In what way is geography described as an integrative science that connects different branches of knowledge?

Introduction / Context:
Modern geography is not limited to drawing maps or listing places. It is often called an integrative science because it combines ideas and methods from many different disciplines. This question checks whether you understand why geography has this integrative character and how it connects the physical environment with human society.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Geography studies Earth, including landforms, climate, resources and human activities. • The options describe links with physical sciences, social sciences and the combined physical human view. • We must choose the best description of geography as an integrative science.

Concept / Approach:
Geography has two broad branches: physical geography and human geography. Physical geography draws on disciplines like geology, meteorology, biology and oceanography to understand landforms, climate and ecosystems. Human geography uses concepts from sociology, economics, political science and cultural studies to examine human activities, settlements and patterns. Integrative science means geography brings together both types of knowledge and looks at how physical and human factors interact in real places.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Examine option A. It correctly states that geography borrows from physical sciences such as chemistry, biology, meteorology and geology. Step 2: Look at option B. It also correctly states that geography borrows from human and social sciences including cultural studies, economics and public policy. Step 3: Study option C. It says that geography examines Earth in both physical and human terms, which captures the central idea of integration. Step 4: Since all three statements A, B and C are true descriptions of how geography operates, the integrative nature is best summarised by the choice All of the above. Step 5: Therefore, select option D, All of the above, as the correct answer.

Verification / Alternative check:
Standard geography textbooks emphasise that geography is a bridge between natural sciences and social sciences. They describe physical geography, human geography and environmental geography as subfields that all interact. When you read about topics like climate change, urbanisation, or river basin management, you can see that both physical and human aspects are analysed together. This confirms that geography integrates all the elements described in options A, B and C.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Option A only: It is true but incomplete because it ignores the equally important human side of geography. Option B only: Also true but incomplete, because geography is not purely a social science. Option C only: Captures the core idea but does not explicitly mention the borrowing of methods from both physical and human sciences. Option E, None of the above: Incorrect because at least one, and in fact all three, of the earlier statements are valid.

Common Pitfalls:
Students sometimes think geography is only about maps and landforms and forget the human component, or they focus only on population and economic geography and forget the physical base. Another common error is to choose one correct statement and ignore that the exam often uses All of the above when every statement contributes to a complete definition. Always read each option carefully and check if combining them gives a fuller picture.

Final Answer:
Geography is called an integrative science because All of the above statements correctly describe how it connects physical and human knowledge.