Question

Now think about the logistic population growth model: at relatively low densities we expect the finite rate of increase to be _, and at carrying capacity we expect the finite rate of increase to be _.

Choice 1 of 5:about equal to 1; greater than 1

Choice 2 of 5:less than 1; greater than 1

Choice 3 of 5:greater than 1; about 1

Choice 4 of 5:greater than 1; less than 1

Choice 5 of 5:about 1; less than 1

Answer 1

In the logistic population growth model, the finite rate of increase is greater than 1 at low densities and about 1 at the carrying capacity, representing initial growth then stabilization.

Step-by-step explanation:

When considering the logistic population growth model, at relatively low densities the finite rate of increase is expected to be greater than 1; this means the population is growing as resources are abundant. As the population reaches the carrying capacity, the finite rate of increase is expected to be about 1, indicating that the population size stabilizes.

The carrying capacity, often denoted as 'K', represents the maximum population size that a particular environment can support sustainably. The logistic model results in an 'S-shaped' curve of population growth where initially, growth is close to exponential when resources are not limiting, but as resources become scarce, growth rate diminishes and eventually levels off at or near the carrying capacity.