terrence is a scientist who works with the department of agriculture. in order to ensure a good harvest…

terrence is a scientist who works with the department of agriculture. in order to ensure a good harvest, terrence keeps track of various local caterpillar populations. he catches 750 caterpillars, marks them, and releases them. then later, he catches 400 caterpillars, 12 of which are marked. to the nearest whole number, what is the best estimate for the caterpillar population?

terrence is a scientist who works with the department of agriculture. in order to ensure a good harvest, terrence keeps track of various local caterpillar populations. he catches 750 caterpillars, marks them, and releases them. then later, he catches 400 caterpillars, 12 of which are marked. to the nearest whole number, what is the best estimate for the caterpillar population?

Answer

Answer:

25000

Explanation:

Step1: Set - up proportion

Let $N$ be the total caterpillar population. The proportion is $\frac{750}{N}=\frac{12}{400}$.

Step2: Cross - multiply

$12N = 750\times400$.

Step3: Calculate right - hand side

$750\times400=300000$. So, $12N = 300000$.

Step4: Solve for $N$

$N=\frac{300000}{12}=25000$.