High population density can cause increases in competition for resources, such as food and shelter. The table shows the number of zebras living in four different regions.
| | Population of Zebras | Area ($km^2$) |
| -------- | -------------------- | ------------- |
| Region A | 1,312 | 212 |
| Region B | 630 | 314 |
| Region C | 16,400 | 625 |
| Region D | 17,800 | 902 |
In which region is competition for resources likely the greatest?
A. Region A
B. Region B
C. Region C
D. Region D
Answer (1)
Calculate the population density for each region by dividing the population by the area.
Region A: 212 1312 ≈ 6.19
Region B: 314 630 ≈ 2.01
Region C: 625 16400 = 26.24
Region D: 902 17800 ≈ 19.73
Compare the densities and identify the highest: Region C has the highest population density.
The region with the greatest population density is R e g i o n C .
Explanation
Understanding the Problem We are given a table with the population of zebras and the area of four different regions. We need to find which region has the highest population density. Population density is calculated by dividing the population by the area.
Calculating Population Densities First, we calculate the population density for each region:
Region A: Population Density = 212 1312 ≈ 6.19 zebras per k m 2 Region B: Population Density = 314 630 ≈ 2.01 zebras per k m 2 Region C: Population Density = 625 16400 = 26.24 zebras per k m 2 Region D: Population Density = 902 17800 ≈ 19.73 zebras per k m 2
Comparing Population Densities Now, we compare the population densities of the four regions:
Region A: 6.19 zebras per k m 2 Region B: 2.01 zebras per k m 2 Region C: 26.24 zebras per k m 2 Region D: 19.73 zebras per k m 2
Region C has the highest population density.
Final Answer Therefore, Region C has the greatest population density of zebras.
Examples
Understanding population density is crucial in wildlife management. For instance, if we want to study the impact of zebras on the vegetation in a specific area, knowing the population density helps us estimate the grazing pressure. A higher population density might lead to overgrazing, affecting the ecosystem's health. Conservationists use this information to make informed decisions about managing zebra populations and their habitats, ensuring a balance between the animals and their environment. This concept extends to urban planning, where understanding population density helps in resource allocation and infrastructure development.
