# Economic Accessibility Gradient

## Definition

The gradual change in economic opportunity and market access as distance from major trade centres or transportation routes increases. Economic accessibility gradients create patterns of decreasing specialisation and development with increasing distance from market centres.

## Source Chapter

Book I, Chapter 3

## Context

Smith's analysis of how industry develops first along coasts and rivers, then extends to inland areas, and finally reaches remote regions, demonstrates economic accessibility gradients that shape patterns of economic development and specialisation.

## Economic Domain

Exchange

---
