4.2 Populations

Which factor primarily contributes to a decrease in the carrying capacity of an environment for a specific population?

A. Increased birth rates

B. Decreased emigration

C. Decreased availability of resources

D. Increased immigration

What is the primary difference between exponential and logistic population growth?

A. Exponential growth is rapid, while logistic growth is slow.

B. Exponential growth occurs in abundant resources, while logistic growth considers carrying capacity.

C. Exponential growth is seen in humans, while logistic growth is seen in animals.

D. Exponential growth is linear, while logistic growth is non-linear.

Which of the following scenarios is most likely to result in a population experiencing logistic growth?

A. A population introduced to a new environment with no predators.

B. A population with unlimited food supply and space.

C. A population in a stable ecosystem with limited resources.

D. A population experiencing high immigration rates.

How does emigration primarily affect population size?

A. It increases the population size.

B. It decreases the population size.

C. It stabilises the population size.

D. It has no effect on population size.

What is the effect of a population reaching its carrying capacity on birth and death rates?

A. Birth rates increase, and death rates decrease.

B. Birth rates decrease, and death rates increase.

C. Birth rates and death rates become equal.

D. Birth rates and death rates both increase.

a) Define the term "carrying capacity" in the context of population dynamics. [2]

b) Explain how carrying capacity can influence the growth of a population. [3]

a) Describe the main differences between exponential and logistic population growth models. [3]

b) Discuss why real-world populations might follow a logistic growth model rather than an exponential one. [2]

a) Identify and explain two factors that can influence the birth rates of a population. [3]

b) How can immigration and emigration affect the size of a population? [2]

a) Define the term "population dynamics" and explain its significance in ecology. [3]

b) Discuss how death rates can impact population size and structure. [4]

c) How do environmental factors contribute to fluctuations in population size? Provide an example. [3]

a) What is the role of immigration in population dynamics? [2]

b) Explain the concept of logistic growth and how it differs from exponential growth. [4]

c) Discuss the implications of exceeding carrying capacity for a population. [4]