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: (1 point)

• Trade and transportation
• High agricultural productivity in these areas.
O Abundant desert landscapes in inland regions.
• Availability of freshwater resources.

• Availability of freshwater resources.

To determine the correct answer, we need to analyze the given options and identify the one that does not align with the reasons why large populations of people in East Asia live near rivers and the coast.

1. Trade and transportation: Rivers and coastal areas provide easy access to transportation routes and enable trade opportunities due to their proximity to ports and waterways. This is a valid reason for people to live in these areas.

2. High agricultural productivity: Rivers and coastal regions often have fertile soil and access to water, making them ideal for agricultural activities. This is another valid reason for people to settle in these areas.

3. Abundant desert landscapes in inland regions: This option mentions abundant desert landscapes, which suggests that these regions may not have rivers or coastal areas. While this may be true in some regions, it does not explain why large populations of people would choose to live near rivers and the coast.

4. Availability of freshwater resources: Rivers are a primary source of freshwater, and coastal areas may also have access to freshwater through rivers or underground sources. Having access to freshwater resources is an essential factor for human settlements.

Based on the above analysis, we can conclude that the correct answer is: Abundant desert landscapes in inland regions. This option does not align with the reasons provided for why large populations of people in East Asia choose to live near rivers and the coast.

The reason populations in East Asia live near rivers and the coast is not because of abundant desert landscapes in inland regions.