Formation of the settlement hierarchy: Zipf’s law vs Central place theory

This study compares the possibilities and advantages of forming settlement hierarchy aсcording to Zipf according Christaller, starting from first stages systems development. The author found that minimum number levels required start formation Christaller distribution, bypassing distribution stage, for small values urbanization level was two: one, represented by one central place, rural settlements. With virtually same a at its initial in relation share urban population, latter give large maximum each place population area it serves lower costs system redistribution between existing settlements emerging certain stage evolution. At time, with an increase correspondence real rank-size cities ideal (according Zipf) decreases. established is kind two “immiscible liquids”: if based on stochastic processes, then second non-random, even deterministic ones. transition rather weak construct methodological logical respect.