Materials and Markets

Definition

Materials refer to raw goods used in production processes while markets are places where buyers and sellers meet to exchange goods or services. In AP Human Geography context, "Materials and Markets" often refers to how geographical location affects access to resources (materials) and consumers (markets).

Analogy

Imagine you're making lemonade for a stand. The lemons, sugar etc., are your materials while the people who buy your lemonade represent your market. If you live in an area without lemon trees but lots of thirsty people passing by - that's an example of how geography impacts materials & markets!

Related terms

Supply Chain: This is the network between a company and its suppliers to produce & distribute products to final buyers.

Globalization: The process by which businesses develop international influence or start operating on an international scale affecting both material sourcing & market reach.

Commodity Dependence: When an economy relies heavily on exporting one type of raw material.