This question was also popular with the candidates. The candidates were required to define natural growth rate of population, explain two positive effects of an optimum population and identify four benefits of a large population to a country in the (a), (b) and (c) parts of the question respectively. Most of the candidates were unable to adequately define natural growth rate of population in the (a) part but were able to sufficiently explain the positive effects of optimum population and the benefits of a large population to a country in the (b) and (c) parts of the question.  Candidates scored relatively high marks in this question. Candidates were expected to provide the following answer to score maximum marks in this question.

1. Natural growth rate of population is the difference between the birth rate and death rate.
2. 1. Optimum population brings about maximum output per head or maximum income per head of the population.
   2. Since income per head is maximum, standard of living may be at its maximum.
   3. Adequate supply of labour to exploit the natural resources is made available.
   4. There is no unemployment of labour and other factor inputs as they are fully utilized.
3. 1. Economic growth: A large population other things being equal may make possible increase in output of goods and services.
   2. Increase in the size of labour force: A large population may lead to an increase in the supply of labour.
   3. Increase in market size or population of buyers is made possible by large population, this increases the demand for goods and services.
   4. Increase in government revenue as a result of a large size of labour force which forms the tax base.
   5. A large population because it has a large market size may attract foreign investors.
   6. A country with large population is likely to attract more grants and aids.
   7. A large population is likely to have diverse types of skills which may aid economic growth.