When does upward growth of cities typically occur in the context of economics?

• A. When land prices in the city center become very high
• B. When there is an abundance of undeveloped land at the city's edge
• C. When population density decreases significantly
• D. When government policies restrict building heights

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the economic forces that influence urban development, particularly the role of land prices and space constraints in city centers.
2. Recognize that upward growth (building taller structures) is a response to high land prices, as developers seek to maximize the use of expensive land by building vertically.
3. Consider the alternative scenarios: abundant undeveloped land at the city's edge typically encourages horizontal expansion rather than upward growth.
4. Note that a decrease in population density reduces the pressure to build upwards, as there is less demand for space in the city center.
5. Acknowledge that government policies restricting building heights can limit upward growth, but the primary economic driver is the high cost of land in central areas.