Due to an increasing population, developed land in a region is increasing at a rate of 12% per year. If there are currently 8,500 square miles of developed land, which equation models the square mileage of developed land, y, after x years?
A.
y = 1.12(8,500)x
B.
y = 12(85)x
C.
y = 8,500(0.12)x
D.
y = 8,500(1.12)x
1 answer
The correct answer is:
D. \( y = 8,500(1.12)^x \)
This equation models the square mileage of developed land, \( y \), after \( x \) years, accounting for the 12% increase. The term \( 1.12 \) represents the original amount (100%) plus the 12% growth.
