Question

Which of the following characteristics of a population is correct, if the population pyramid of that population has a narrow base and a tapered top?

• A. High birth and high death rate
• B. Low birth rate and low death rate
• C. High birth and low death rate
• D. Low birth rate and high death rate

Hint:

Remember the three main shapes of population pyramids: 1. \textbf{Expansive (Triangle):} Wide base → High birth rate (developing nations). 2. \textbf{Constrictive (Narrow Base):} Narrow base → Low birth rate (developed nations). 3. \textbf{Stationary (Rectangular):} Even distribution → Zero or slow growth.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
A population pyramid graphically represents the age and sex distribution of a population. The shape of the pyramid provides insights into birth rates, death rates, and life expectancy.
- The base of the pyramid represents the youngest age groups (births). A wide base indicates a high birth rate, while a narrow base indicates a low birth rate.
- The top of the pyramid represents the oldest age groups. A tapered top is normal, but a rapidly tapering top indicates a high death rate and low life expectancy. A less tapered top (more people in older age groups) suggests a low death rate and high life expectancy.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The question describes a pyramid with a narrow base and a tapered top.
- Narrow base: This directly indicates a low birth rate. There are fewer young people.
- Tapered top: While all pyramids taper, in the context of a narrow base, this shape (often called a constrictive or urn-shaped pyramid) is characteristic of developed countries with an aging population. This implies a low death rate and longer life expectancy, allowing a significant portion of the population to reach old age before the pyramid tapers.
Therefore, the combination is a low birth rate and a low death rate.
Step 3: Final Answer:
A population pyramid with a narrow base and a tapered top is characteristic of a population with a low birth rate and a low death rate.