Question

Demography is the study of factors that affect \(\underline{\hspace{2cm}}\) and \(\underline{\hspace{2cm}}\) patterns. 
 

• A. Population density, dispersion
• B. Population size, dispersion
• C. Population density, distribution
• D. Population size, distribution

Hint:

Think of a national census. What are the two main things it measures? First, "how many people live in the country?" (population size), and second, "where do they live?" (population distribution). This is the essence of demography.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The question asks for the two key components that are studied in demography. Demography is the statistical study of populations.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
In both human sociology and population ecology, demography focuses on the characteristics of populations and how they change over time. The core aspects studied are:
\[\begin{array}{rl} \bullet & \text{Population size: The total number of individuals in the population. Factors affecting it are birth rates, death rates, immigration, and emigration. } \\ \bullet & \text{Population distribution: How individuals are spread out over a geographic area. This describes the spatial pattern of a population. } \\ \end{array}\] While population density (size per unit area) and dispersion (spacing of individuals relative to each other) are important demographic metrics, they are derived from the more fundamental concepts of size and distribution. The most comprehensive answer that describes the scope of demography is the study of factors affecting population size and its distribution patterns.

Step 3: Final Answer:
Demography is the study of factors that affect population size and distribution patterns.