A geographer studies urban expansion. A city grew from 800,000 to 960,000 residents over 10 years. What was the average annual percentage growth rate?
["Title: Analyzing Urban Growth: How a City Expanded from 800,000 to 960,000 in 10 Years", "In the dynamic world of urban development, understanding population trends is essential for sustainable city planning. A recent case study highlights how one city experienced significant growth over a decade—amplifying both challenges and opportunities for infrastructure, housing, and public services.", "### Urban Expansion: A Case Study of Steady Growth", "Over a 10-year period, this city’s population increased from 800,000 to 960,000. This growth reflects a measurable shift shaped by migration, natural increase, and economic attraction. But beyond raw numbers, geographers analyze the rate of expansion to inform policy and investment decisions.", "### Calculating the Average Annual Percentage Growth Rate", "To determine the average annual percentage growth rate, we use the compound annual growth rate (CAGR) formula:", "[\n\ ext{CAGR} = \left( \frac{\ ext{Final Population}}{\ ext{Initial Population}} \right)^{\frac{1}{n}} - 1\n]", "Where:\n- Final Population = 960,000\n- Initial Population = 800,000\n- n = 10 years", "Plugging in the values:", "[\n\ ext{CAGR} = \left( \frac{960,000}{800,000} \right)^{\frac{1}{10}} - 1 = (1.2)^{0.1} - 1 \approx 1.0185 - 1 = 0.0185\n]", "Converting to a percentage:\n1.85% average annual growth rate", "### Why This Matters", "A 1.85% annual growth rate indicates steady urban expansion, signaling persistent migration patterns and economic vitality. Geographers use such metrics to model future housing needs, transport demands, and environmental impacts. Urban planners and policymakers rely on this data to design resilient cities capable of adapting sustainably to population changes.", "Understanding the pace of growth helps balance development with quality of life, ensuring cities remain livable, inclusive, and economically dynamic.", "---", "Key takeaways:\n- Urban expansion growth from 800,000 to 960,000 over 10 years equals about 1.85% average annual percentage growth.\n- Geospatial analysis enables informed urban management for growing communities.\n- Recognizing growth trends supports smarter infrastructure investment and policy development.", "---", "Stay updated on urban studies and sustainable development by exploring how cities adapt through data-driven planning."]
