Which of the following factors can affect the size and structure of a population?

• A. The color of the organisms
• B. Birth rate and death rate
• C. The atomic number of carbon
• D. The phase of the moon

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Begin by understanding the concept of population dynamics in biology. Population size and structure are influenced by factors that directly affect the number of individuals in a population and their distribution.
2. Step 2: Identify the factors listed in the problem and evaluate whether they are biologically relevant to population size and structure. For example, the color of organisms and the atomic number of carbon are not directly related to population dynamics.
3. Step 3: Focus on birth rate and death rate, as these are key factors in population dynamics. Birth rate increases the population size, while death rate decreases it. These rates also influence the age structure and distribution of individuals within the population.
4. Step 4: Consider other factors that might affect population size and structure, such as immigration, emigration, availability of resources, predation, and environmental conditions. These are not listed in the problem but are important to understand in the broader context of population biology.
5. Step 5: Conclude that birth rate and death rate are the correct factors from the options provided, as they directly impact the size and structure of a population. The other options, such as the color of organisms, atomic number of carbon, and phase of the moon, are not relevant to population dynamics.