The dependency ratio of a country is the

Analyze the question: It asks for the meaning of the dependency ratio in Economics (a population topic).

Concept: The dependency ratio compares the dependent population with the working (economically active) population.

• Dependents: children (usually under 15) and the aged (usually 65 and above), who cannot fully work to support themselves.
• Active population: people aged roughly 15-64, who produce goods and services and support the dependents.

Formula:

Dependency ratio = (Number of children + Number of aged) ÷ (Working-age population) × 100

Evaluating the options:

• A. Children and aged who rely on the active population for support. This matches the definition exactly. ✔
• B. People cared for by extended families. This is a social description, not the economic definition.
• C. The active population depending on government. This is wrong, because dependents are the non-active group, not the active one.
• D. Only children who depend on their parents. This leaves out the aged, so it is incomplete.

Answer: Option A. (The wording of the question is a little awkward, since the dependency ratio is technically a ratio and not the group itself.)

Exam tip: Remember "Young + Old ÷ Working." A high dependency ratio means a heavy burden on the working population. This is common in developing countries like Nigeria because of the large proportion of children. Whenever you see "dependency," think of children and the aged.