Chapter 6, Problem 5STP

Summary Introduction

Introduction :

All species occur in groups called populations. There are certain characteristics that all populations have, such as population density, spatial distribution, and growth rate. These characteristics are used to classify all populations of organisms, including bacteria, plants, and animals.

Answer to Problem 5STP

Correct answer :

The correct answer is option (B) dispersion.

Explanation of Solution

Explanation/justification for the correct answer :

Option (B) dispersion. Dispersion is the pattern of spacing of a population within an area. It is one of the characteristics of population. The three main types of dispersion is uniform, clumped groups, and random. So, the correct answer is option (B).

Explanation for incorrect answer :

Option (A) density. Population density is the number of organisms per unit area. This property of population is not described as random, clumped, or uniform. So, this is an incorrect option.

Option (C) growth. An important characteristic of any population is its growth rate. The population growth rate explains how fast a given population grows. So, this is an incorrect answer.

Option (D) size. Population size is the number of individual in a population. It influences the chances of a species going extinct. Population size is not described as clumped, random, or uniform. So, this is an incorrect answer.