To find the average density of the population in the given country, we need to follow a series of steps. Let's break it down step-by-step.
Step 1: Calculate the Total Population
First, we need to determine the total population of the country by adding the number of males and females together.
- Number of males = 46 million
- Number of females = 41 million
Total Population = Number of Males + Number of Females
[
\text{Total Population} = 46 \text{ million} + 41 \text{ million} = 87 \text{ million}
]
Step 2: Convert Total Population to a Standard Unit
Since we are calculating population density, it is often easier to work with numbers in a standard unit. Here, we will convert the total population from millions to individuals.
[
\text{Total Population} = 87 \text{ million} = 87,000,000 \text{ individuals}
]
Step 3: Identify the Land Area
The land area of the country is given as 173,000 km².
Step 4: Calculate Population Density
Population density is calculated using the formula:
[
\text{Population Density} = \frac{\text{Total Population}}{\text{Land Area}}
]
Substituting the values we have:
[
\text{Population Density} = \frac{87,000,000 \text{ individuals}}{173,000 \text{ km}^2}
]
Step 5: Perform the Calculation
Now, we will perform the division:
[
\text{Population Density} = \frac{87,000,000}{173,000} \approx 503.0 \text{ persons per km}^2
]
Conclusion
The average density of the population in the country is approximately
503 persons per km². Therefore, the correct answer is
A. 503 persons per km².
Explanation of Other Options
Now, let's analyze the other options to understand why they are incorrect:
- Option B: 351 persons per km²
-
This value is significantly lower than the calculated density. It may arise from an incorrect total population or land area used in the calculation.
-
Option C: 266 persons per km²
-
Similar to option B, this value is also much lower than the calculated density. It suggests a misunderstanding of either the total population or the area.
-
Option D: 237 persons per km²
- This option is the lowest and also incorrect. It does not reflect the actual population density based on the provided data.
Common Pitfalls
- Miscalculating Total Population: Always ensure that you add the populations of both genders correctly.
- Unit Conversion: Be careful when converting millions to individuals; ensure you multiply by 1,000,000.
- Division Errors: Double-check your division to avoid miscalculating the density.
Revision Summary
- Total population is calculated by adding males and females.
- Population density is found by dividing total population by land area.
- The correct answer is A: 503 persons per km².
- Always check calculations for accuracy and ensure proper unit conversions.