Final answer:
The main difference is that exponential growth is seen with unlimited resources, resulting in a J-shaped curve, while logistic growth is seen when resources are limited, resulting in an S-shaped curve reflecting a slow down and leveling off as carrying capacity is reached.
Step-by-step explanation:
The main difference between exponential growth and logistic growth is that exponential growth occurs when resources are abundant, leading to a J-shaped curve, while logistic growth occurs when resources become limited, leading to an S-shaped curve. In the context of populations, exponential growth shows a rapid increase as the size of the population itself adds to the growth rate, typically represented by a J-shaped curve. On the other hand, logistic growth takes into account resource limitations and the carrying capacity of the ecosystem, resulting in an S-shaped curve where population growth slows down and eventually levels off as the carrying capacity is approached.