Question

multiple choice 1 point
which of the following statements best describes carrying capacity?
carrying capacity can self - adjust depending on the size of the population, allowing for further growth
carrying capacity is determined by a variety of environmental factors, and represents the approximate maximum population size in an environment.
carrying capacity remains constant over time, regardless of changes to the environment.
when a population reaches the carrying capacity of its environment, limiting factors cause it to decrease to near zero.

Explanation:

Carrying capacity is determined by environmental factors (like food, water, space, etc.). It's not constant (so the option saying it remains constant is wrong). When a population reaches carrying capacity, it doesn't decrease to near - zero (so that option is wrong). And it doesn't self - adjust depending on population size for unlimited growth (as resources are finite). The correct concept is that it's determined by environmental factors and represents the approximate maximum population size in an environment.

Answer:

Carrying capacity is determined by a variety of environmental factors, and represents the approximate maximum population size in an environment.