Population

The “Population” chapter delves into how people are distributed globally and the factors shaping these patterns. A key takeaway is that people are not spread evenly across the Earth, influenced by geographical elements like climate, landforms, soil, and water availability. Economic factors, such as industrial development and job opportunities, also draw people to certain areas. Social and cultural aspects, including access to housing, education, healthcare, and cultural sites, further influence settlement.
The chapter explains population density as a measure of crowding, calculated by the number of people per square kilometer. It also covers population change, analyzing increases or decreases over time due to birth rates, death rates, and migration. Finally, population composition is explored, encompassing characteristics like age, gender ratio, literacy, and occupation. The chapter concludes by addressing the challenges posed by rapid population growth, such as strained resources, unemployment, and environmental concerns. Overall, it provides a comprehensive understanding of human populations—where they live, why, how they change, and the societal and environmental implications.

Exercises

A. Fill in the blanks

1. _____ has the largest population in the world.

Ans : China

2. _______ is the number of deaths per year per 1,000 of the population.

Ans : Death rate

3. _______ is the number of years that a person is likely to live.

Ans : Life expectancy

4. Urban areas generally have a __________ population density.

Ans : Higher

5. A _________ is a diagram that shows the age and sex composition of a population.

Ans : Population pyramid

B. Choose the correct answer 

1. Which continent has the highest population ?

1. Asia
2. Europe
3. North America
4. South America

2. Which of these is an adverse effect of over population ?

1. Environmental degradation
2. Poverty
3. Unemployment
4. All of these.

Ans : All of these

3. Which of these is not a positive effect of under population?

1. Adequate employment
2. fewer taxpayers
3. Lesser environmental degradation
4. Lower levels of poverty

Ans : Fewer taxpayers

4. Which of these is a part of the demographic structure of a population ?

1. Age composition
2. Sex ratio
3. Rural and urban populations
4. All of these

Ans : All of these

5. Which type of population is shown in a bell-shaped population pyramid ?

1. Expanding population
2. Declining population
3. Constant population
4. None of these

Ans : Constant population

C. State whether the following are true or false 

1. In 2016 alone, the population of the world increased by more than 80 million.
Answer : True.

2. Immigration is a factor that can cause overpopulation.
Answer : True.

3. In rural areas, people are typically engaged in secondary activities.
Answer : False. In rural areas, people are typically engaged in primary activities.

4. An adverse sex ratio shows the high position given to women in society.
Answer : False.
An adverse sex ratio shows the low position given to women in society.

5. In a population pyramid, the youngest age group is shown at the bottom.
Answer : True.

D. Answer the following questions in brief

Question 1.
Define the term ‘population’.
Answer:
In statistics, a population refers to the complete set of individuals or items that a researcher wishes to investigate. This entire group possesses a common characteristic of interest. Typically, a researcher draws a smaller, representative sample from this total collection for detailed analysis.

Question 2.
Define population density.
Answer:
It essentially measures how concentrated a population is in a particular geographic space, typically presented as residents per square kilometer or square mile.

This measurement provides significant insights into patterns of human settlement and their effects. Elevated population densities are commonly observed in urban hubs and densely populated regions, signifying substantial human presence, extensive infrastructure, and potentially high demands on resources. In contrast, lower population densities are characteristic of rural, remote, or sparsely settled areas, suggesting reduced human influence and potentially greater per capita availability of natural resources.

Grasping population density is vital for effective urban planning, responsible resource management, and comprehensive environmental research. It enables authorities to strategically deploy services, plan for future housing and transportation requirements, and evaluate the ecological impact of human populations across diverse environments.

Question 3.
Distinguish between immigration and emigration.
Answer:
When an individual chooses to make a new country their permanent home, they are in the process of immigrating. This term refers to the act of arriving in a foreign land and commencing the establishment of a life there. Conversely, the act of departing one’s home country with the intention of becoming a permanent resident elsewhere is known as emigration. In essence, one immigrates to a country, and emigrates from a country.

Question 4.
Write any two causes of overpopulation ?
Answer:
Two key causes of overpopulation are:

1. Declining Mortality Rates: Advances in medicine and public health have significantly reduced death rates from diseases and improved life expectancy.
2. Lack of Family Planning Education/Access: Limited knowledge about and access to contraception and family planning methods can lead to higher birth rates, especially in developing regions.

Question 5.
Mention any two factors that cause population growth in a developed country.
Answer:

1. Immigration: Developed nations often attract immigrants due to better economic opportunities, higher standards of living, and stable political environments. This influx of people significantly contributes to population growth, often offsetting lower birth rates.
2. Increased Life Expectancy and Lower Mortality Rates: Advances in healthcare, sanitation, nutrition, and medical technology lead to people living longer and fewer deaths at younger ages. While birth rates may be lower, the reduced death rate means a larger proportion of the population survives to old age, contributing to overall population increase.

Question 6.
Mention any two factors that cause population growth in a developing country.
Answer:
Rapid population growth in developing nations stems from a confluence of factors. Enhanced healthcare, including vaccinations and treatments for infectious diseases, has dramatically lowered mortality rates, particularly among children, allowing more individuals to reach reproductive age and live longer. Simultaneously, societal elements like traditional values often favor larger families for social security or labor. This is frequently compounded by limited access to and awareness of family planning resources and information, leading to consistently higher birth rates.

Question 7.
What do the rural and urban population consist of ?
Answer:
Life in rural areas typically moves at a more relaxed pace, characterized by lower population densities and economies often centered around agriculture. These regions generally offer simpler amenities but foster close-knit communities.

In contrast, urban centers are vibrant and densely populated, offering diverse employment opportunities and a wide array of services. They are recognized for their rapid rhythm, sophisticated infrastructure, and heterogeneous populations, where individuals often experience a greater degree of anonymity.

Question 8.
What do you understand about the term ‘working population’?
Answer:
The working population of a nation includes individuals aged 15-18 and 64-65 who are able to work, encompassing both the employed and those seeking jobs. 

E. Answer the following questions in one or two paragraphs:

Question 1.
Write a note on the distribution of population in the world.
Answer:
The global population distribution is remarkably lopsided, with a significant majority of people clustered within comparatively small geographic footprints. This uneven spread is heavily influenced by a confluence of factors, including prevailing climate conditions, the ready availability of essential resources, and the presence of economic opportunities.

Consider, for example, the strong correlation between population density and access to fertile land and freshwater. Regions blessed with these attributes tend to support much larger populations, as they can sustain agricultural productivity and provide for basic human needs. Conversely, hostile environments such as arid deserts or frigid polar zones are sparsely populated, their extreme conditions making widespread habitation challenging. This is a direct consequence of the concentration of employment prospects, the development of robust infrastructure, and the general allure of city life, which collectively draw people in.

Question 2.
Briefly explain any four factors that affect the population of a place.
Answer:
The size and composition of a population are constantly shifting, influenced by a combination of key factors.A high birth rate fuels population expansion, while a sustained low birth rate, particularly when coupled with a low death rate, can lead to stagnation or even a decrease in population numbers. Cultural perspectives on family size, the accessibility of family planning resources and education, economic stability, and governmental policies related to childbirth and childcare all play a role in shaping birth rates. For example, nations with robust social welfare systems and higher levels of education for women often experience lower birth rates.

Conversely, the death rate, or mortality, measures fatalities per 1,000 people each year. A reduction in this rate, often a consequence of advances in medical science, improved sanitation, and better nutrition, contributes to population growth. In contrast, an uptick in the death rate, perhaps due to widespread disease, natural calamities, or conflicts, can result in population decline. The age distribution within a population is also a factor; societies with a larger proportion of elderly individuals will naturally exhibit a higher overall death rate.

When people move into an area, it’s called immigration, which boosts the population. Migration is spurred by a mix of “push” factors, such as war, persecution, or limited economic prospects, which compel people to leave, and “pull” factors, like promising job markets, political stability, or educational opportunities, which attract people to new locations. This movement can profoundly alter the demographics and labor force of both the regions people leave and those they settle in.

Finally, the prevailing economic conditions of a place significantly impact its population dynamics. In prosperous areas with a thriving job market, a higher standard of living, and well-developed infrastructure, people are more inclined to move in and establish roots, fostering population growth. Conversely, regions grappling with economic downturns, high unemployment, or scarce resources often witness a net outflow of individuals seeking better prospects elsewhere. Economic circumstances also indirectly influence birth rates—for instance, families might opt for fewer children during times of economic uncertainty—and death rates, as access to healthcare is often linked to economic development.

Question 3.
What is the impact of overpopulation ?
Answer:
Environmental Impacts

A larger population depletes resources like water and land, increases pollution (air, water, soil) from consumption and waste, and causes biodiversity loss through habitat destruction. It also intensifies climate change due to higher greenhouse gas emissions from increased energy use.

Social & Economic Challenges

Overpopulation can worsen poverty and inequality, strain infrastructure (housing, healthcare, transport), and lead to food and water scarcity. It contributes to unemployment, potentially sparking conflicts over dwindling resources, and increases health issues due to overcrowding and poor sanitation.Addressing these issues requires a multi-pronged approach, including promoting sustainable consumption, expanding access to education and family planning, empowering women, and investing in renewable energy and sustainable resource management.

Question 4.
Write the positive as well as negative effects of under population.
Answer:
It’s not simply about having a small number of inhabitants, but rather having too few for the area’s potential.

This demographic imbalance can bring about a range of consequences:

The Upsides of Fewer People:

Abundant Resources: With fewer individuals vying for essentials like food, water, and energy, there’s less competition, potentially leading to a higher quality of life for the existing population.

Reduced Strain on Infrastructure: A smaller population lessens the burden on public services such as roads, public transport, healthcare facilities, and schools, resulting in less congestion and overcrowding.

Lighter Environmental Footprint: Generally, fewer people mean lower overall pollution and less pressure on natural environments. This decreased demand for land can aid in preserving natural habitats.

Lower Unemployment: In some scenarios, a smaller workforce might lead to lower unemployment rates as there are fewer individuals competing for available jobs.

Increased Personal Liberty: A less dense population might experience fewer regulations and restrictions.

The Challenges of Underpopulation:Slowing Economic Growth: A diminished workforce can lead to reduced productivity, stifle innovation, and decrease consumer demand, ultimately hindering economic expansion.

Workforce Shortages: Businesses may face difficulties in finding enough workers to fill open positions, which can create production bottlenecks and impede economic activity.

Decreased Tax Revenue: Fewer people translate to a smaller tax base, making it harder for governments to adequately fund vital public services like healthcare, education, and infrastructure.

Service Closures: With fewer patrons, some businesses and public facilities might be forced to shut down, causing inconvenience and a decline in the overall quality of life.

Aging Population: Underpopulation can result in a higher proportion of elderly individuals compared to those of working age. This demographic shift can strain social security and healthcare systems, as a smaller working population bears the burden of supporting a larger dependent group.

Territorial Defense Difficulties: A smaller population can make it more challenging for a nation to defend its borders and maintain its sovereignty.

Erosion of Cultural Diversity: Smaller communities might struggle to preserve their cultural heritage, unique languages, and traditions.

Social Disconnection: Reduced population density can contribute to social isolation and loneliness, particularly in rural areas.

Unused Resources: With fewer people, a region’s available resources may not be fully utilized, leading to inefficiency.

Question 5.
Write the main differences between rural and urban populations.
Answer:
Rural and urban areas offer contrasting lifestyles. Rural life is characterized by low population density, an economy driven by agriculture, and a close connection to nature. Communities are tight-knit, the pace of life is slower, and traditions are valued. However, rural areas often have limited infrastructure and fewer job opportunities outside of farming.

In contrast, urban centers have high population density and diverse economies spanning many industries. They boast extensive infrastructure, including robust transportation and healthcare systems. While interactions can be more impersonal, cities offer a faster pace of life and are cultural melting pots. Ultimately, urban areas provide broader access to opportunities in education, employment, and entertainment.

Question 6.
What is sex ratio ? What is the meaning of favourable and unfavourable sex ratios ?
Answer:
Sex ratio, the proportion of males to females in a population (commonly males per 1000 females), reveals a society’s demographic balance, influenced by births, deaths, and migration, as well as social and economic factors.

A favorable sex ratio typically means a balanced proportion, often slightly favoring females. This stability (e.g., 950-1050 males per 1000 females) promotes social stability, a diverse workforce, and healthy family structures.

An unfavorable sex ratio signifies a significant imbalance, like a severe deficit or surplus of one gender (e.g., 1100+ males or 850- males per 1000 females). Such imbalances, often caused by gender-biased practices or imbalanced migration, can lead to widespread societal problems.

G Picture study.

Question 1.
What does the picture tell us?
Answer:
The picture tells us about a crowded street scene, likely in an urban area. 

• Large Crowd: The most striking feature is the sheer number of people filling the street. They appear to be walking and standing, suggesting a busy public space.
• Vehicles: There are some vehicles visible within the crowd, particularly what looks like a white van or jeep in the foreground and possibly other vehicles further back, suggesting it might be a street that also accommodates traffic.
• Buildings/Structures: On the left side, there appear to be buildings or structures, indicating an urban setting.
• Black and White Image: The image is in black and white, which might make it harder to discern specific details like clothing colors or exact features of the surroundings.

Question 2.
Mention any three impacts of such a condition.
Answer:
The image shows a densely crowded street, possibly during a procession, protest, or just a very busy urban area. The “condition” being referred to in the question is likely the high population density or large gathering depicted. Here are three potential impacts of such a condition:

1. Increased Risk of Disease Transmission: In densely packed environments, airborne diseases (like colds, flu, or more serious respiratory infections) and contact-transmitted illnesses can spread much more rapidly. The close proximity of individuals makes it easier for pathogens to transfer from person to person through coughing, sneezing, or direct contact.
   
2. Strain on Infrastructure and Resources: A large concentration of people in one area, especially if it’s a regular occurrence or an unplanned gathering, can severely strain local infrastructure such as roads, public transportation, sanitation systems, and waste management.
3. Safety and Security Concerns: High population density can present significant safety risks. There’s an increased potential for stampedes or crowd crushes, especially in emergencies or if crowd control is inadequate. It also complicates emergency response efforts, as it can be difficult for police, paramedics, or firefighters to navigate through the crowds. Furthermore, large crowds can sometimes be exploited for petty crime or, in some contexts, become targets for more serious security threats.

G Map work. On an outline map of the world mark the top five populous countries of the world.
Answer:

Extra questions

Question 1.
Define the following —

1. Birth rate
2. Death rate
3. Life expectancy
4. Family planning
5. Demography
6. Overpopulation

Answer:

1. Birth Rate: How many babies are born each year per 1,000 people.
2. Death Rate: How many people die each year per 1,000 people.
3. Life Expectancy: The average lifespan individuals in a group can expect.
4. Family Planning: Choices people make about when and how many children to have.
5. Demography: The study of human populations, looking at traits like age, gender, and economic factors.
6. Overpopulation: When a place has more people than its resources can sustainably support.
7. Underpopulation: When a country doesn’t have enough people to properly use its resources.
8. Population Pyramid (Age-Sex Pyramid): A chart showing a population’s age and gender breakdown.

Question 2.
List few countries with high population density (over population) and few with low population density (under population) ?
Answer:

Question 3.
Mention the causes of underpopulation ?
Answer:
Underpopulation, the opposite of overpopulation, occurs when a country or region doesn’t have enough people to fully utilize its resources or sustain its economy and social systems. Here’s a breakdown of its main causes:

Low Birth Rates

This is arguably the most significant factor. When the average number of children born per woman consistently drops below the replacement level (around 2.1 children per woman), the population will inevitably shrink. Several reasons contribute to this trend:

• Family Planning and Contraception: Easier access allows people greater control over family size.
• Education and Career Opportunities for Women: As women pursue higher education and professional goals, they often delay childbirth or opt for fewer children.
• High Cost of Raising Children: Economic pressures can make larger families seem unaffordable for many.
• Urbanization: City living is generally associated with smaller family sizes compared to rural areas.
• Cultural Shifts: Changing societal norms and a more individualistic focus can lessen the emphasis on having large families.

High Death Rates

While less common in modern underpopulated nations, historically, high mortality rates due to widespread disease, famine, or conflict could lead to underpopulation. Even today, severe epidemics or prolonged wars can cause significant population declines.

Emigration

A steady outflow of people, especially younger, productive individuals, can lead to a shrinking and aging population. This can be driven by:

• Economic Opportunities Elsewhere: People often leave in search of better jobs or higher wages.
• Political Instability or Conflict: Individuals may seek refuge or a more stable environment.
• Lack of Social Amenities: Limited access to quality education, healthcare, or cultural activities can prompt people to move.

Aging Population

Improved healthcare leads to longer lifespans, but persistently low birth rates mean fewer young people are entering the population. This results in an increasingly older population with a smaller proportion of working-age individuals and a larger proportion of dependents, contributing to a perceived underpopulation due to a shrinking workforce.

Historically Low Starting Population

Some regions or countries may simply have always had a relatively small population due to geographical constraints, harsh climates, or historical events that limited initial settlement or growth. While not a cause of decline, it can mean a region is consistently “underpopulated” relative to its potential.

Question 4.
What do you mean by composition of population or demographic structure? What is its significance? Name any two characteristics of a population.
Answer:
Population composition, or demographic structure, describes a population’s internal characteristics beyond just its size. It tells us “who” the people are based on attributes like age, gender, and more, offering a deeper understanding of a group’s social, economic, and cultural makeup.

This understanding is vital for planning and policymaking. It allows governments and organizations to:

• Allocate resources smartly: For instance, more elderly people mean a greater need for healthcare, while a younger population requires more schools.
• Anticipate future trends: Age distribution helps predict future birth/death rates, workforce size, and consumption patterns.
• Create targeted policies: Policies for education, healthcare, employment, and social security can be customized to specific population needs.
• Identify societal issues: Imbalances in gender ratio, for example, can highlight social discrimination.

1. Age Structure: This refers to the proportion of people in different age brackets (e.g., children, working adults, elderly).

Question 5.
What do you understand about the age composition of a population ?
Answer:
A population’s age composition, often called its age structure, details how people are spread across different age categories. Typically, these categories are split into three main parts:

• Children and Young Adults (0-14/19 years): This group represents the younger, dependent portion of the population.
• Working-Age Adults (15/20-59/64 years): This segment forms the backbone of a society’s economy, as they are its most productive members.
• Elderly (60/65+ years): Generally, this group comprises the older, dependent part of the population.

Grasping a population’s age makeup is vital because it reveals significant demographic patterns. These insights hold considerable sway over a society’s future, touching on its social, economic, and political aspects. For example, the age structure directly influences how resources are distributed for critical services like education and healthcare, affects the scale and vigor of the labor force .

Question 6.
What is the working population of India ?
Answer:
India’s large workforce, estimated at 643.3 million for the fiscal year 2023-24, is largely due to approximately 64% of its population being within the working age bracket..

Question 7.
What leads to an unfavourable sex ratio at some places ? Name a few social practices leading to it ?
Answer:
An unfavorable sex ratio, which signifies an imbalance between the number of males and females in a population, is a complex issue driven by a confluence of factors. While differential mortality—where one gender experiences higher death rates—can play a role, it is far less common as a primary cause compared to sex-selective practices.

At the heart of an unfavorable sex ratio lie discriminatory social practices. One of the most impactful is prenatal sex selection, often facilitated by modern technology such as ultrasound. This allows for the determination of a fetus’s sex, leading to the tragic abortion of female fetuses in cultures where a strong preference for sons exists. This practice directly reduces the number of girls born into a generation.

Beyond prenatal stages, female infanticide remains a grim reality in some regions. This involves the deliberate killing of newborn female infants, a horrific act driven by societal pressures and economic considerations that devalue female lives.

Furthermore, the neglect of female children subtly but significantly contributes to an unfavorable sex ratio over time. This neglect can manifest in various forms: girls may receive less nutritious food, have limited access to healthcare, and be denied educational opportunities compared to their male siblings. Such disparities can lead to higher mortality rates among female children, effectively reducing their numbers in the population and further skewing the sex ratio.

In essence, an unfavorable sex ratio is largely a societal construct, reflecting deep-seated gender biases and the systematic devaluation of female lives. Addressing this imbalance requires a multi-pronged approach that tackles the root causes of discrimination, promotes gender equality, and ensures the safety and well-being of all children, regardless of their sex.

Question 8.
Name one scheme launched by the government of India that works towards generating awareness and improving the efficiency of welfare services meant for women in the country.
Answer:
The Indian government’s Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) initiative stands out as a key program designed to not only foster awareness but also to enhance the delivery of welfare services specifically for women. While its core mission centers on tackling the worrying decline in the Child Sex Ratio and championing girls’ education, a substantial portion of BBBP’s efforts are dedicated to widespread public awareness campaigns. These campaigns cover crucial topics such as women’s fundamental rights, their health needs, and how to access various government welfare schemes. The program operates with a strong grassroots focus, striving to reshape societal attitudes and ensure that existing provisions – including those for health, nutrition, and safety – effectively reach and benefit women across the country.

Question 9.
What is the most effective way to show the age and sex structure of a population ?
Answer:
A population pyramid offers the most effective visual representation of a population’s age and sex structure. This graphical tool distinctly shows the distribution across age groups and by gender, usually with males on one side and females on the other, and age advancing upwards. The pyramid’s form directly reveals insights into past, current, and projected demographic patterns, including birth and death rates, and dependency ratios.

Question 10.
Explain the diagram of a population pyramid. Also show the three types of pyramids.
Answer:
Males are typically displayed on the left side and females on the right. The youngest age groups form the wide base, while the oldest groups narrow towards the apex. The overall shape of the pyramid offers insights into a population’s characteristics and growth trends.

There are three primary types of population pyramids:

• Expanding Population: This pyramid type is characterized by a broad base and a progressively narrower top, resembling a triangle. The wide base signifies a large proportion of young individuals, indicating a high birth rate. The sharp decline towards the top suggests high mortality rates among older age groups. This shape points to rapid population growth. Examples of countries exhibiting this pattern include Bangladesh, India, Mexico, and Nigeria.
  
• Constant Population: A bell-shaped pyramid with a narrower top and a wider middle section across several age bars typifies a constant population. This configuration indicates that birth rates are roughly balanced with death rates, resulting in a relatively stable population size with consistent percentages of males and females across age groups. Developed nations, such as the United States, commonly display this type of pyramid.
  
• Declining Population: This pyramid has a constricted base, a more pronounced bulge in the middle, and a slightly tapered apex. The narrow base reflects a low birth rate, while the bulging middle suggests low death rates, particularly in the middle age groups. Countries like Japan, Germany, and Italy typically exhibit this pyramid shape, indicative of a population that is shrinking.

Question 11.
Why is it important to study the population ?
Answer:
Studying population is crucial because it helps us understand the dynamics of human societies. We can gain insights into:

• Resource Allocation and Planning: Knowing the size, distribution, and characteristics of a population helps governments and organizations plan for essential services like healthcare, education, housing, and infrastructure development.
• Economic Development: Population trends impact labor markets, consumption patterns, and overall economic growth. Understanding these helps in formulating effective economic policies.
• Social Challenges: It highlights issues like aging populations, rapid urbanization, or population decline, which can lead to specific social, economic, and environmental challenges.
• Public Health: Population studies are vital for identifying health disparities, tracking disease patterns, and developing targeted public health interventions.
• Environmental Impact: Population size and consumption patterns significantly influence environmental pressures and resource depletion. Studying this helps in sustainable development efforts

12. Fill in the blanks

1. _______refers to all the people who live in a particular area.

Ans : Population

2. At present, the population of the world stands at ____billion.

Ans : 7.35

3. The second most populated country in the world is ______.

Ans : India.

4. Continent-wise, Asia has the largest population, followed by ______.

Ans : Africa

5. India’s most populous city is______.

Ans : Mumbai.

6. _________refers to the number of people living in a unit area of space.

Ans : Population Density

7. In ________condition, the number of people in a particular area is more than the available resources

Ans : Overpopulation

8. _______ The population puts less pressure on the environment.

Ans : Under

9. Sex ratio of 940 means there are ___ girls for every ____ boys.

Ans : 940,1000

10. The sex ratio is usually unfavourable in those countries where ______is widespread.

Ans : Gender discrimination

11. The average sex ratio in the world is ____females to every 1000 males.

Ans : 982

12. ________ in Europe has the highest sex ratio with 1179 females for every 1000 males.

Ans : Latvia

13. _______ shaped population pyramid indicates rapid population growth.

Ans : Triangular

14. Not being able to have babies or produce young ones is called ______.

Ans : Infertility

15. In India 69 % of the population is rural and_______.

Ans : 31 % urban