Step-by-step explanation
In this problem, we have a model for the fox population in a certain region. We know that:
• the population has an annual growth rate of 8% per year, so the ratio is r = 0.08,
,
• the estimated population in the year 2000 was P(0) = 26,600.
We must find a function of the population as a function of time t (in years), starting with t = 0 at the year 2000.
(1) The population is given by the exponential function:
![P(t)=P_0\cdot(1+r)^t.](https://img.qammunity.org/2023/formulas/mathematics/college/5sertektgt95jvol8pmhncj6szz84rz5hl.png)
Replacing the data from above, we get:
![P(t)=26,600\cdot(1+0.08)^t=26,600\cdot1.08^t.](https://img.qammunity.org/2023/formulas/mathematics/college/2f8ow1e3cc3k8gykr3zfw7f8y1f4ob40iy.png)
(2) At year 2008, we have t = 2008 - 2000 = 8. Replacing this value in the formula above, we get:
![P(8)=26,600\cdot1.08^8\cong49,235.](https://img.qammunity.org/2023/formulas/mathematics/college/yxmnhkrh5bez4vo8qinb4cead9snz2rulm.png)
Answer
(a) P(t) = 26,600*1.08^t
![P(t)=26,600\cdot1.08^t](https://img.qammunity.org/2023/formulas/mathematics/college/v7ok8lsxb2wo7czn6uv4lrieal06wzfyt4.png)
(b) 49,235