Question

In 10 years, the population of Detroit fell from 950,000 to about 712,500. Find the percent decrease.

Short answer

The percent decrease in the population will be 25% in 10 years.

Step-by-step solution

Step. 1 Given Information

10 years ago, the population of Detroit was 950,000.

Now at present the population reduces to 712,500.

Step. 2 Percentage calculation

The change in the population in 10 years is 950,000 - 712,500 = 237,500

So, the percent change in the population in 10 years will be calculated as follows:

$$\begin{gathered} =\frac{Changeinpopulation}{Population10yearsago}\times 100\% \\ =\frac{-237,500}{950,000}\times 100\% \\ =-0.25\times 100\% \\ =-25\% \end{gathered}$$

This negative sign shows that the change is negative and it is percent decrease.

Therefore, 25% will be the percent decrease.