Final answer:
The New England region is affected by its rugged terrain and soil fertility as you move north, influencing lower population densities and economic activities. The Southern New England area boasts a diverse economy, including manufacturing, tourism, and technology, while the Canadian Maritimes have harsher climates and poor soil quality.
Step-by-step explanation:
The New England region, which includes the northeastern corner of the United States, is affected by a variety of factors. Due to its history as the birthplace of America's Industrial Revolution, southern New England started with a focus on agriculture and fishing before attracting European immigrants to work in factories in the 19th century. However, as you move north from Boston, the terrain becomes more rugged and the soil less fertile, leading to a lesser population density in northern New England states like Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine.
Maine, for instance, is the most forested of the United States with about 90 percent of its land covered by forests, making its leading economic activity manufacturing, mainly paper and other wood products. The Northeastern Core is significant as well, encompassing dynamic economies and physical environments ranging from coastal plains to northern Appalachians and the Great Lakes area. This portion of New England offers a more diverse economic base which includes tourism, finance, healthcare, and telecommunications today, contributing to a robust economy and a highly skilled workforce.
The Canadian Maritimes, while possessing a much harsher climate and poorer soil quality due to glacial activity, transition from the rugged Northern New England. Despite these challenges, Western New England's mountainous regions have become attractive destinations for ski resorts, and its coastlines are sought after for summer vacations.