The U.S. energy-related carbon dioxide emissions in 2006 were 5,877 million metric tons carbon equivalent. In 2005, that figure was 5,984 million metric tons. Find the percent of decrease and round to the nearest tenth of one percent.
A) 2.0%
B) 1.8%
C) 1.9%
D) 2.1%
E) 1.6%

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

To find the percent of decrease, we use the formula:
Percent decrease = [(Initial value - Final value) / Initial value] x 100%

Plugging in the values given:
Percent decrease = [(5,984-5,877)/5,984] x 100%
Percent decrease = [107/5,984] x 100%
Percent decrease = 0.0179 x 100%
Percent decrease = 1.79%

Rounding to the nearest tenth of one percent, we get 1.8%. Therefore, the best choice is B.

The US Energy-Related Carbon Dioxide Emissions in 2006 Were 5,877 Million