Pearson Edexcel · A Level · 9GE0
Geography — Keywords & Key Terms — Definitions Glossary (2026)
Pearson Edexcel A Level Geography (9GE0)
Topic-by-topic keywords, key terms and definitions for precise exam language—separate from our revision checklists (topic coverage) and formula sheets (equations).
Keywords & Key Terms — definitions
Examiner-style keywords and definitions organised by syllabus topic. Terms are tagged Essential (start here), Core (typical exam standard), and Advanced for harder distinctions — tick each row when you can recall it. Your progress is saved in this browser for this list.
Pearson Edexcel A Level Geography (9GE0)
Pearson Edexcel A Level Geography (9GE0)
Pearson Edexcel A Level Geography (9GE0)
Pearson Edexcel 9GE0 (2026) covers dynamic landscapes, dynamic places, physical and human systems and processes, and an independent investigation (NEA) — blending physical theory, human geography, statistical analysis, and synoptic essays.
Mark schemes: Pearson rewards linked reasoning chains connecting physical processes to human consequences using named case-study detail and accurate data. Synoptic 20-mark essays require sustained argument and judgement. Statistical tests must state hypothesis, calculated value, critical value, and significance level. NEA mark scheme rewards methodology justification and reasoned conclusions.
Active recall: 0 / 17 terms ticked
| Recalled | Topic | Level | Keyword | Definition |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Physical systems | Core | Water cycle equation | Drainage basin balance: Q = P − E − T ± S where stores buffer changes in flow. | |
| Physical systems | Core | Carbon cycle | Stores in biosphere, lithosphere, hydrosphere, and atmosphere with anthropogenic flux changes. | |
| Physical systems | Core | Plate tectonics | Lithospheric plates move via mantle convection at constructive, destructive, and conservative margins. | |
| Physical systems | Advanced | Hazard risk equation | Risk = (Hazard × Vulnerability) ÷ Capacity links physical exposure to coping ability. | |
| Physical systems | Advanced | Sea-level change | Eustatic is global volumetric change, isostatic is local crustal rebound or subsidence. | |
| Human geography | Core | Demographic transition model (DTM) | Five stages tracking falling birth and death rates as countries develop. | |
| Human geography | Core | Dependency ratio | Ratio of dependants under 15 and over 64 to the working-age population. | |
| Human geography | Core | Urbanisation | Rising share of a population living in towns and cities, often via rural-to-urban migration. | |
| Human geography | Advanced | Gentrification | Influx of higher-income residents into deprived urban areas, raising rents and displacing locals. | |
| Human geography | Advanced | Burgess concentric model | Urban land-use rings: CBD, transition, working-class, middle-class, and commuter zones. | |
| Globalisation & development | Core | KOF Globalisation Index | Composite measure of economic, social, and political globalisation by country. | |
| Globalisation & development | Core | Human Development Index (HDI) | Composite of life expectancy, education, and GNI per capita on a 0–1 scale. | |
| Globalisation & development | Core | Lorenz curve and Gini coefficient | Graph and statistic measuring income inequality from 0 (equal) to 1 (max inequality). | |
| Globalisation & development | Advanced | Soft vs hard power | Hard power coerces via military or economic force; soft power attracts through culture and values. | |
| Skills & investigation | Core | Spearman's rank correlation | Tests rank-order correlation: rs = 1 − (6Σd² ÷ n(n² − 1)). | |
| Skills & investigation | Core | Chi-squared test | Compares observed and expected frequencies: χ² = Σ(O − E)² ÷ E. | |
| Skills & investigation | Advanced | Mann-Whitney U test | Non-parametric test comparing the medians of two independent samples. |
Pair this with our revision checklists, formula sheets hub and past paper finder.
Geography (9GE0) — Keywords & Key Terms FAQ
- What is on this Pearson Edexcel A Level Geography keywords and key terms list?
- It is a topic-organised glossary of important geography terms with short, exam-style definitions aligned to Pearson Edexcel A Level Geography (9GE0) (9GE0). It is designed for “define”, “state”, “outline” and “explain” questions where precise vocabulary earns marks.
- How should I use this Geography glossary alongside past papers?
- Tick terms when you can recall them without reading the answer, then check your wording against mark schemes. Pair vocabulary practice with past papers for A Level Geography (9GE0) so you apply terms in context.
- Is this the same as a revision checklist or a formula sheet?
- No. Revision checklists help you track which syllabus topics you have covered and your confidence—separate pages on Tutopiya. Formula sheets summarise equations and quantitative relationships. This page is only a definitions and key-terms glossary for Geography.
- Can I download this Geography keywords and key terms list for free?
- Yes. After a quick free sign-up you can download a UTF-8 CSV (opens in Excel or Google Sheets) or open a print-friendly page and save as PDF. Browsing the list on the page is free.
- Is this Geography list aligned to the 9GE0 specification?
- Topic groupings and wording follow Pearson Edexcel A Level Geography (9GE0) for Pearson Edexcel A Level. Always confirm final learning objectives and any regional options in your official specification and recent examiner reports for your exam session.
- Why focus on definitions instead of full notes?
- Mark schemes reward correct technical terms and clear links between ideas. A compact glossary lets you drill the exact language examiners expect for Geography at A Level, separate from longer notes or topic trackers.