Final answer:
The formula (1 - N/K) in population dynamics is a part of the logistic growth model that illustrates the proportion of unused carrying capacity and its impact on population growth.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the context of population dynamics and carrying capacity, the formula (1 - N/K) is a component of the logistic growth model. It represents the proportion of the carrying capacity that has not been utilized by the current population. Here, N stands for the current population size, while K represents the carrying capacity, which is the maximum number of individuals that the environment can sustain indefinitely. When N is small, (1 - N/K) is close to 1, indicating that the population can grow rapidly as it is far below carrying capacity. Conversely, when N approaches K, the value approaches 0, which slows down population growth significantly, showing that the carrying capacity limits further population increase. This principle is crucial for sustainable harvest management and understanding extinction risk within a population.