Which of the following is a factor of population growth?

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks which option is a factor of population growth, meaning something that directly changes the number of people in a place over time.

Step 2: Explain the concept Population growth depends on three direct demographic components:

• Birth rate (fertility): the number of live births per 1,000 people per year.
• Death rate (mortality): the number of deaths per 1,000 people per year.
• Migration: people moving in (immigration) or out (emigration).

The formula is:

Population change = (Births − Deaths) + (Immigrants − Emigrants)

When births exceed deaths, the population grows (natural increase).

Step 3: Examine each option

• A. Climate: This is a physical factor that affects where people settle (population distribution), not the growth itself.
• B. Relief: Landforms such as highlands or plains affect population distribution and density, not growth.
• C. Birth rate: A direct demographic factor. A high birth rate increases population size.
• D. Soil fertility: This affects farming and settlement patterns (distribution), not growth directly.

Step 4: Answer Only birth rate directly determines how fast a population grows.

Exam tip: Remember the difference between the two ideas:

• Population growth is driven by births, deaths, and migration.
• Population distribution is driven by climate, relief, soil, water, and resources.

If the question mentions "growth" or "increase," look for birth rate, death rate, or migration among the options.