What defines a population in geographical terms?

The definition of a population in geographical terms emphasizes the relationship between groups of people and their environment. The correct choice highlights groups of people who are living in a specific geographical area and exhibit a shared pattern of environmental adaptation. This concept indicates that these individuals interact with their surroundings in ways that influence their lifestyle, behaviors, and social structures. The geographical aspect focuses on the location and the shared environmental factors that shape the group, making it distinctly relevant to the study of geography and populations.

In contrast, the other choices do not focus on the geographical context in the same way. For instance, groups with common economic interests do not necessarily relate to their geographical location or environmental adaptation. Similarly, while animals residing in an area pertain to population studies, this option diverges from human demographics and adaptation patterns associated with the environment. Lastly, cultural backgrounds categorize groups based on social and cultural traits rather than physical geography or the characteristics of adaptation to a shared environment. Thus, the emphasis on environmental adaptation within the context of geography is what makes the second option the most appropriate answer.