Chapter 4, Problem 28A

Summary Introduction

Introduction :

Any population grows exponentially when resources are abundant and density-dependent factors such as competition, disease, predation, and parasites are not effective enough to slow down the population growth.

Answer to Problem 28A

Correct answer :

The correct answer is option (D) 1500 A.D.

Explanation of Solution

Explanation/justification for the correct answer :

Before 500 A.D., population grew, but at a very slow pace. But, as there was a boon in agriculture, medicine and industrialization started and death rate decreased. The birth rate increased because of a large reproducing population.

Explanation for incorrect answer :

Option (A) 2 million years ago, humans started farming, and thus there was a slight increase in the population but not exponentially.

Option (B) 6500 B.C.: Human population was almost static in the New Stone age.

Option (C) 1800 B.C.: In this Bronze age period, the population was increased but at a very slow pace.