What is the key characteristic of an urban form that results from natural topography, limiting growth?

The key characteristic of an urban form shaped by natural topography and that serves as a limiting factor for growth is linear form. A linear urban form typically develops along geographical features such as rivers, valleys, or coastlines, allowing the urban layout to stretch in a line rather than spread out in all directions. This alignment inherently dictates the boundaries of expansion and density, as growth is constrained by the physical characteristics of the landscape.

For instance, cities that follow the contours of a river may expand upstream or downstream along the water body, but will encounter limitations from natural barriers such as hills or rugged terrain that surround them. This can create distinct patterns of development that are closely tied to the existing environment, making the linear form a direct response to the topography of the area.

Other forms, such as branch, rectilinear, or star, do not carry the same inherent limitations tied to natural topography. Branch forms may spread out in multiple directions but do not necessarily respond to a specific geographic feature. Rectilinear forms tend to follow a grid layout that may or may not consider natural landforms. Star forms can emerge from a central point but similarly lack the restrictive influence of topographical elements. In summary, a linear urban form is uniquely defined by