Answer
At first, a population grows exponentially because at this time, resources are abundant. Individuals reproduce quickly while the death rate slows. As the population continues to increase, it uses up much of its resources, and the growth rate starts to slow. After a while, the growth rate becomes zero, and the population plateaus, staying at this rate for an indefinite amount of time.
Work Step by Step
At first, a population grows exponentially because at this time, resources are abundant. Individuals reproduce quickly while the death rate slows. As the population continues to increase, it uses up much of its resources, and the growth rate starts to slow. After a while, the growth rate becomes zero, and the population plateaus, staying at this rate for an indefinite amount of time.