Which of the following is the best definition of a formal region? (1 point)

a contiguous area on Earth's surface, with either a formal or loosely defined boundary, characterized by one or more similarities that make it distinct from other areas
• a region with a clear political or physical boundary or set of shared characteristics
• a region defined by how it is perceived by people, either by those within the region or by outsiders
a region defined by a uniting purpose, process, or function, including educational, economic, or civic purposes