Which urban pattern is defined as a linear span with connecting arms?

The correct answer is the urban pattern known as "star." This pattern features a central core, typically representing the main area of activity or governance, from which various arms radiate outward. These arms can take the form of major transportation routes, pathways, or significant development zones extending into the surrounding area, mimicking a star shape.

This configuration facilitates efficient movement and connection by concentrating resources and attention at the core while allowing distinct pathways to develop in the radiating arms. It is an effective urban layout for integrating diverse functions, such as residential, commercial, and industrial spaces, while maintaining easy accessibility.

The other options refer to different urban patterns: the branch pattern organizes development in a more tree-like style with main routes that have branches extending outward but lacks the star's centralized structure. The radiocentric model is similar to the star but typically features a circular layout around the central area. The linear pattern suggests development along a linear axis without the radiating features characteristic of the star pattern.