Final answer:
The statement that densely populated areas tend to have higher temperatures due to the heat island effect is true. This is due to urban structures absorbing more heat compared to natural landscapes, and it is a density-dependent factor that grows more severe with higher population density.
Step-by-step explanation:
Densely populated areas tend to have higher temperatures than surrounding rural areas due to the heat island effect. This phenomenon occurs because urban structures, such as buildings and pavements, absorb and re-emit more heat compared to natural landscapes. This effect can be considered a density-dependent factor, as it becomes more pronounced with the increase in population density within urban areas. Additionally, densely populated areas may experience various diseconomies including traffic congestion, air and water pollution, and overcrowding of public facilities and green spaces. Essentially, while cities and densely populated areas may offer economies of scale and economic advantages at first, the negative impacts, such as the heat island effect, tend to increase with population density. These impacts eventually counterbalance the economic benefits, leading to diseconomies that affect the quality of life and natural environment.