Population refers to the total number of individuals living in a specific area, such as a country, city, or region. It can be measured in various ways, including total count, density (number of people per square kilometer), and demographic characteristics like age, gender, and ethnicity. Understanding population helps governments and organizations plan for resources, services, and infrastructure. Population can change over time due to factors like birth rates, death rates, and migration. For example, urbanization often leads to increased population in cities as people move from rural areas in search of better opportunities. Monitoring population trends is essential for addressing social, economic, and environmental challenges.