Population

Tracking the Trends

These questions correspond to this population information

Answer 1 question from each category

"A" Questions

  1. Why is world population continuing to increase rapidly, despite declines in global birth rates? Define "population momentum."
  2. Describe the general pattern of population growth today. Where is the majority of that growth occurring? Why?
  3. At current growth rates (constant fertility scenario) when will world population double?
  4. If current growth rates continue, what will world population be in 2050?

"B" Questions

  1. Define the "Green Revolution." How was it achieved? What some of were the major benefits of the Green Revolution? What were some of the negative impacts?
  2. Why is per capita grain availability decreasing, despite production increases? Why is grain production such an important indicator?
  3. Explain how, as nations develop, their diets and consumption patterns change. What are some of the resources necessary to support those changes? What are some of the potential impacts of these changes, both positive and negative?
  4. Discuss how climate change, availability of arable land and irrigation water, and production techniques could affect food production.
  5. What are some possible consequences of a significant decline in global food production? What are some possible consequences of a significant increase in global food production?
  6. How could food production be increased? Name several possible side effects of such an increase.

"C" Questions

  1. Explain the hydrologic cycle that provides the Earth’s renewable supply of fresh water.
  2. How does per capita water availability today compare to per capita water availability in 1970?
  3. What are some possible consequences of decreased water flows in rivers to natural systems and to people? How could that affect you?
  4. How many countries currently face water shortages to some degree? How many people are likely to face water shortages or scarcities by 2050? What are some possible consequences of decreasing water availability? How might this problem be addressed?
  5. Even though the US as a whole does not face water scarcity in the foreseeable future (although many local communities suffer from both water shortages and water pollution) how might water scarcity in other regions impact the US?