Pre Calc Word Problem

Question

1. Consider the various types of functions that can be used for mathematical models, which types of function(s) could be used to describe a situation in which the number of individuals in an endangered population (the dependent variable) becomes asymptotically close to reaching zero but never actually becomes extinct? Justify your choice of function(s).

Answer 1

The best choice to model decreasing populations is an exponential model.

y=a(b)^x

a would be the starting population

b would need to be between 0 and 1 for it to be decreasing

You could also add in a vertical shift upward

y=a(b)^x + h