What distinguishes expansion diffusion from relocation diffusion?

Expansion diffusion and relocation diffusion are both processes through which cultural traits, ideas, or innovations spread from one place to another, but they do so in fundamentally different ways.

Expansion diffusion is characterized by the spread of cultural traits while the originating population remains in place. This means that even as a trait spreads, it does so from a central point outward, enhancing the reach of the idea or innovation while maintaining its presence in the initial area.

On the other hand, relocation diffusion specifically involves the movement of people who carry cultural traits with them to new locations. This means that traits can be introduced to a new area when individuals or groups migrate, thereby establishing elements of their original culture in a different geographical context.

By highlighting that relocation diffusion features the movement of cultural traits to new areas, the correct answer addresses the distinct mechanism that defines this type of diffusion. It emphasizes that the process involves a physical relocation, which is a key aspect that distinguishes it from expansion diffusion, where the originating area retains the trait while it spreads outward.