jmc

Question

In the fall of 1996, a total of 800 students participated in an annual school clean-up day. The organizers of the event expect that in each of the years 1997, 1998, and 1999, participation will increase by 50% over the previous year. The number of participants the organizers will expect in the fall of 1999 is

Accepted Answer

If the participation increases by 50%, then it is the same as saying participation is multipled by a factor of 100% + 50% = 1 + 0.5 = 1.5. In 1997, participation will be 800 1.5 = 1200. In 1998, participation will be 1200 1.5 = 1800 In 1999, participation will be 1800 1.5 = 2700, giving an answer of 2700.