Select the correct answer. Paul is gathering data about moss growth in a local forest. He measured an area of 11 square centimeters on one particular tree and will come back in 6 months to measure the growth of the moss. If the area covered by moss multiplies by one and a half times each month, approximately how much are will the moss cover when Paul returns? A. \( 125.3 \mathrm{~cm}^{2} \) B. \( 14.7 \mathrm{~cm}^{2} \) C. \( 99.1 \mathrm{~cm}^{2} \) D. \( 16.5 \mathrm{~cm}^{2} \)

To find out how much area the moss will cover after 6 months, we start with the initial area, which is 11 cm². If the moss multiplies by one and a half times each month, we will use the formula: New Area = Initial Area × (Growth Rate)^(Number of Months) The Growth Rate is 1.5, and the number of months is 6: New Area = \( 11 \, \text{cm}^2 \times (1.5)^6 \) Calculating \( (1.5)^6 \) gives approximately 11.39. Thus: New Area ≈ \( 11 \, \text{cm}^2 \times 11.39 = 125.3 \, \text{cm}^2 \) So, the correct answer is A. \( 125.3 \mathrm{~cm}^{2} \) Moss can grow rapidly under favorable conditions, making it a fascinating subject of study! Fun fact: some moss species can survive in extreme conditions, even in the Arctic! Additionally, the growth of moss not only transforms environments but also plays a role in ecosystems by retaining moisture and providing habitat for tiny creatures. If you're interested in nature, observing moss growth can be a delightful hobby!