Physiological density represents the number of people per unit area of arable land. It is calculated by dividing the total population by the amount of land that is suitable for agriculture. For example, if a country has a population of 10 million and 2 million square kilometers of arable land, the physiological density would be 5 people per square kilometer of arable land.
This metric offers a valuable perspective on the relationship between population size and the availability of resources. A high number in this calculation can indicate that the land is being used by more people and may reach its output limit sooner than a location with a lower number. It is a significant indicator of a population’s pressure on its agricultural land and food production capacity. This is distinct from other population density measures as it specifically focuses on the land that can sustain agriculture, a vital resource for human survival. Studying it provides insights into potential resource scarcity and food security challenges within a region.
