Examine the population pyramid. The left side shows the distribution of males in the population, while the right side shows the distribution of females in the population. Which of the following statements accurately represents a conclusion that could be drawn from the figure?

(1 point)
Responses

The Gambia has a significant number of missing females.

The Gambia has a significant number of missing females.

The Gambia recently entered stage 3 of the demographic transition.

The Gambia recently entered stage 3 of the demographic transition.

The Gambia’s population is likely to increase significantly.

The Gambia’s population is likely to increase significantly.

The Gambia has a low maternal mortality rate (MMR).

The Gambia has a low maternal mortality rate (MMR).

The Gambia has a low elderly support ratio.

1 answer

To accurately interpret the conclusions that can be drawn from the population pyramid based on the descriptions provided, we would need to analyze the specific characteristics of the population pyramid such as the width of different age cohorts, the ratio of males to females, and the overall shape. However, without the visual component of the population pyramid, we can make educated guesses based on common trends observed in population pyramids:

  1. Significant number of missing females: This typically indicates a possible gender imbalance, often due to cultural preferences, gender-based violence, or any other social issue affecting females. This statement might be accurate if the pyramid shows a significantly larger male population compared to females.

  2. Recently entered stage 3 of the demographic transition: A stage 3 demographic profile usually shows decreasing birth and death rates, characterized by a more rounded age structure. If the population pyramid displays a larger base (indicating high birth rates) and gradually lessens at older ages, then this may not be the accurate conclusion.

  3. Significantly increasing population: A broad base indicating high birth rates may suggest future population growth, while a narrower base may indicate stabilization or decline. Thus, this conclusion could be valid if the pyramid supports high birth rates.

  4. Low maternal mortality rate (MMR): A low MMR would typically correlate with a healthy female population and better healthcare systems. A population pyramid showing a normal female distribution might support this statement.

  5. Low elderly support ratio: A low elderly support ratio refers to the burden on the working-age population due to an increasing number of elderly individuals. This would generally be indicated by a narrower top in the pyramid.

To summarize:

  • If the pyramid exhibits an unusually low number of females compared to males, the first statement may be accurate.
  • If there are signs of a decrease in young population cohorts alongside aging, the second statement could be considered.
  • A wide base indicating a high number of children would support the third statement.
  • The fourth statement regarding low MMR might only hold if female age cohorts are represented adequately.
  • Lastly, if the population is young with a small percentage of elderly individuals, the low elderly support ratio may be accurate.

Based on common interpretations without the actual population pyramid for reference, if you have to select one statement, "The Gambia’s population is likely to increase significantly" would generally be a plausible conclusion if the pyramid indicates a high birth rate characteristic of a developing country.