Question

Two opposite forces operate in the growth and development of every population. One of them relates to the ability to reproduce at a given rate. The force opposing it is called as:
(a) Morbidity
(b) Fecundity
(c) Biotic potential
(d) Environmental resistance

Answer 1

Hint: There exist some factors which alter the development or depression of the population of every species. Growth and development are such things that are influenced by different factors. It is said that there are two opposite forces which are capable of influencing these two things. However, one of them was also able to reproduce at a given rate.

Complete answer:
The factor which is capable of limiting the increase in a population is called environmental resistance. In general, the factors include predators, disease, competitors, and lack of food, water, and suitable habitat.

The environmental resistance refers to all limiting factors in the environment that act on a particular population. Hence the opposing force is environmental resistance.

The rate at which a species reproduces with unlimited conditions is called the biotic potential of that particle species. This process generally includes unlimited food and water, safe habitat, and any other conditions that would endorse the successful replication of that precise animal.

Morbidity is the rate of disease in a population. The natural capability to produce offspring, measured by the number of gametes (eggs), seed set is known to be Fecundity.

Hence, the correct answer is option (D).

Note: The number of offspring a species can produce when they have ideal circumstances is normally described by the biotic potential. Not all individuals that are born can continue to adulthood or procreative age due to the factors that contribute to environmental resistance. Thus, we can say that the overall population of the species doesn’t grow hysterically but instead is limited and precise.