Question 1079033
First Problem.

Let Pn: the population in Nowheresville after n years.

Pn = 17,350*(1,04)^n

So P3 = 17,350*(1.04)^3 = 19,516.

Second Problem.

Let Pn: the population in Nowheresville after n years.

Pn = 17,350*(0.96)^n

So P3 = 17,350*(0.96)^3 = 15,350.

For every problem, we can use a geometric progession, as the total increasing (or decreasing) is larger (smaller) every year.

@natolino_