This is an exponential function. The starting population is: 10,000 and it doubles every 14 years. In 42 years ( 42 : 14 = 3 ) the population doubles 3 times. The equation ( exponential ) is : y = 10,000 * 2^n In this case: n = 3 y = 10,000 * 2 ^3 = 10,000 * 8 = 80,000 Answer: In 42 years the population of this town will be 80,000.