1. a. 30 years
b. 15 years
c. 12 years
d. The time it takes for the population to double is decreasing, indicating accelerated growth.
2. a. 1987
b. 2012
c. 2037
d. The time it takes for the population to double is increasing, indicating decelerated growth.
3. a. 1950: 2.5 billion; 1987: 5 billion; 2012: 7 billion; 2037: 9 billion
b. 1950: 4 billion; 1987: 6 billion; 2012: 7 billion; 2037: 8 billion
c. 1950: 1.6; 1987: 1.2; 2012: 1.0; 2037: 0.88
4. a. The carrying capacity is approximately 9 billion.
b. The population growth rate will slow down as it approaches the carrying capacity.
c. Factors such as technological advances, changes in resource availability, and environmental policies can alter the carrying capacity over time.
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of population growth worksheet answers.