Please help with linear equation

Question

Which is a linear equation for the population, P, of a town whose initial population is 23,400 and decreases by 200 people per year?

a)   P = 23,400 + 200t

b)   P = 23,400 – 200t

c)    P = 200 + 23,400t

d)   P = 200 – 23,400t

Answer 1

Hi Louis!

Since you are beginning with a population of 23,400, which is a constant number, and then decreasing by 200 people per year, the solution would be this:

23,400 - 200t

This expression will give you the current population after a given number years, t.