What does the term "sprawl" refer to in urban geography?

The term "sprawl" in urban geography specifically refers to the expansion of urban areas into rural lands without control. This phenomenon typically results from the unplanned and often rapid growth of cities outward into the surrounding countryside. It is characterized by low-density residential development, greater reliance on automobiles for transportation, and a lack of well-defined boundaries between urban and rural land. This uncontrolled expansion can lead to various issues, including traffic congestion, environmental degradation, and the loss of agricultural land.

In contrast to organized urban development, which aims for efficient land use and infrastructure planning, or systematic planning of rural development that prioritizes agricultural or rural needs, sprawl often occurs haphazardly, leading to negative consequences for both urban and rural areas.