document.write( "Question 1134613: A scientist studied the number of bears in a certain area. In 2010, there were 42 bears, and in 2012, there were 67 bears. Based on a linear model, how many bears will be in that area in 2016?
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Algebra.Com's Answer #752113 by greenestamps(13200) $\"\"$ $\"About$

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\n" ); document.write( "If you are solving the problem using formal algebra, definitely don't use 2010 and 2012 as the x values of the two data points; it just means you are going to be using MUCH larger numbers in your calculations. And in some similar problems it greatly reduces the accuracy of your answer.

\n" ); document.write( "Instead, use 2010 as your \"reference point\" and use x values of 0 and 2 (number of years after the reference point).

\n" ); document.write( "But you should be able to solve this problem easily without formal algebra (unless, of course, an algebraic solution is required).

\n" ); document.write( "In 2 years from 2010 to 2012 the population increased by 25, from 42 to 67. If the increase is linear, then in another 4 years the population will increase by 50; 67+50 = 117.

\n" ); document.write( "Solving the problem using formal algebra is good practice; but solving a problem using logical reasoning is excellent exercise for the brain. \n" ); document.write( "

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