Which of the following is a feature of the population pyramid of a developing country?

1. Analyze the question You are asked which feature belongs to the population pyramid of a developing country.

2. Explain the concept A population pyramid shows the age and sex structure of a population. Developing countries such as Nigeria typically have:

• A broad base, because of a high birth rate (many children).
• A rapidly narrowing top, because of a high death rate and low life expectancy (few elderly people).
• A triangular, true pyramid shape.

Developed countries have a more column-like shape: a narrower base (low birth rate), and a wide top (long lifespan, low death rate).

3. Solution, option by option

• A. Long lifespan: This is a feature of developed countries, where healthcare is better. Wrong.
• B. Low birth rate: Developing countries have a high birth rate. Wrong.
• C. Low death rate: Developing countries usually have a high death rate because of limited healthcare, disease and poor nutrition. Wrong.
• D. Short lifespan: Life expectancy is lower, so fewer people reach old age and the pyramid tapers sharply at the top. Correct.

4. Answer The correct option is D. short lifespan.

5. Tip Remember: Developing = Broad base, Pointed top. High birth rate, high death rate, short lifespan. When you see "developing country" in a population question, think "many children, few elderly."