The growth in the world's population is roughly exponential, but there are some intriguing patterns to the data brought out by a residual plot. This is the world's population from the year 0 to 1995.

Year (Billions)

0.0
1000
1750
1800
1930
1960
1974
1987
1990
1992
1995

 0.3
0.32
0.8
1
2
3
4
5
5.2
5.4
5.7

For this interactive activity, assistance may be required. This activity might not be viewable on your mobile device.Copy and paste the data in the table above into the x and y columns in the exponential regression applet below. You will have to copy and paste one column at a time.

After the data is in the applet, press the plot button and press the analyze data button.


View the results.

Resources used above:

Exponential Regression Applet. Dr. Philippe B. Laval, Kennesaw State University.