Which term describes a significant rise in a population primarily in major cities?

Urbanization is the term that describes the significant rise in a population primarily within major cities. This phenomenon occurs when individuals and families migrate from rural areas to urban centers in search of better job opportunities, improved living conditions, and access to various services such as education and healthcare. As cities expand and develop, they tend to attract larger populations, leading to increased density and cultural diversity.

The process of urbanization has been a key factor in shaping modern societies, influencing everything from economic development to social dynamics and infrastructure. It often accompanies industrialization, as factories and services are mostly located in urban areas, further driving the influx of people into cities.

In contrast, the other terms do not accurately capture the essence of population growth in cities. Ruralization refers to the movement of people away from urban areas to rural ones, while suburban expansion describes the growth of residential areas on the outskirts of cities rather than a concentration within them. Population decrease indicates a decline in the number of people in a given area, which is the opposite of what urbanization signifies.