---
title: "Density Independent Factors — AP Enviro Definition & Exam Guide"
description: "Density independent factors limit populations no matter how many individuals are present, like storms or droughts. Key to AP Enviro Unit 3 population dynamics."
canonical: "https://fiveable.me/ap-enviro/key-terms/density-independent-factors"
type: "key-term"
subject: "AP Environmental Science"
---

# Density Independent Factors — AP Enviro Definition & Exam Guide

## Definition

Density independent factors are environmental factors that affect populations regardless of their density. These factors include natural disasters, climate change, and pollution.

## Related Study Guides

- [3.8 Human Population Dynamics](/ap-enviro/unit-3/human-population-dynamics/study-guide/g1a8MMUTre14Qa5OfsU1)

## Review

### Related Terms

- Abiotic Factors: Abiotic factors are non-living components of an ecosystem that can influence populations, such as temperature and sunlight.
- Disruption Events: Disruption events refer to sudden disturbances in an ecosystem caused by natural disasters or human activities.
- Extinction Events: Extinction events occur when large numbers of species go extinct within a relatively short period due to catastrophic events like asteroid impacts or volcanic eruptions.