Final answer:
The most accurate statement about the population density in North Africa and Southwest Asia is that it is higher in coastal areas and river valleys, due to water availability and the suitability of the land for agriculture.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that is most accurate regarding the patterns of population density in North Africa and Southwest Asia is: Population density in the region tends to be higher in coastal areas and river valleys. Rather than a uniform distribution across both urban and rural areas or a concentration primarily in mountainous regions, these areas have populations clustered where water sources and fertile land are available, such as along coastlines and river valleys. This is because water is a critical resource in these often arid regions, and such areas are more likely to support agriculture and attract human settlement. For example, in the Maghreb, most residents live in cities along the Mediterranean coast due to the proximity to water and the harsh conditions of the Sahara Desert interior. Also, in South Asia, the population density is higher in fertile river valleys where the land is arable and can support intensive agriculture. Moreover, the urbanization factor plays a significant role, as higher income regions have a greater urban population, creating a correlation between income levels and increased urbanization.