To understand past and predict future changes in populations, ecologists use the following important factors:

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The birth rate (A) is an important factor in understanding population growth, as it determines how many new individuals are added to the population per unit of time. Expected longevity (B) also plays a role in understanding population dynamics, as longer lifespans can lead to greater population density and longer intergenerational times. Finally, the proportion of individuals able to reproduce (C) is a critical factor in population growth, as only individuals of reproductive age can contribute to the next generation. The ratio of males to females (D) can also play a role in population dynamics, particularly for species with complex social structures or mating systems, but it is not as universally important as the other factors listed.

To Understand Past and Predict Future Changes in Populations, Ecologists