Populations

Front

What is a population in ecological terms?

Back

A population is a group of individuals of the same species living in a specific area at the same time.

Front

What is population growth?

Back

Population growth refers to the increase in the number of individuals in a population over time.

Front

What is carrying capacity?

Back

Carrying capacity is the maximum number of individuals of a species that an environment can sustainably support.

Front

What factors can limit population growth?

Back

Limiting factors can include food availability, water supply, habitat space, and predation.

Front

What is the difference between exponential and logistic growth?

Back

Exponential growth occurs when resources are unlimited, leading to rapid population increase, while logistic growth occurs when resources are limited, leading to a stabilization at carrying capacity.

Front

What is a tolerance graph?

Back

A tolerance graph illustrates the range of conditions (like temperature or pH) that a species can tolerate, showing optimal, stress, and intolerable ranges.

Front

What does the optimal range in a tolerance graph indicate?

Back

The optimal range indicates the conditions in which the species lives best and can thrive.

Front

How does the human population growth pattern differ from that of developing countries?

Back

Human population growth in developed countries tends to be stable or declining, while developing countries often experience rapid growth.

Front

What is the significance of biodiversity in populations?

Back

Biodiversity enhances ecosystem resilience, productivity, and stability, allowing populations to adapt to changes.

Front

What role does sunlight play in plant populations?

Back

Sunlight is a critical limiting factor for plant populations as it is essential for photosynthesis.