Question: An entomologist models pollen transfer efficiency as $ a(a + b) = 120 $, where $ a $ is pollinators and $ b $ is flowers. If $ a = 5 $, find $ b $.

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 18:24:04 +0000

Question: An entomologist models pollen transfer efficiency as $ a(a + b) = 120 $, where $ a $ represents the number of pollinators and $ b $ represents the number of flowers. If there are 5 pollinators ($ a = 5 $), how many flowers ($ b $) optimize pollen transfer? --- Understanding the Model: Pollen Transfer Efficiency In ecological studies, modeling pollen transfer is crucial for understanding plant reproduction and pollinator dynamics. One such model uses a mathematical equation to quantify efficiency:
$$ a(a + b) = 120 $$
Here, $ a $ denotes the number of active pollinators (e.g., bees, butterflies), and $ b $ represents the number of flowers in a given habitat. The goal is to determine the optimal number of flowers ($ b $) needed when the number of pollinators is known.