What Results as the Size of a Population Approaches the Carrying

Question

What results as the size of a population approaches the carrying capacity of its environment?
A) The growth rate increases.
B) A graph of population growth resembles a "J."
C) The population stabilizes at its maximum size.
D) Birth rates become proportionally much greater than the death rates.

Accepted Answer

When a population approaches its carrying capacity, its growth rate slows down and eventually stabilizes at its maximum size. This is because resources become limited as the population increases, making it harder for individuals to survive and reproduce. Therefore, option C is the correct choice. Option A is incorrect because the growth rate actually decreases as the population reaches carrying capacity. Option B is also incorrect because a graph of population growth resembling a "J" shape indicates exponential growth, which is not sustainable in the long term. Option D is incorrect because birth rates do not necessarily become proportionally greater than death rates as the population approaches carrying capacity.