Final answer:
Golf courses typically require more land than cemeteries due to their recreational design and the space needed for the different types of terrain within a golf course. Modern cemeteries have become more space-efficient compared to historical designs, using flat markers for ease of maintenance.
Step-by-step explanation:
When comparing the land acreage of golf courses to that of cemeteries, it's important to recognize the intended uses and historical development of these spaces. Traditionally, cemeteries were designed to be park-like, with elaborate monuments, which could be quite extensive in terms of space. However, these monuments and large individual gravesites have given way to more space-efficient lawn cemeteries with flat markers to allow for efficient maintenance.
In contrast, golf courses are large expanses designed for recreation, often featuring multiple types of terrain such as greens, fairways, and hazards. The aesthetic and functional objectives of golf courses inherently demand more land. Additionally, the landscape design of golf courses, which includes vast areas of carefully manicured grass, can be extensive and cover a greater acreage than the more utilitarian designs of modern cemeteries.
Furthermore, historical cemeteries, especially those from the 19th century, influenced the development of park spaces but were themselves limited in size due to maintenance costs and practicality. As both sports and recreational activities have become more popular across different societies, the allocation of land for golf courses has been substantial to accommodate this growth, potentially resulting in golf courses covering more land than cemeteries.