Which of the following statements about human populations in industrialized countries is incorrect? a. Birth rates and death rates are high. b. Average family size is relatively small. c. The population has undergone the demographic transition. d. The survivorship curve is Type I.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the characteristics of human populations in industrialized countries. These typically include low birth and death rates, smaller average family sizes, and a demographic transition from high birth and death rates to lower rates.
2. Analyze each statement: Statement (a) suggests high birth and death rates, which contradicts the typical characteristics of industrialized countries.
3. Consider the meaning of 'demographic transition'. It refers to the shift from high birth and death rates to low birth and death rates, which is a feature of industrialized nations.
4. Understand the survivorship curve types. Type I curves, where most individuals live to old age, are typical of industrialized countries due to better healthcare and living conditions.
5. Conclude which statement is incorrect by comparing the typical characteristics of populations in industrialized countries with the statements provided.

Key Concepts

Demographic Transition

The demographic transition model describes the transition from high birth and death rates to lower birth and death rates as a country develops. This process typically occurs in four stages: pre-industrial, transitional, industrial, and post-industrial. In industrialized countries, populations usually experience lower birth rates and death rates, indicating they have completed this transition.

Survivorship Curves

Survivorship curves are graphical representations that show the number of individuals surviving at each age for a given species. Type I curves, typical of humans in industrialized nations, indicate high survival rates in early and middle life, with a significant drop in survival in older age. This contrasts with Type II and Type III curves, which depict different survival patterns.

Population Dynamics in Industrialized Countries

In industrialized countries, population dynamics are characterized by low birth rates and low death rates, leading to stable or slowly growing populations. Factors contributing to this include access to healthcare, education, and family planning. Average family size tends to be smaller due to economic considerations and lifestyle choices, which is a significant shift from pre-industrial societies.