Problema Solution

1. Write an exponential function to model the situation. Then predict the value of the function after 5 years (to the nearest whole number).

A population of 450 animals that decreases at an annual rate of 19%.

Answer provided by our tutors

The population decreases 18% during the first year,

so at the end of the first year 82% of 470 remain.

82% means 82 ÷ 100 = 0.82

so at the end of the first year 470(0.82) remain.

That number decreases 18% during the second year,

so at the end of the second year 82% of 470(0.82) remain.

82% of 470(0.82) is 470(0.82)(0.82) = 470(0.82)²

That number decreases 18% during the third year,

so at the end of the third year 82% of 470(0.82)² remain.

82% of 470(0.82)² is 470(0.82)²(0.82) = 470(0.82)³

Continuing this way, you can see at the end of five years

470(0.82)^5 = 174 (nearest whole number) remain,

and the general model for _x_ years is 470(0.82)^x