POPULATION PYRAMIDS What is a population pyramid A

POPULATION PYRAMIDS

What is a population pyramid? � A population pyramid is a pyramid shaped diagram showing the age and sex distribution of a population. Figure 1: A population pyramid.

Population Pyramids of Developing Countries. � The pyramids of these countries usually indicates a high birth rate hence the base of the pyramid is wider that the top. � The top of these pyramids are narrower indicating that there are fewer people in the older age group because life expectancy is lower. Such countries have a youthful population with a rapid growth rate. �

Figure 2: A population pyramid of a developing county.

Population Pyramids of Developed Countries. � The pyramids of these countries have a narrow base which means the birth rate is low. � The tops of the pyramids in these countries are wider indicating a longer life expectancy. � Such countries are said to have a slow population growth. � They are also faced with the issue of having an ageing population.

Figure 3: A population pyramid of a developed country.

Summary on Population Pyramids. � � � A wide base suggest a high birth rate, a youthful population and a rapidly growing population. A narrow base tells us that birthrate is low. Straight or near vertical sides tells us that the death rate is low.

Summary on Population Pyramids cont’d � Sides that narrow inwards from the bottom shows a high death rate. � Large number of people around the age groups 20 -34 indicates a high rate of immigration. � A small number of young people indicates high rates of emigration.