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Growth and Decay

Mike McGarry
Lesson by Mike McGarry
Magoosh Expert
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Word Problems
Summary
The content focuses on solving growth and decay word problems, a rare but potential question type on the GMAT exam, emphasizing that all necessary mathematical information will be provided within the question.
  • Growth and decay problems involve populations or samples increasing or decreasing over time.
  • These problems may reference scientific concepts like radioactive decay but don't require prior scientific knowledge.
  • The basic approach involves calculating changes step by step over given time intervals using a starting value and a specified multiplier or divisor.
  • Examples include calculating the remaining mass of a decaying radioactive isotope and the growth of a bacteria population over time.
  • Key strategy: Take the problem step by step, using the time interval and multiplier/divisor provided to reach the final amount.
Chapters
00:00
Understanding Growth and Decay
00:53
Approach to Solving Problems
01:25
Practical Examples