In 2005, for each of the 14 million people present in a country, 0.028 were born and 0.008 died during the year. Using exponential equation, the number of people present in 2015 is predicted as:

The required exponential equation is,

Where N = Population size

t = time period

r = ‘intrinsic rate of natural increase’ = b-d

d = death rates

b = birth rates

From the given criteria,

N₂₀₀₅ = 14 million

b = 0.028

d = 0.008

∴ r = b-d = 0.028 – 0008 = 0.020

dt = 2015 – 2005 = 10 years

Using exponential equation,

⇒ dN = 0.28×10 = 2.8

We know

dN = N₂₀₁₅- N₂₀₀₅

⇒ N₂₀₁₅= dN + N₂₀₀₅ = 2.8 + 14 = 16.8 ≈ 17 millions

Using exponential equation, the number of people present in 2015 is predicted as 17 millions.

Hence the correct answer is option (b).