Question

Often the growth cycle of one population has an effect on the cycle of another. As moose populations increase, wolf populations also increase. Thus, if we are considering the logistic equation for the wolf population,ΔN/Δt=rN(K−N)K, which of the factors accounts for the effect on the moose population?
A) r
B) N
C) rN
D) K
E) dt

Answer 1

Answer:

The correct answer is option D) "K".

Explanation:

In this example the wolf population is described by the equation "ΔN/Δt=rN(K−N)K". Even tough the variables are not defined in the question, we can conclude that the effect of the moose population will be given by a factor that has a positive effect in the wolf's population because "as moose populations increase, wolf populations also increase". The factor "K" fits the description because it gives a positive effect on "ΔN/Δt". "K" is a factor that multiplies "rN" at two different levels, therefore the higher the value of "K", the higher value of "ΔN/Δt" will be.