Thread: Developing a model function for population growth

Hey,
I actually know how to do this portfolio but my biggest problem is understanding the English and the given terms. One of the tasks is:

Analytically develop one model function that fits the data points on your graph.
(I have already graphed my graph from the given data)

What does the question mean though? Does it mean that I should create my own function e.g exponential/ logarithmic that fits the points on the given graph? If so, then all I have to do is plug in random numbers and try to find a function that best suits the points on the graph. I am using my TI calculator to find these numbers but what I find confusing is the fact that this formula: P(t) = K/1 + Le^-Mt is given to us to answer the next questions so I cant use it to answer this question because it would then be just repetition. I have tried everything and that is why I am now confused. How am I supposed to develop another model function?

Please help me understand this!
Thanks

Originally Posted by ullmeliza

Hey,
I actually know how to do this portfolio but my biggest problem is understanding the English and the given terms. One of the tasks is:

Analytically develop one model function that fits the data points on your graph.
(I have already graphed my graph from the given data)

What does the question mean though? Does it mean that I should create my own function e.g exponential/ logarithmic that fits the points on the given graph?

Yes

If so, then all I have to do is plug in random numbers and try to find a function that best suits the points on the graph. I am using my TI calculator to find these numbers but what I find confusing is the fact that this formula: P(t) = K/1 + Le^-Mt is given to us to answer the next questions so I cant use it to answer this question because it would then be just repetition. I have tried everything and that is why I am now confused. How am I supposed to develop another model function?

Please help me understand this!
Thanks

You need some form or regression to fit the parameters of the function to the data. If you have done linear regression that is probably what you are supposed to use. This may reuire some sort of transformation to convert the problem to one of linear regression.

CB