which of the following observations would be consistent with an exponential model of population growth?

clearly you have not looked at any graph for exponential GROWTH

It's certainly not A

Think: each time period, the population is multiplied by a number greater than 1.

so c?

much better

To determine which observation would be consistent with an exponential model of population growth, let's understand what exponential growth means.

Exponential growth occurs when a population increases at a constant percentage rate over time. In other words, the population grows faster and faster as time goes on, without any limits on resources or other factors.

Now, let's analyze each option:

A) The population grew very quickly but then declined.
This scenario does not align with exponential growth. Exponential growth implies a continuous increase in population, not a decline. Therefore, option A is not consistent with an exponential model.

B) The population is observed to increase steadily over time.
This scenario aligns with exponential growth. If the population increases steadily over time without any decline, it suggests exponential growth. Therefore, option B is consistent with an exponential model.

C) The population is observed to increase at a faster rate as time passes.
This scenario does not align with exponential growth. Exponential growth suggests a constant percentage increase, not an increasing rate over time. Therefore, option C is not consistent with an exponential model.

D) The population started out large, decreased in size, then became large again.
This scenario does not align with exponential growth. Exponential growth implies a continuous increase without any decrease or fluctuation. Therefore, option D is not consistent with an exponential model.

In conclusion, the observation that is consistent with an exponential model of population growth is option B: the population is observed to increase steadily over time.