Which four properties do scientists use to predict population sizes?

Scientists utilize age structure, survivorship, fertility rate, and migration to predict population sizes because these factors provide critical insights into the dynamics of a population over time.

Age structure refers to the distribution of individuals among different age groups within a population. This distribution helps determine the potential for future growth: a population with a larger proportion of young individuals is likely to grow more rapidly than one with an older age distribution.

Survivorship is a measure of the number of individuals that survive at different ages, which can inform researchers about the overall health and longevity of a population. Understanding survivorship curves also aids in predicting how many individuals will reach reproductive age and contribute to future population sizes.

Fertility rate is a crucial metric that indicates the average number of offspring born to a female during her lifetime. Higher fertility rates typically lead to an increase in population size, assuming other factors are conducive to survival.

Migration encompasses the movement of individuals into and out of a population. This can significantly influence population size; for example, an influx of individuals (immigration) can bolster a declining population, while a mass exodus (emigration) can deplete it.

Together, these properties create a comprehensive framework through which scientists can analyze population trends and make informed predictions about