The measure used to compare the fertility performance of different age groups is the Total Fertility Rate (TFR). Here's why:
1. Total Fertility Rate (TFR): TFR represents the average number of children that would be born to a woman over her lifetime if she were to experience the current age-specific fertility rates throughout her childbearing years. It gives a comprehensive overview of fertility patterns within a population.
2. Comparison: TFR allows for a comparison of fertility levels among different age groups and populations. It helps in understanding the overall fertility behavior and trends.
3. Example: For instance, if Country A has a TFR of 2.1 and Country B has a TFR of 3.5, it indicates that women in Country B, on average, are having more children over their lifetimes compared to those in Country A.
In summary, the Total Fertility Rate is the measure that best enables the comparison of fertility performance across different age groups within a population.