What is the difference between a population showing exponential growth and a population showing logistic growth? (Site 1)
Exponential growth refers to a population that is increasing at a constant rate without any limits to its growth. In contrast, logistic growth refers to a population that initially grows exponentially but then slows down and eventually levels off at a carrying capacity, or the maximum number of individuals that the environment can support. In other words, logistic growth takes into account the constraints of limited resources and environmental factors that ultimately limit population growth.
Step 1: Exponential growth is a type of population growth where the population size multiplies by a constant factor over a period of time. In this type of growth, the population increases continuously without any limiting factors affecting its growth.
Step 2: On the other hand, logistic growth is a type of population growth that takes into account limiting factors. Initially, the population grows exponentially but eventually levels off and stabilizes due to factors such as limited resources, competition for those resources, or predation.
Step 3: Exponential growth follows a J-shaped curve, where the population size increases rapidly over time. In contrast, logistic growth follows an S-shaped curve, where the population initially exhibits exponential growth but reaches a carrying capacity, or the maximum number of individuals the environment can sustainably support.
Step 4: The J-shaped curve of exponential growth represents an unbounded population increasing without constraints, while the S-shaped curve of logistic growth represents a population reaching equilibrium with its environment.
Step 5: In summary, the main difference between a population showing exponential growth and a population showing logistic growth is that exponential growth occurs without limitations, whereas logistic growth takes into account limiting factors and stabilizes at a sustainable carrying capacity.