Which statement best describes urban sprawl?

Urban sprawl is best described as the mass expansion of urban areas that often leads to the rapid destruction of surrounding environments. This phenomenon typically occurs when cities extend outward into suburban or rural areas, transforming landscapes that were previously natural or agricultural. As urban sprawl advances, it usually results in various negative environmental consequences, such as habitat loss, increased pollution, and greater reliance on automobiles, contributing to traffic congestion and air quality issues.

The emphasis on rapidity and the impact on the surrounding environment is key to understanding urban sprawl. It signifies a shift from compact urban development to a more dispersed pattern, which often undermines ecosystems and agricultural viability in the nearby areas. This destructive expansion contrasts with sustainable development approaches that prioritize ecological balance and conservation within urban planning.

The other answer choices do not adequately capture the essence of urban sprawl, as they focus on slow growth, green space creation, or sustainable urban development, which are not characteristic of the rapid and often environmentally detrimental nature of urban sprawl.