What does 'r' in equation dN/dt = rN (K-N/K) represent?

The correct answer is Option (2) → Intrinsic rate of natural increase

In the logistic growth equation, N is the population density at time t, K is the carrying capacity, and r is the intrinsic rate of natural increase: the rate at which the population would grow per individual when resources are not limiting.

Option (1) Extensive rate of natural increase — Incorrect. There is no such term.

Option (2) Intrinsic rate of natural increase — Correct. It is the built-in growth rate of the population, worked out from its birth and death rates.

Option (3) Extensive rate of natural decrease — Incorrect. There is no such term.

Option (4) Intrinsic rate of natural decrease — Incorrect. r measures increase, not decrease. A population falls only when deaths and emigration exceed births and immigration.

Note: A similar question was also asked in CUET (UG) 2025 on 20-05-2025 (Slot 1).

NCERT Extract:
Population Growth – …

Figure 11.3 Population growth curve a when responses are not limiting the growth, plot is exponential, b when responses are limiting the growth, plot is logistic, K is carrying capacity