Rapid population growth can result in large increases in the infant mortality rate if there is
A. a shortage of clean food and water.
B. a higher consumption of goods and services.
C. deforestation.
D. increased migration.
The answer is option A - a shortage of clean food and water.
To arrive at this answer, we need to consider the consequences of rapid population growth on various factors, such as resources and infrastructure. Rapid population growth puts pressure on existing resources, which can lead to a shortage of clean food and water.
To reach this conclusion, we need to analyze the effects of rapid population growth on each of the options provided:
A. Shortage of clean food and water: As the population grows rapidly, the demand for food and water increases. If there is insufficient infrastructure or resources in place to meet this demand, it can result in a shortage of clean food and water, leading to poor nutrition and hygiene, which in turn can significantly increase the infant mortality rate.
B. Higher consumption of goods and services: While higher consumption can strain resources, it doesn't directly relate to infant mortality rates. It may affect overall quality of life, economic stability, and environmental sustainability, but it is not specifically tied to the infant mortality rate.
C. Deforestation: Deforestation affects the environment and can lead to various problems, such as loss of biodiversity, climate change, and habitat destruction. While deforestation has consequences for overall health and well-being, it indirectly relates to infant mortality rates. However, the direct impact of deforestation on infant mortality rates is not as significant as the shortage of clean food and water.
D. Increased migration: Increased migration can have effects on health systems, social infrastructure, and resource distribution. However, it also does not directly relate to infant mortality rates. Migration may impact healthcare accessibility, but it does not directly address the root causes of increased infant mortality rates.
Therefore, option A - a shortage of clean food and water - is the most directly related consequence of rapid population growth that can result in large increases in the infant mortality rate.