[Campbell Biology P.1247] How does the per capita population growth rate, r K-N /K , behave i... | Practice Question

How does the per capita population growth rate, r K-N /K , behave in the logistic growth model as the population size N approaches the carrying capacity K , compared to the per capita growth rate r in an exponential growth model?

  • A: In both models, the per capita growth rate remains constant.
  • B: In the logistic model, it increases, while in the exponential model, it remains constant.
  • C: In the logistic model, it decreases, while in the exponential model, it remains constant.
  • D: In the logistic model, it decreases, while in the exponential model, it increases.

Explanation

The text states that in the logistic growth model, 'the per capita rate of population growth decreases as N increases' and 'When N is large and resources are limiting, then K – N /K is close to 0, and the per capita population growth rate is small.' In contrast, the exponential growth model has a 'constant per capita growth rate r '.