Final answer:
The value of b in the function P(T) = ab^t can be determined by using the given information.
Step-by-step explanation:
The value of b in the function P(T) = ab^t can be determined by using the given information. In this case, we know that the population will grow at a rate of 3 percent if a conservation plan is put in place. This growth rate, 3 percent, can be represented as 0.03. So the equation becomes P(T) = a(1 + 0.03)^t.
Since we are given the initial population (600 seals), we can substitute these values into the equation to solve for b.
Using the formula: P(T) = 600(1 + 0.03)^T.
Therefore, the value of b is 1 + 0.03.