Which of the following services or businesses would likely not be found in a lower-order settlement?

• A. A local bakery
• B. A convenience store
• C. A primary school
• D. A specialized hospital

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of 'lower-order settlements' in urban economics: these are smaller towns or villages that provide basic goods and services to their residents and nearby rural areas.
2. Recall the idea of 'central place theory,' which explains that lower-order settlements typically offer low-threshold, frequently demanded goods and services such as groceries, basic education, and everyday necessities.
3. Identify the types of services listed: a local bakery, a convenience store, and a primary school are all examples of basic, everyday services that meet the needs of local residents and are commonly found in lower-order settlements.
4. Recognize that a specialized hospital provides advanced medical services that require a larger population base to be economically viable, and thus is usually located in higher-order settlements or larger cities.
5. Conclude that among the options, the specialized hospital is the service least likely to be found in a lower-order settlement because it serves a wider area and requires more resources and specialized staff.