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STEAM Task- Functions

The document discusses functions, specifically exponential functions, which model rapid population growth in ecology. It explains the formula for exponential growth and provides an example of projecting population size over time, highlighting the significance of these functions in understanding ecological dynamics. The research emphasizes the importance of visual representations to illustrate population growth and its implications for resource management and conservation efforts.

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diya
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3 views

STEAM Task- Functions

The document discusses functions, specifically exponential functions, which model rapid population growth in ecology. It explains the formula for exponential growth and provides an example of projecting population size over time, highlighting the significance of these functions in understanding ecological dynamics. The research emphasizes the importance of visual representations to illustrate population growth and its implications for resource management and conservation efforts.

Uploaded by

diya
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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What are functions?

- A function represents a relationship where each input (like time, in years) has a
unique output (like population size)
- Here, an exponential function (e.g., f(x)= a*e^bx) is commonly used to model rapid
population growth, where population size grows proportionally to its current size.

Our research component:


- Field: Science (specifically, Ecology and Population Growth)
- Chosen Function: Exponential Function

Research Summary:

Population growth in biology is often exponential, where populations grow faster as they
increase in size, assuming abundant resources. For example, bacterial growth in ideal
conditions doubles every set period, creating a rapid rise.

Formula for Exponential Growth: P(t)= P0*e^rt, where:

● P(t) is the population at time t,


● P0​is the initial population size,
● r is the growth rate, and
● e is the base of the natural logarithm (approx. 2.718).

Modeling:

Let’s say we start with a population of 1,000 and a growth rate of 0.02 (or 2%) per year.
Using the formula P(t)= P0*e^rt, we can project population size over time.

- Formula: P(t)= 1000*e^0.02*t


- Graph: The graph will show exponential growth, starting from 1,000 and rising as ttt
(years) increases.
Here’s the graph illustrating exponential population growth over time, starting with an
initial population of 1,000 and growing at 2% annually. Key years are highlighted to show
how quickly the population increases as time progresses.

Our artistic component:

Visuals:

● A curve showing exponential growth, with annotations at key points (e.g., population
size at years 0, 10, and 20).
● A visual representation of bacterial growth over time to illustrate rapid increase.

Here’s the infographic illustrating exponential population growth. It features a graph with
key points labeled, along with visuals demonstrating the rapid growth, especially in
contexts like bacterial colonies. Interestingly, we used ChatGPT to generate it!
In conclusion, exponential functions are crucial in science, particularly in understanding
ecological dynamics. This function helps scientists and policymakers anticipate resource
needs, environmental impacts, and conservation efforts. The graph of population growth
reveals how quickly populations can rise, emphasizing the importance of balance in
ecosystems.

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