Does the word dynamics take a verb in singular or plural form? In Google search, it looks like both are equally used. For example, which one is more appropriate?
Population dynamics is influenced by a number of factors.
Population dynamics are influenced by a number of factors.
If both are ok, are there any differences in their interpretations?*
Best Answer
"Dynamics" can be either singular or plural, depending on usage. http://i.word.com/idictionary/dynamics
The science of Dynamics is singular. "Dynamics is important for Physics majors to study."
"Group Dynamics is a useful managerial tool."
a specific instance of "a pattern or process of change, growth or activity" can be called a dynamic. So in contrasting two or more of these you would use "dymamics" as plural. "Your family dynamic was different from mine." "Our family dynamics were different."
So I would say that your first example refers to the study of population dynamics, whereas the second refers to the varying dynamics of two or more populations.