Answer:
Part A: C) y = 358,000(0.98)^t
Part B: about 323604 people
Step-by-step explanation:
This problem would represent an exponential function, which involves a constant multiplicative rate. I believe you could view it in the form of y = (initial population)(rate)^t.
In this case, since it is decreasing annually by 2%, you could view the multiplicative rate as 98% (0.98 in decimal form), since 98% would be remaining each year you deduct 2%.
So, it would be y = 358,000(0.98)^t for Part A.
For Part B, simply plug in 5 for t, since t is being measured in years:
358,000(0.98)^5 = 323603.645254 ≈ 323604 people
