We use the formula for exponential growth:
P = Po exp(kt)
Using the population data from 1993 to 1996, we can solve for the growth rate k
76 = 72 exp(k(3))
76/72 = exp(3k)
ln (76/72) = 3k
k = ln(76/72) / 3 = 0.0180
In 10 years (2003), the population will be:
P = Po exp(0.0180t)
P = 72 exp(0.0180(10))
P = 86.22 million
