Describe how the geometric growth model is different from the exponential growth model. For each growth model, give an example of an organism that fits the growth pattern it describes. Explain why the organism fits the model.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The Answer is The geometric growth model and the exponential growth model are both used to describe population growth, but they have some key differences.

The geometric growth model assumes that population growth occurs in discrete, non-overlapping generations, with a constant rate of increase. This means that the population size at each time step is a multiple of the population size at the previous time step. In contrast, the exponential growth model assumes continuous, unlimited population growth, with a constant rate of increase. This means that the population size at each time step is a multiple of the population size at the previous time step, but the rate of increase is applied continuously.

An example of an organism that fits the geometric growth model is the bacteria E. coli. In a laboratory setting, E. coli populations can exhibit geometric growth when provided with a constant and abundant food source. This is because E. coli reproduce by binary fission, where one cell divides into two cells, and the population size at each time step is a multiple of the population size at the previous time step.

An example of an organism that fits the exponential growth model is the human population. In the absence of limiting factors, human populations can exhibit exponential growth due to advancements in technology, medicine, and agriculture. This continuous and unlimited growth is characteristic of the exponential growth model.

In summary, the geometric growth model describes population growth in discrete, non-overlapping generations with a constant rate of increase, while the exponential growth model describes continuous, unlimited population growth with a constant rate of increase. The examples of E. coli and the human population illustrate how these organisms fit their respective growth models based on their reproductive strategies and environmental conditions.

Describe How the Geometric Growth Model Is Different from the Exponential