Multiple choice

The population of a town increases at the rate of 15% per annum. If the present population is 108445, then what was the population 2 years ago?

  1. 72000

  2. 79000

  3. 82000

  4. 85000

Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
C Correct answer
Explanation

P * (1.15)^2 = 108445. P = 108445 / 1.3225 = 82000.

AI explanation

Using the population formula for compound depreciation backwards, the population 2 years ago is calculated by dividing the present population by the growth multiplier squared: 108445 divided by 1.15 squared. Since 1.15 squared is 1.3225, the calculation becomes 108445 divided by 1.3225, which equals exactly 82000. The result is 82000.