A J-shaped growth curve depicts

Options

A. Exponential growth when conditions are limited
B. Exponential growth when conditions are unlimited
C. Logistic growth when conditions are limited
D. Logistic growt when conditions are unlimited

Answer

To answer the question "A J-shaped growth curve depicts," we need to analyze the characteristics of J-shaped and S-shaped growth curves in population ecology.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Growth Curves**:
- There are two main types of growth curves in population ecology: J-shaped and S-shaped.
- The J-shaped curve represents exponential growth, while the S-shaped curve represents logistic growth.

2. **Characteristics of J-shaped Growth Curve**:
- The J-shaped curve indicates that a population is growing rapidly without any limitations on resources.
- This type of growth occurs when conditions are ideal, meaning that resources such as food, space, and other necessities are abundant.

3. **Exponential Growth**:
- In exponential growth, the population size increases at a constant rate, leading to a rapid increase in numbers over time.
- This growth continues until environmental factors impose limits, which is not the case in the J-shaped curve.

4. **Evaluating the Options**:
- Option 1: Exponential growth when conditions are limited - **Incorrect** (J-shaped growth occurs under unlimited conditions).
- Option 2: Exponential growth when conditions are unlimited - **Correct** (This accurately describes the J-shaped curve).
- Option 3: Logistic growth when conditions are limited - **Incorrect** (This describes the S-shaped curve).
- Option 4: Logistic growth when conditions are unlimited - **Incorrect** (This is also not applicable to the J-shaped curve).

5. **Conclusion**:
- The correct answer is option 2: "Exponential growth when conditions are unlimited."