S Curve

Definition

The S curve is a graphical representation of population growth that shows how populations initially grow slowly, then rapidly accelerate, before eventually leveling off due to limiting factors such as resource availability or competition.

Related terms

Exponential Growth: Rapid population growth that occurs when each individual produces more than one offspring on average.

Logistic Growth: Population growth that starts with exponential growth but slows down as it approaches the carrying capacity.

Limiting Factors: Environmental factors that restrict or control the growth, abundance, or distribution of organisms within an ecosystem.