Question

the simple graph shows the relationship between available resources and population size.
population and resources
what evidence does the graph provide?
a. a decrease in the amount of available resources causes a decrease in population size.
b. an increase in the amount of available resources causes a decrease in population size.
c. a decrease in the population size causes a decrease in the amount of available resources.
d. an increase in the population size causes an increase in the amount of available resources.

Explanation:

Step1: Analyze the graph

The graph shows two curves: one for population (solid line) and one for resources (dotted line). As time progresses, the amount of resources decreases, and then the population also decreases.

Step2: Evaluate each option

• Option A: Just stating a decrease in resources is too simplistic. The key is the relationship with population.
• Option B: The graph shows a decrease in resources, not an increase.
• Option C: When resources (dotted line) decrease, the population (solid line) also decreases. This shows a causal relationship where a decrease in resources causes a decrease in population size.
• Option D: The graph does not show that an increase in population causes an increase in resources. In fact, as population might initially use resources (but the main trend is resource - population decrease relationship).

Answer:

C. A decrease in the amount of available resources causes a decrease in population size.