Which term most closely describes a model in geography?

The term that most closely describes a model in geography is "theory." In geographic studies, a theory provides a comprehensive framework that explains various phenomena based on empirical evidence and systematic reasoning. A theory is developed after extensive observation and testing, allowing geographers to understand patterns, processes, and relationships within the spatial context.

Models in geography often derive from theories, serving as simplifications that demonstrate how certain variables interact within a specific space or context. For instance, demographic transition models illustrate how population dynamics change over time in relation to economic development, and these models are grounded in broader theories of population growth and economic change.

While a hypothesis is a specific, testable prediction, a model provides a broader understanding informed by various observations and can be supported or refined by ongoing research. "Framework" and "concept" imply structure and ideas, respectively, but do not encompass the same level of integrated reasoning and systematic exploration that a theory represents. Thus, "theory" is the most apt descriptor for a model in geographic contexts.