How Do You Calculate Bacterial Growth Using Exponential Equations?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating bacterial growth using the exponential growth equation A=Pe^(rt). Given a bacterial culture with an initial count of 200 after 15 minutes and 1500 after 40 minutes, participants attempted to find the population after 120 minutes. The calculation provided, P=60e^(0.0806 x 120), resulted in an incorrect population estimate of 952023.0848. It was noted that maintaining more decimal points in calculations is crucial for accuracy.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of exponential growth equations
  • Familiarity with the mathematical constant e
  • Basic knowledge of logarithmic functions
  • Ability to perform calculations with significant figures
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation and application of the exponential growth formula A=Pe^(rt)
  • Learn how to accurately calculate growth rates from given data points
  • Explore the impact of significant figures on mathematical calculations
  • Investigate real-world applications of bacterial growth modeling in microbiology
USEFUL FOR

Students in biology or mathematics, educators teaching exponential growth concepts, and researchers involved in microbiological studies.

hsd
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Homework Statement



The count in a bateria culture was 200 after 15 minutes and 1500 after 40 minutes.

Find the population after 120 minutes.

Homework Equations



A=Pe^(rt)

The Attempt at a Solution



I did
P=60e^(.0806 x 120)
P= 952023.0848 (answer is wrong)
 
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hsd said:

Homework Statement



The count in a bateria culture was 200 after 15 minutes and 1500 after 40 minutes.

Find the population after 120 minutes.

Homework Equations



A=Pe^(rt)

The Attempt at a Solution



I did
P=60e^(.0806 x 120)
P= 952023.0848 (answer is wrong)

Your form also doesn't give quite the right answer for t=15 or t=40. I think you might want to keep more decimal points before rounding off.
 
Last edited:

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