Age structure
Definition
Age structure is the distribution of individuals among different ages in a population. It influences reproductive rates, mortality rates, and the potential for population growth or decline.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
- 1. Age structure diagrams, also known as population pyramids, visually represent the age distribution of a population.
- 2. A broad base in an age structure diagram indicates a high proportion of young individuals and potential for rapid population growth.
- 3. Inverted pyramids suggest a declining population with more older individuals than younger ones.
- 4. Stable populations typically have a more uniform age distribution across all age groups.
- 5. Age structure is crucial for understanding demographic transitions and predicting future changes in population size and composition.
Review Questions
- 1. How does the shape of an age structure diagram indicate potential changes in a population's growth rate?
- 2. What are the implications of having a large elderly population on a country's social services and economy?
- 3. Why is analyzing age structure important for predicting future human populations?
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Related terms
Demographic Transition: The process by which the age structure of a population changes due to shifts in birth and death rates over time
Population Pyramid: A graphical representation that shows the distribution of various age groups in a population
Mortality Rate: The frequency of deaths in a given population during a specific time period
