Question

question 23 of 25
a small population of wolves is introduced to an ecosystem. the graph shows how the wolf population changes over time.
which part of the graph shows the highest rate of growth before the ecosystem reaches its carrying capacity for wolves?
a. a to b
b. b to c
c. c to d
d. after d

Explanation:

Step1: Recall growth - rate concept

The rate of growth of a population on a population - time graph is given by the slope of the graph.

Step2: Analyze each segment

The slope of the graph from A to B is relatively small as the population is just starting to grow. The slope from B to C is the steepest among the given segments before the carrying capacity (the flat - part of the graph representing no further growth) is reached. The slope from C to D is decreasing as the population approaches the carrying capacity. After D, the population is at the carrying capacity and the growth rate is zero. So, the highest rate of growth before the ecosystem reaches its carrying capacity for wolves is from B to C.

Answer:

B. B to C