Simple Population

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What does this Model Represent?

This model is a study of population growth based on a growth factor over time. The easiest way to visualize a population growth model is to assume that some proportion of the population reproduces during each time step and some proportion dies. The difference between the two is the growth factor.

What are the elements of this Model?

This model simulates a simplified model where the population increases by some proportion b during each time step. Thus, if one knows the initial population R and the change in time dt, they can know that the change in R is equal to R*b*dt. Thus, the final population is R initial + R*b*dt.

How do I use this Model?

To use this model, simply choose values for the initial population, growth factor, and time, all found in Column D. As these are changed, the graph will automatically update to show you the difference between initial and final population.

What should I expect?

As a general rule, a higher growth factor and longer time will increase the difference between the initial and final populations. Everything is proportional to the initial population, so increasing or decreasing that will scale your model without changing the relative values. You can also try negative values for b to model population decline.

Download the model file.