread of urban development into suburban or rural areas, leading to a low-density pattern of growth. The first choice includes abundant shopping malls, unclear town boundaries, and dense, congested traffic, all of which are key indicators of urban sprawl.

Abundant shopping malls suggest that development has expanded beyond traditional urban centers to accommodate consumers in outlying areas. This often goes hand-in-hand with residential development that spreads outward, promoting reliance on automobiles for commuting and shopping.

Unclear town boundaries indicate a merging of urban and suburban areas, where urban development extends into previously rural or undeveloped land, blurring the distinctions between different municipalities and regions.

Dense, congested traffic is a common consequence of urban sprawl, as more people living in outlying areas typically rely on cars for transportation. This can lead to increased traffic congestion as more vehicles are on the roads, further emphasizing the challenges associated with sprawl, such as increased air pollution and longer commute times.

Together, these characteristics create a comprehensive picture of urban sprawl, demonstrating how it affects urban planning and environmental sustainability.