Question

The Industrial Revolution began with the invention of the steam engine. At about the same time, human population began increasing exponentially. Explain how these two events are linked to the idea that humans are able to change the carrying capacity of their environment.

a. The invention of the steam engine enabled people to use machines to carry out farming activities. The amount of available resources needed to sustain human life increased with the invention of machines. This increase in resources spurred exponential population growth.
b. The invention of the steam engine enabled people to develop pest-resistant crop varieties. The amount of available resources needed to sustain human life increased with the invention of machines. This increase in resources spurred exponential population growth.
c. The amount of available resources needed to sustain human life decreased with the invention of machines, but the carrying capacity increased. This increase in carrying capacity spurred exponential population growth.
d. The invention of the steam engine enables the environment to be changed according to the needs of the people. This regulation of environmental conditions spurred exponential population growth.

Answer 1

The Industrial Revolution, particularly the invention of the steam engine, enhanced agricultural and industrial productivity leading to increased human carrying capacity and a surge in population growth due to better resource availability.

Step-by-step explanation:

The Industrial Revolution marked a pivotal moment in human history, with the invention of the steam engine being a notable catalyst. This period was not only about technological innovations but also brought about a significant increase in the human population. The two phenomena are intricately linked as the adoption of machine-based manufacturing increased the carrying capacity of the environment by boosting agricultural and industrial productivity. As such, more resources became available, improving the standard of living and allowing more people to be supported within a given area, thereby spurring exponential population growth.

Specifically, steam-powered machinery led to advancements in agriculture, such as the mechanized seed drill and the cotton gin, which significantly increased the efficiency of farming practices. This surge in agricultural output meant that food supplies could support larger populations. In addition to this, the steam engine facilitated the growth of industries such as textile manufacturing and transportation, which created jobs and contributed to urbanization.