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Multiple Choice
Based on this population growth graph, which phase is characterized by the population growing at its fastest rate?
A
Decline phase
B
Lag phase
C
Exponential phase
D
Stationary phase
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the phases of population growth: The lag phase is the initial period where the population grows slowly as organisms adapt to their environment. The exponential phase is characterized by rapid population growth due to favorable conditions and abundant resources. The stationary phase occurs when growth slows and stabilizes due to limited resources or environmental resistance. The decline phase happens when the population decreases due to unfavorable conditions.
Identify the key characteristic of the exponential phase: During this phase, the population grows at its fastest rate because the birth rate exceeds the death rate significantly, and resources are abundant.
Examine the graph: Look for the section of the graph where the slope is steepest, indicating the fastest rate of population growth. This steep slope corresponds to the exponential phase.
Compare the other phases: Note that the lag phase has a flat or shallow slope (slow growth), the stationary phase has a flat slope (no net growth), and the decline phase has a negative slope (population decrease). These characteristics confirm that the exponential phase is the fastest-growing phase.
Conclude that the exponential phase is the correct answer based on the graph and the biological principles of population growth phases.