37. Which of the following values is closest to the population density of people per square mile of land area only?

Answer: B

Explanation:

The population density of people per square mile of land area only is approximately 10.4.

The closest value to the population density of people per square mile of land area only is 10.4.

A) 9.6

This option is too low compared to the estimated population density. Given that the population density is around 10.6, a value of 9.6 does not accurately reflect the population density of South Dakota and is therefore incorrect.

B) 10.4

This is the most accurate estimate among the options provided, as it is very close to the stated population density of 10.6 people per square mile. It represents a reasonable approximation of the population density when considering land area only.

C) 10.8

While this option is slightly above the population density of 10.6, it does not provide an accurate reflection of the density based on land area only. Therefore, it is not the closest value and is incorrect.

D) 10.9

This value is also higher than the given population density of 10.6, making it an inaccurate representation of the population density of South Dakota. It does not align closely with the estimated density and is thus incorrect.

E) 11.6

This option significantly exceeds the actual population density of 10.6 people per square mile. It is too high and does not represent a close approximation, rendering it incorrect.

Conclusion

The correct answer, 10.4, is the closest approximation to the population density of people per square mile of land area only, as it is just slightly below the overall density figure of 10.6. All other options either fall short or exceed the estimated density, confirming that they do not represent the correct answer.