Correct Answer: Working-age population to dependent population

Solution : The correct answer is (b) Working-age population to dependent population

The dependency ratio refers to the ratio of the economically dependent population to the working-age population. The economically dependent population includes individuals who are typically not part of the labor force and rely on others for financial support, such as children, elderly individuals, and individuals with disabilities. The working-age population includes individuals who are considered to be of working age and are typically expected to participate in the labor force.

The dependency ratio is an important demographic indicator that provides insights into the potential burden on the working-age population to support and provide for the dependent population. A high dependency ratio indicates a larger proportion of dependent individuals relative to the working-age population, which can have implications for social welfare systems, labor market dynamics, and economic sustainability.