5.3

Population

9 flashcards to master Population

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Definition Flip

Define 'population' in economics.

Answer Flip

Population refers to the total number of individuals residing in a specific geographic area (e.g., country, region) at a given time. It's a crucial factor influencing resource availability, demand, and overall economic activity.

Example: the population of the UK is roughly 67 million people.
Key Concept Flip

Explain how birth rate and death rate influence population growth.

Answer Flip

Population growth is primarily determined by the difference between the birth rate (number of births per 1,000 people) and the death rate (number of deaths per 1,000 people). A higher birth rate than death rate leads to positive population growth, while the opposite leads to decline.

Example: a country with a birth rate of 20 and a death rate of 10 has a natural population increase of 10 per 1,000 people.
Definition Flip

What is 'net migration' and how does it affect population size?

Answer Flip

Net migration is the difference between immigration (people entering a country) and emigration (people leaving a country). Positive net migration increases population size, while negative net migration decreases it.

Example: if 500,000 people immigrate to a country and 200,000 emigrate, the net migration is 300,000, increasing the population.
Key Concept Flip

Outline the characteristics of an 'ageing population'.

Answer Flip

An ageing population is characterized by an increasing median age and a higher proportion of elderly people (typically 65+) relative to younger age groups. This demographic shift often leads to increased healthcare costs and a shrinking labor force. Japan is an example of a country with a rapidly ageing population.

Definition Flip

Define the 'dependency ratio' and explain its significance.

Answer Flip

The dependency ratio is the proportion of dependents (those under 15 and over 64) to the working-age population (15-64). A high dependency ratio indicates a greater burden on the working population to support the dependent population.

Example: if a country has 40 dependents for every 100 working-age people, the dependency ratio is 40%.
Key Concept Flip

Explain the concept of 'optimum population'.

Answer Flip

Optimum population is the size of the population that allows for the highest level of per capita output and standard of living, given available resources and technology. It is a theoretical concept, as it's difficult to determine precisely. A population exceeding the optimum may strain resources and lower living standards, while a population below the optimum may lack sufficient labor and demand.

Key Concept Flip

Discuss two economic consequences of rapid population growth in a developing country.

Answer Flip

Rapid population growth can strain limited resources like food, water, and housing, leading to shortages and poverty. It can also put pressure on education and healthcare systems, reducing the quality of these services.

Example: increased unemployment and lower wages due to a surplus of labor.
Key Concept Flip

Analyze two potential economic problems caused by an ageing population.

Answer Flip

An ageing population can lead to a shrinking labor force, potentially slowing economic growth. Increased demand for healthcare and pension benefits also puts a strain on government finances, possibly requiring higher taxes or reduced spending in other areas.

Example: Japan experiencing increased healthcare costs.
Key Concept Flip

Explain how government policies can influence population growth rates.

Answer Flip

Governments can influence population growth through policies such as family planning programs, which promote smaller families, or incentives for larger families. Immigration policies also significantly affect population size and demographic structure. For instance, China's one-child policy (now relaxed) aimed to curb population growth.

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5.2 Poverty 5.4 Differences in economic development

Key Questions: Population

Define 'population' in economics.

Population refers to the total number of individuals residing in a specific geographic area (e.g., country, region) at a given time. It's a crucial factor influencing resource availability, demand, and overall economic activity.

Example: the population of the UK is roughly 67 million people.
What is 'net migration' and how does it affect population size?

Net migration is the difference between immigration (people entering a country) and emigration (people leaving a country). Positive net migration increases population size, while negative net migration decreases it.

Example: if 500,000 people immigrate to a country and 200,000 emigrate, the net migration is 300,000, increasing the population.
Define the 'dependency ratio' and explain its significance.

The dependency ratio is the proportion of dependents (those under 15 and over 64) to the working-age population (15-64). A high dependency ratio indicates a greater burden on the working population to support the dependent population.

Example: if a country has 40 dependents for every 100 working-age people, the dependency ratio is 40%.

About Population (5.3)

These 9 flashcards cover everything you need to know about Population for your Cambridge IGCSE Economics (0455) exam. Each card is designed based on the official syllabus requirements.

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