Final answer:
Geographers categorize regions into formal, which have uniform governmental or cultural criteria; functional, which organize around a focal point; and perceptual, which are subjective and based on people's perceptions.
Step-by-step explanation:
Types of Regions in Geography
Geographers classify regions into three types: formal, functional, and perceptual regions. Each type of region is distinguished by its own set of characteristics.
Formal Regions
A formal region is defined by government, physical, or cultural criteria that are relatively uniform across its expanse. An example of a formal region is the country of France, which has defined political boundaries and a dominant French language and culture.
Functional Regions
A functional region is organized around a focal point with a connected area influenced by that point. For instance, the area served by the London Underground transportation system can be described as a functional region, focused on the movement of people within the network.
Perceptual Regions
Perceptual regions are based on how people perceive or see the characteristics of a region, which can be subjective. An example is the American South, often associated with specific cultural, economic, and historic traits, though these may not be uniformly experienced by all individuals in the region.