Replacement-level fertility
In a high-income country with low child mortality and no migration, about what total fertility rate is needed to keep the population stable over time?
Answer C: explanation for every choice
A
A rate of 1.0 would replace only one parent, so the population would shrink by about half each generation.
B
A rate of 1.5 is below replacement and is typical of many shrinking populations.
C
Correct. Each woman needs about two children to replace both parents, plus a little more to account for deaths before reproductive age.
D
A rate of 3.0 would lead to population growth.
TakeawayReplacement fertility is about 2.1 children per woman in low-mortality countries.
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Reviewed 2026-11-05 by a medical student. Spot an error? Report it with question ID ps139.