Final answer:
The population of cheetahs has decreased by 30%, so from an original count of 12,000, after decreasing by 3,600, there are approximately 8,400 cheetahs remaining.
Step-by-step explanation:
If a population of cheetahs has decreased by 30% over the last 18 years from an original count of about 12,000, we can calculate the current population as follows:
Firstly, we have to find 30% of 12,000, which involves multiplying 12,000 by 0.30 (30/100). This gives us 3,600, which is the number that represents the population decline.
To find the current population, we subtract the decline from the original population: 12,000 - 3,600 = 8,400.
Therefore, there are now approximately 8,400 cheetahs remaining in the population.