Despite the devastation caused by flooding, large populations of people in East Asia live near rivers and the coast for all of the reasons below EXCEPT
Trade and transportation
High agricultural productivity in these areas.
Abundant desert landscapes in inland regions
Availability of freshwater resources.
Abundant desert landscapes in inland regions.
The answer is: Abundant desert landscapes in inland regions.
To determine the answer to this question, let's analyze each option:
1. Trade and transportation: Living near rivers and the coast provides easier access to trade routes and transportation networks. This is important for economic activities and connectivity with other regions.
2. High agricultural productivity in these areas: Rivers and coastal areas tend to have fertile soil, ample water supply, and favorable climate conditions, leading to higher agricultural productivity. This makes these areas suitable for farming and cultivation.
3. Abundant desert landscapes in inland regions: The presence of abundant desert landscapes in inland regions is irrelevant to the choice of living near rivers and the coast. This option does not explain why large populations in East Asia choose to live in these vulnerable locations.
4. Availability of freshwater resources: Rivers and coastal areas offer a readily available supply of freshwater, which is essential for various purposes like drinking, agriculture, and daily necessities.
By process of elimination, we can conclude that the answer is "Abundant desert landscapes in inland regions." This option does not provide a valid reason for why large populations in East Asia would choose to live near rivers and the coast.