Which of the following represents a demographic transition? a. A population switches from exponential to logistic growth. b. A population reaches a fertility rate of zero. c. There are equal numbers of individuals in all age-groups. d. A population switches from high birth and death rates to low birth and death rates.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the concept of demographic transition: Demographic transition refers to the shift in a population's birth and death rates from high to low levels over time, typically as a society progresses economically and socially.
2. Analyze option a: Exponential to logistic growth describes a change in the growth pattern of a population, but does not specifically address changes in birth and death rates.
3. Analyze option b: A fertility rate of zero would imply no births occurring, which is an extreme scenario not typically associated with demographic transition.
4. Analyze option c: Having equal numbers of individuals in all age-groups describes age distribution, but does not directly relate to changes in birth and death rates.
5. Analyze option d: This option directly describes the shift from high to low birth and death rates, which is the hallmark of demographic transition.

Key Concepts

Demographic Transition Model

The Demographic Transition Model (DTM) describes the transition of a population from high birth and death rates to low birth and death rates as a country develops economically. This model typically includes four or five stages, illustrating how societal changes, such as improved healthcare and education, influence population dynamics over time.

Population Growth Patterns

Population growth patterns refer to the ways in which populations increase or decrease over time, often characterized by exponential growth in early stages due to high birth rates and low mortality. As a population transitions through different stages of development, these patterns can shift to logistic growth, where resources become limited and growth stabilizes.

Fertility Rate

The fertility rate is a measure of the number of live births per woman of childbearing age in a population. A fertility rate of zero indicates that a population is not replacing itself, which can lead to population decline. Understanding fertility rates is crucial for analyzing demographic transitions and their implications for population structure and growth.