Final answer:
Around 50% of the population is likely to have heard the rumor when it is spreading the fastest in a sociology study on rumors.
Step-by-step explanation:
In a sociology study on rumors, the proportion of the population that is likely to have heard the rumor when it is spreading the fastest can vary depending on various factors. However, based on research conducted in the field, it is generally believed that around 50% of the population is likely to have heard the rumor when it is spreading the fastest. This estimation is based on the idea that rumors often spread rapidly within communities or social groups, but may not reach the entire population immediately.
It's important to note that this percentage is not fixed and can vary depending on the nature of the rumor, the size and demographics of the population, and the channels through which the rumor is spreading (e.g., social media, word of mouth, etc.). Therefore, different studies may yield slightly different proportions.