Question

exponential versus logistic population growth
two types of population growth patterns
may occur depending on specific
environmental conditions: an
exponential growth pattern (j curve)
occurs in an ideal, unlimited
environment. a logistic growth pattern
(s curve) occurs when environmental
pressures slow the rate of growth.

1. consider the growth curve of the wildebeest

population shown in figure 1. which of the following best describes this type of growth?
a. exponential
b. linear
c. logistic
d. geometric

1. predict what would happen to the wildebeest population in the long term given this type of growth.

Explanation:

• For question 6: The problem is about identifying the type of population growth. The options are exponential, linear, logistic, or geometric. Logistic growth (S - curve) is when environmental pressures slow growth. Exponential (J - curve) is in an ideal environment. Linear growth is a straight - line increase which is not typical for populations in nature. Geometric growth is a discrete - time version of exponential growth. Since the problem mentions "growth curve" and in real - world populations (like wildebeest), logistic growth is more common as resources are limited.
• For question 7: In logistic growth, the population will approach the carrying capacity (K) of the environment. In the long - term, the population size will stabilize around the carrying capacity. This is because as the population nears K, factors like limited food, space, and increased competition and predation will balance the birth and death rates.

Answer:

1. C. logistic
2. The wildebeest population will stabilize around the carrying capacity of the environment.