A broad-based, pyramid shaped age structure is characteristic of a population that is –

Options

A. Growing rapidly
B. At carrying capacity
C. Stable
D. Shrinking

Answer

To determine the characteristics of a population with a broad-based, pyramid-shaped age structure, we can follow these steps:

### Step 1: Understand Age Structure
- An age structure is typically represented in the form of a pyramid, which categorizes individuals into three groups: pre-reproductive, reproductive, and post-reproductive.

### Step 2: Analyze the Shape of the Pyramid
- A broad-based pyramid indicates a large number of individuals in the pre-reproductive age group. This suggests that there are many young individuals who are yet to reproduce.

### Step 3: Implications of a Broad Base
- When a population has a broad base, it implies that there are more individuals entering the reproductive age than those leaving it (post-reproductive). This leads to an increase in population size.

### Step 4: Compare with Other Population Types
- **Rapidly Growing Population**: A broad-based pyramid is characteristic of a rapidly growing population, as there are many young individuals who will soon enter the reproductive phase.
- **At Carrying Capacity**: A population at carrying capacity would have a more uniform distribution across age groups, not a broad base.
- **Stable Population**: A stable population would show similar numbers across age groups, indicating no significant growth.
- **Shrinking Population**: A shrinking population would have a narrower base, indicating fewer young individuals.

### Step 5: Conclusion
- Therefore, a broad-based, pyramid-shaped age structure is characteristic of a population that is **growing rapidly**.

The correct answer is **Option 1: Growing Rapidly**.

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