Which of the following defines the stage of demographic transition ?

Options

A. Birth rate is higher than death rate
B. Death rate is higher than birth rate
C. Birth rate and death rate are equal
D. Both (1) & (2)

Answer

To solve the question regarding the definition of the stage of demographic transition, we can follow these steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understand Demographic Transition**:
- Demographic transition refers to the historical shift in birth and death rates in a population. It typically involves several stages, where both rates change over time due to various factors such as social, economic, and technological developments.

2. **Identify the Options**:
- The options provided are:
1. Birth rate is higher than death rate.
2. Death rate is higher than birth rate.
3. Birth rate and death rate are equal.
4. Both first and second options.

3. **Analyze Each Option**:
- **Option 1**: Birth rate is higher than death rate.
- This situation usually occurs in the early stages of demographic transition, where populations grow rapidly.
- **Option 2**: Death rate is higher than birth rate.
- This scenario typically happens in later stages, leading to population decline.
- **Option 3**: Birth rate and death rate are equal.
- This condition represents a stable population, often seen in the later stages of demographic transition where the population stabilizes.
- **Option 4**: Both first and second options.
- This option is incorrect since both cannot be true simultaneously.

4. **Determine the Correct Answer**:
- Among the options, the third option (Birth rate and death rate are equal) best defines a stable stage in demographic transition. This indicates a balance in population growth, which is a key characteristic of this stage.

5. **Final Answer**:
- The correct answer is **Option 3: Birth rate and death rate are equal**.