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IB Biology SL 4.1.5 Population growth and carrying capacity Question Bank

Practise IB Biology SL 4.1.5 by explaining why populations grow and then level off at carrying capacity.

Syllabus
First assessment 2025
Course
Biology SL
Level
SL

Exam points

  • Explain why exponential population growth eventually slows.
  • Use population-growth data to identify carrying capacity and limiting factors.

C4.1.5—Carrying capacity question 1

[Maximum number: 1]

In 1789 Gilbert White, a naturalist, observed eight breeding pairs of swifts (Apus apus) in the English village of Selborne. On average, each pair of swifts produces two offspring per year. This would allow the population to rise to 1030 swifts over 200 years. A bird survey carried out in 1983 revealed only 12 breeding pairs in this village.

What could have prevented the numbers rising to 1030 ?

I. The number of nesting sites remained the same.
II. The food supply of the swifts remained constant.
III. Predatory birds in the area were exterminated.

A

I only

B

I and II only

C

II and III only

D

I, II and III

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