Problem 29 - Beginning and Intermediate Algebra

Question

Use a signed number to express each number in boldface italics. Between July \(1,2016,\) and July \(1,2017,\) the population of the United States increased by approximately \(2,216,602 .\) (Data from U.S. Census Bureau.)

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

+2,216,602

Step 1: Identify the Increase in Population

The population increased by 2,216,602 from July 1, 2016, to July 1, 2017. This increase is given as a positive number since it represents a growth.

Step 2: Express the Increase as a Signed Number

Since the number represents an increase, it should have a positive sign. Therefore, the signed number is \(+2,216,602\).

Key Concepts

Population Increase

When we talk about a population increasing, we mean that the number of people in a certain area has gone up. For example, between July 1, 2016, and July 1, 2017, the population of the United States increased by approximately 2,216,602 people. This type of growth is common in various parts of the world due to factors like births, immigration, and longer life expectancy. Understanding how to describe this change is important, especially when dealing with large numbers.

Positive Numbers

Positive numbers are numbers that are greater than zero. They can represent many things, such as increases, gains, or anything that adds value. In our example, the increase of 2,216,602 people represents a positive change. To express this, we can write the number with a positive sign, like this: (+2,216,602). Using the positive sign helps clarify that the number is an increase. It's especially useful in mathematical contexts where distinguishing between increases and decreases is crucial.

U.S. Census Bureau

The U.S. Census Bureau is a government agency responsible for collecting and analyzing data about the population of the United States. They conduct a census every ten years, but they also gather information regularly to keep track of changes. The data they provide helps us understand our population size, growth, and various other demographic details. Data from the U.S. Census Bureau is highly reliable and used for many important decisions, like policy-making, economic planning, and social services. In the given example, they provided the information about the population increase of 2,216,602 people between July 1, 2016, and July 1, 2017. This information helps highlight trends and patterns in population growth.