Population growth dynamics; concepts of overpopulation, underpopulation and optimum population
Populations grow when births outnumber deaths. Geographers judge whether a population is too large, too small, or just right for the resources available to support it.
Real World
Niger has one of the world's highest birth rates (around 7 children per woman) yet falling infant mortality, producing a natural increase rate above 3% per year — its population is projected to triple by 2050 despite severe resource constraints, a textbook case of overpopulation pressure.
Exam Focus
Define overpopulation using both population size AND resource availability — answers that mention only numbers lose marks.
Essay Framework
Use PEEL to structure every paragraph. Tap each step for guidance and an example.
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