Which term refers to a large urban area consisting of at least two metropolises and their suburbs?

Study for the JCJC Sociology Test. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions with hints and explanations. Prepare for success on your exam!

A large urban region formed when two or more metropolitan areas and their surrounding suburbs grow together into one continuous zone is called a megalopolis. This term captures the idea of a vast, interconnected urban fabric with dense populations and strong economic ties spanning multiple cities—think of a long corridor where distinct metros merge into a single mega-region. The other terms describe different urban phenomena: gentrification refers to wealthier residents moving into historically less affluent neighborhoods; redlining is a discriminatory practice in lending based on neighborhood characteristics; population shrinkage means a decline in the number of people living in a city. Since the question asks for the term describing a sprawling urban area that includes multiple metropolises and their suburbs, megalopolis is the best fit.