How would you define "urban sprawl"?

Urban sprawl refers to the uncontrolled expansion of urban areas into adjacent rural land. This phenomenon typically involves the spread of residential and commercial development in a manner that is neither planned nor densely organized, often leading to a sprawling landscape characterized by low-density housing, increased reliance on automobiles, and the displacement of natural ecosystems.

The essence of urban sprawl lies in its lack of control and planning, which can result in various social, environmental, and economic challenges. It can lead to traffic congestion, loss of agricultural land, increased infrastructure costs, and greater distances between homes, workplaces, and amenities. Therefore, the correct choice accurately captures the nature of urban sprawl and its implications on the landscape and community planning.