Population Structure (Copy)
8.3 Population Structure – Cheat Sheet
Population Structure
- Population structure: shows age and sex distribution of a population, usually displayed in population pyramids.
- Useful to compare MEDCs (More Economically Developed Countries) and LEDCs (Less Economically Developed Countries).
MEDCs vs LEDCs
| Feature | MEDCs | LEDCs |
|---|---|---|
| Birth Rate | Low | High |
| Death Rate | Low | Falling but still higher than MEDCs |
| Life Expectancy | High (longer lifespan) | Lower |
| Population Pyramid Shape | Narrow base, more elderly → looks like a “bullet/urn” | Wide base, narrow top → looks like a “triangle” |
| Examples | UK, Japan | Nigeria, Bangladesh |
Population Pyramids
| Shape | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Broad Base | High birth rates, youthful population (typical LEDC) |
| Narrow Base | Low birth rates, ageing population (typical MEDC) |
| Wide Top | Longer life expectancy, large elderly population (MEDC) |
| Narrow Top | Low life expectancy, fewer elderly (LEDC) |
Quick Pointers
- MEDCs: stable or declining population growth, ageing issues (healthcare, pensions).
- LEDCs: rapid growth, pressure on resources (schools, jobs, housing).
- Population pyramids help governments plan services (schools for youth vs hospitals for elderly).
Written and Compiled By Sir Hunain Zia, World Record Holder With 154 Total A Grades, 7 Distinctions and 11 World Records For Educate A Change O Level And IGCSE Environmental Management Full Scale Course