Population Growth

For a species which is being protected from its natural enemies, the relationship between "Number of young produced" (Y) and "time" (t) can in general be modeled as an exponential function of this form:

Y = A·10kt

Subject: Algebra
Topics: Exponential Equations and Functions
Grades: 10 - 12
Knowledge and Skills:
- Can determine the equation of an exponential function that closely matches a set of points

Download Teacher Guide: Population Growth (PDF)
Download Student Activity: Population Growth (PDF)

Algebra in the Real World Movie:

The Blackfooted FerretThe Blackfooted Ferret

US Fish and Wildlife Service wildlife biologists explain how they are making great strides toward saving this endangered species. From breeding ferret offspring to preparing them for release back into the wild, the recovery effort of these cute carnivores is rich in math and science.
Running time 5:25 minutes.

Watch the Movie