Final answer:
Breastfeeding and lactation is a natural process in which a mother produces milk to nourish her infant. The benefit-cost ratio determines when a mother should stop producing milk, and the offspring should continue to nurse until their ratio reaches a certain point. Milk production can continue for years but is reabsorbed if breastfeeding is stopped for approximately 1 week.
Step-by-step explanation:
Breastfeeding and lactation is a natural process in which a mother produces milk to nourish her infant.
The benefit-cost ratio determines when a mother should stop producing milk. The mother should stop when the benefit to cost ratio reaches a certain point, which is not specified in the question. The offspring should continue to nurse until their benefit-cost ratio reaches a certain point, which is also not specified in the question. When half-siblings are involved, the ratio is extended to include the benefits and costs for multiple offspring.
Milk production varies throughout the breastfeeding period, and a mother can continue to lactate for years. However, if breastfeeding is stopped for approximately 1 week, any remaining milk will be reabsorbed, and no more will be produced.