A sprawling urban region formed when two or more metropolitan areas grow and merge together is a defining characteristic of a highly interconnected and developed area. Often referred to as a conurbation or megaregion, these extended urban landscapes are typically characterized by a high population density, extensive transportation networks, and significant economic integration. The Boston-Washington corridor in the northeastern United States, often called BosWash, exemplifies such a region.
The formation of these large urban areas has significant implications for human geography. It concentrates economic activity, creating centers of innovation and trade. Furthermore, it presents challenges related to infrastructure, resource management, and social equity. Historically, its development is linked to industrialization, population growth, and advancements in transportation technology which facilitate movement and communication across previously distinct urban centers.
