Question

The population of Florida in 1990 was 4,877,185, and the population in

2010 was 6,346,105. Using the formula P = P₀(1 + r), which growth rate best represents the change in population between 1990 and 2010?

A) 1.262%
B) 1.325%
C) 2.442%
D) 2.668%

Answer 1

The correct growth rate representing the change in Florida's population between 1990 and 2010 is 2.668%, which is option D.

Step-by-step explanation:

• The student is asking for the growth rate that best represents the change in the population of Florida between 1990 and 2010 using the formula P = P₀(1 + r).
• To find the growth rate (r), we need to rearrange the formula to solve for r, and plug in the values for P (6,346,105), P₀ (4,877,185), and the time (t = 2010 - 1990 = 20 years).
• When you solve for r, the equation becomes r = (P/P₀)^(1/t) - 1.
• Substituting the known values gives us r = (6,346,105 / 4,877,185)^(1/20) - 1, which approximately equals 0.02668 or 2.668% when expressed as a percentage.
• Therefore, the correct growth rate that represents the population change from 1990 to 2010 is 2.668%, which corresponds to answer choice D).