Question

pt uses data from the US Census to visualize where whites and blacks live in different cities. Figu… # The Racial Divide The website http://vallandin gham.me/racial_divide/#pt uses data from the US Census to visualize where whites and blacks live in different cities. Figure 2.98 gives a heat map of all the census tracks in St. Louis, with each track colored according to the racial composition (white to black). Also, the space between tracks is shown proportional to the change in racial composition between neighboring tracks. Comment on what you see.

Short answer

The answer cannot be provided without access to the actual heat map. However, if based on the steps above, the conclusion may be drawn about the specific distribution and any possible racial segregation in the city of St. Louis.

Step-by-step solution

Initial Observation

Start by observing the heat map. Note the general color patterns, the distribution of the tracks, and how the colors change from one track to the next. Note if there are obvious clusters of similar colors, if the color change is gradual or abrupt, and any other patterns that stand out.

Analyzing the Color Scheme

Remember that the color scheme of the map ranges from 'white' to 'black', which in this context denotes the racial composition of each census track. White color indicates areas primarily inhabited by white people, black color indicates areas primarily inhabited by black people. Analyze where these areas are and if there are transition zones.

Analyzing the Spaces

The space between the tracks represents the change in racial composition between neighboring tracks. Large spaces therefore indicate a sudden change, i.e., neighboring areas have vastly different racial compositions. Small spaces denote a more gradual change. Check if there are such abrupt changes, where they occur, and if they correspond to any geographical features, like rivers, highways or certain neighborhoods.

Formulating the Observations

Use your observations from the previous steps to describe the racial distribution in the city. Are there areas with higher concentration of black or white residents? If yes, where are they located? Is there racial segregation, and if so, to what extent and where?