[C] Too many people on earth and a few rapid increase in the number added each year.
[D] A long period when death rates exceed birthrates and then a short period with higher
fertility and lower mortality.
59. During the first period of demographic history, societies were often in danger of extinction because ________.
[A] only one in ten persons could live past 40
[B] there was higher mortality than fertility in most places
[C] it was too dangerous to have babies due to the poor conditions
[D] our ancestors had little enthusiasm for more children
60. Which statement is TRUE about population increase?
[A] There might be an increase of 2.2 billion persons from 1975 to the year 2000.
[B] About 50,000 babies are born annually at present.
[C] Between 8000 B.C. and the present, the population increase is about 80,000,000 persons each year.
[D] The population increased faster between 8000 B.C. and 1650 than between 1650 and the present.
61. The author of the passage intends to ________.
[A] warn people against the population explosion in the near future
[B] compare the demographic growth pattern in the past with that after 1650
[C] find out the cause for rapid increase in population in recent years
[D] present us a clear and complete picture of the demographic growth