Second Stage of Demographic Transition
The population growth rate is highest in the second stage of demographic transition. This stage is characterized by high birth rates and declining death rates resulting in a rapid increase in population.

Reasons for high population growth rate in the second stage:
- **High Birth Rates**: In this stage, birth rates are still high due to factors such as traditional values, lack of access to contraceptives, and high infant mortality rates. Consequently, the population increases rapidly.
- **Declining Death Rates**: Improved healthcare, sanitation, and nutrition lead to a decrease in death rates. This results in a larger number of people surviving into adulthood and reproducing, contributing to population growth.

Impacts of high population growth rate in the second stage:
- **Pressure on Resources**: The rapid population growth puts a strain on resources such as food, water, and land, leading to competition and potential scarcity.
- **Challenges for Development**: High population growth can make it difficult for governments to provide adequate services such as healthcare, education, and employment opportunities.

Transition to the next stages:
- As countries progress through the demographic transition, they typically experience a decline in birth rates due to factors like urbanization, education, and access to family planning services. This ultimately leads to a stabilization of the population growth rate in the later stages of the transition.