Question

The age structure of a population influences population growth because

• A. Different age groups have different reproductive capabilities
• B. Younger females have more offspring than older ones
• C. Shorter generation time results in slower population growth
• D. More the number of immature individuals, slower is the population growth

Answer 1

The correct option is A

Different age groups have different reproductive capabilities

The correct option is A.

Explanation of Correct option:

Option A

1. Individuals who are capable of reproducing are those who contribute to population expansion.
2. Individuals in the pre-reproductive stage have yet to contribute, while those in the post-reproductive stage have finished reproducing.
3. As a result, the reproductive capacity of different age groups vary.

Explanation of incorrect option:

Option B

The maturity of the egg determines offspring, not the age of the mother.

Option C

When the generation time is shorter, population increase accelerates.

Option D

Immature individuals cannot contribute to population increase, hence population growth is dependent on mature individuals.

Final answer: The age structure of a population influences population growth because different age groups have different reproductive capabilities.