Question

both graphs below represent different population growth models.
in graph 1, there are no external factors acting on the population. what is the most likely factor causing the change seen in
graph 2?
a the limitation of genetic diversity
b the maximum rate of reproduction
c the limited amount of available resources
d the maximum rate of adapation

Explanation:

Graph 1 represents exponential growth (no external factors limiting growth initially). Graph 2 shows a decline after an initial phase. Limited resources (a key concept in population ecology - a sub - field of Biology in Natural Science) can cause a population to decline after an initial growth as competition for resources (like food, water, space) intensifies. Genetic diversity (A) affects a population's long - term survival and adaptability but is not the immediate cause of the decline shown. The maximum rate of reproduction (B) is a characteristic of a population's biotic potential and does not explain the decline. The maximum rate of adaptation (D) is related to evolutionary processes over time and not the immediate cause of the population change in Graph 2.

Answer:

C. The limited amount of available resources