Which factor is least likely to influence the distribution of populations?

The least likely factor to influence the distribution of populations is social media trends. While social media can play a role in shaping opinions and behaviors within populations, its impact on physical migration or the distribution of people across geographical areas is relatively limited compared to other more tangible and foundational factors.

Historical events, such as wars, colonization, and migration patterns, have long-lasting effects on where populations settle and grow, influencing their distribution significantly. Topography, including landforms such as mountains, rivers, and valleys, affects accessibility, agriculture, and settlement patterns, thereby shaping population distribution over time. Resource availability is crucial because access to water, fertile land, and raw materials tends to attract populations to certain areas while repelling them from others.

In contrast, social media trends influence social dynamics and individual behaviors but do not directly determine where people live or settle on a large scale, making it the least impactful among the listed factors.