1. What is Percentage Growth/Decay?

The percentage growth/decay formula calculates how a value changes over time when it grows or decays at a constant percentage rate each period. This is commonly used in finance, population studies, and scientific modeling.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the compound growth formula:

Where:

• \( Old\ Value \) — Starting amount
• \( Rate \) — Growth rate (positive) or decay rate (negative) in percentage
• \( Periods \) — Number of time periods

Explanation: The formula shows exponential growth when the rate is positive, and exponential decay when the rate is negative.

3. Applications of Growth Calculation

Details: This calculation is essential for financial planning (investments, loans), population projections, radioactive decay, and any scenario involving compound changes.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the starting value, growth/decay rate (use negative for decrease), and number of periods. The calculator will show the final value and a graph of the progression.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the difference between simple and compound growth?
A: Simple growth applies the percentage to the original amount each time. Compound growth applies it to the current amount, leading to exponential change.

Q2: How do I calculate annual growth from total growth?
A: Use the formula: \( Annual\ Rate = 100 \times ((Final/Initial)^{1/Periods} - 1) \)

Q3: What does negative growth rate mean?
A: A negative rate indicates decay or decrease over time, like depreciation or population decline.

Q4: Can I use this for monthly calculations?
A: Yes, just make sure your rate matches the period (monthly rate for monthly periods).

Q5: Why does the graph curve upward/downward?
A: The curve shows exponential change - the effect compounds over time, creating a non-linear progression.