What does the term "urbanization" refer to?

The term "urbanization" specifically refers to the transformation of rural areas into urban areas. This process involves an increase in the population and development of cities, as people migrate from rural environments to urban settings in search of better job opportunities, improved living conditions, and access to services. Urbanization is a significant aspect of societal change, often linked to economic development and modernization.

The other concepts presented do not accurately define urbanization. The transition from industrial to service-based economies focuses on economic changes rather than the geographical and demographic shifts associated with urbanization. The reduction of population density in cities would contradict the very concept of urbanization, since urbanization typically leads to higher population densities as more people move into urban areas. Lastly, the expansion of agricultural practices is more related to rural development and does not pertain to the movement of populations from rural to urban spaces.