InTeGrate Modules and Courses >Coastal Processes, Hazards and Society > Student Materials > Module 10: Understanding and assessing coastal vulnerabilities > Dimension 1: Exposure > Density of People and Property
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These materials are part of a collection of classroom-tested modules and courses developed by InTeGrate. The materials engage students in understanding the earth system as it intertwines with key societal issues. The collection is freely available and ready to be adapted by undergraduate educators across a range of courses including: general education or majors courses in Earth-focused disciplines such as geoscience or environmental science, social science, engineering, and other sciences, as well as courses for interdisciplinary programs.
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Density of People and Property

The density of people and things they value within the hazard area also affects their exposure. Exposure is generally higher in areas of dense development, such as cities, where each additional square kilometer affected by the hazard will expose large numbers of people and property to potential harm. Thus, while flooding of 1 square kilometer of shoreline might affect only a few people in rural Delaware, flooding of 1 square kilometer in the New York City metro area would affect thousands.

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Population Density

The density of persons and property in the hazard zone is an important component of exposure. As shown in the "night lights" map below, the amount of light a place produces is one way to measure this density.

Question 1 - Essay

Which countries are brightest on this map, and what does this tell you about the density of people and property at these locations

Question 2 - Essay

Can you think of any problems with using night lights to measure the density of people and property?

These materials are part of a collection of classroom-tested modules and courses developed by InTeGrate. The materials engage students in understanding the earth system as it intertwines with key societal issues. The collection is freely available and ready to be adapted by undergraduate educators across a range of courses including: general education or majors courses in Earth-focused disciplines such as geoscience or environmental science, social science, engineering, and other sciences, as well as courses for interdisciplinary programs.
Explore the Collection »