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Rule of 70

Definition

The Rule of 70 is a mathematical formula used to estimate the doubling time of a growing quantity based on its annual growth rate. It provides a quick way to determine how long it takes for a population or any other quantity to double in size.

Analogy

Imagine you have invested money that grows at a fixed annual interest rate. The Rule of 70 helps you estimate how many years it will take for your investment to double. For example, if the interest rate is 7%, using the Rule of 70, you can estimate that your investment will double in approximately 10 years (70 divided by 7).

Related terms

Exponential Growth: Rapid and continuous growth where the quantity increases at an increasing rate over time.

Carrying Capacity: The maximum number of individuals of a species that an environment can sustainably support.

Population Dynamics: The study of changes in population size and composition over time, including factors influencing birth rates, death rates, immigration, and emigration.