Which of the following statement is incorrect with regard to population growth ?

Options

A. Population grow through births and immigration
B. When resources are limited , population grows exponentially
C. When resources become progressively limiting the growth patten logistic.
D. Intrinsic rate of natural increase is a measure of inherent potential.

Answer

To determine which statement is incorrect regarding population growth, we will analyze each option provided in the question.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understand Population Growth Factors**:
- Population growth can occur through two primary mechanisms: birth and immigration. Birth increases the number of individuals in a population, while immigration refers to individuals moving into a population from elsewhere.

2. **Evaluate the First Statement**:
- The first statement mentions that population growth occurs through birth and immigration. This statement is correct because both factors contribute to an increase in population density.

3. **Evaluate the Second Statement**:
- The second statement claims that when resources are limited, the population grows exponentially. This statement is incorrect. When resources such as food and space are limited, population growth does not continue to increase exponentially; instead, it slows down and follows a logistic growth pattern. Exponential growth occurs only when resources are abundant.

4. **Evaluate the Third Statement**:
- The third statement indicates that when resources become progressively limited, the growth pattern is logistic. This statement is correct. Logistic growth reflects the reality of limited resources, where the population grows rapidly at first but then levels off as it approaches the carrying capacity of the environment.

5. **Evaluate the Fourth Statement**:
- The fourth statement refers to the intrinsic rate of natural increase (r), which is a measure of the inherent potential for population growth. This statement is also correct, as it describes the potential growth rate of a population under ideal conditions.

6. **Identify the Incorrect Statement**:
- Based on the evaluations, the second statement is incorrect. It incorrectly states that population grows exponentially when resources are limited.

### Conclusion:
The incorrect statement regarding population growth is the second one: "When resources are limited, population grows exponentially."