What are "metropolitan areas" characterized by?

Metropolitan areas are characterized by a densely populated urban core that serves as the focal point of economic, social, and cultural activities. This urban core is usually surrounded by suburban and possibly rural areas that are economically and socially linked to the urban center. These areas often experience significant daily commuting as individuals travel to the urban core for work, education, and other activities.

The defining feature of a metropolitan area is the interaction between the densely populated city and its surrounding areas, which might include residential neighborhoods, commercial districts, and green spaces. As such, the urban core tends to share resources and infrastructure with its periphery, creating a unique blend of urban and suburban lifestyles.

In contrast, the other answer choices do not capture the essence of a metropolitan area. One assumes equal population distribution, which does not represent the typical urban-suburban relationship. Another describes a fully rural area, while the last refers to regions focused solely on agriculture, neither of which aligns with the densely populated and interconnected nature of metropolitan areas.