Question

1. what term describes a limiting factor that affects all populations in similar ways, regardless of population size?
2. what is the usual response in the population size of many species to a density - independent limiting factor?

Explanation:

1. Density - independent limiting factors affect populations regardless of population size. Examples include natural disasters like floods or extreme temperature changes. They impact all populations in a similar way.
2. When a density - independent limiting factor occurs, the usual response in the population size of many species is a decrease. These factors can cause high mortality rates and reduce the number of individuals in a population.

Answer:

1. Density - independent limiting factors affect populations regardless of their size.
2. The population size usually decreases.