Question

In the last 20 years, an initial population of 24 pumas in a state park grew by about 12% per year. How many pumas were in the park after 17 years?

Use the equation: n= a( 1 + r )^t​

Answer 1

165 pumas

Explanation:

Using the formula given:

`n = a(1 + r)^t`

where n = number of pumas after a specific number of years

a = initial number of pumas = 24

r = rate = 12% = 0.12

t = number of years = 17

We obtain the number of pumas after 17 years to be:

`n = 24 *(1 + 0.12)^(17)\\\\\\n = 24*(1.12)^(17)\\\\\\n = 24 * 6.866`

`n = 164.78` ≅ 165 pumas

After 17 years, the number of pumas in the park was 165.