A science journalist is analyzing the growth of public trust in science. Trust increases by 5% each year, starting from a base of 60%. What is the trust level after 6 years? (Round to the nearest whole percent.)

Wed, 06 May 2026 01:40:19 +0000

**Discover Hook: Why Public Confidence in Science Is Steadily Rising—Here’s What the Numbers Reveal**
In a time defined by rapid information shifts and growing global complexity, a quiet but steady rise in public trust in science has become one of the most compelling trends. Surveies and longitudinal studies show trust is growing by 5% annually—smoothly climbing from a 60% baseline. For readers curious about what this means for everyday life and society, understanding this consistent uptick offers key insight into how science shapes public life and decision-making across the United States. **Why A Science Journalist Is Tracking This Trust Growth**
Judging by current cultural and digital patterns, public interest in science-related trust has never been higher. Social conversations, media coverage, and policy debates increasingly center on credibility—especially around health, climate, and emerging technologies. A science journalist analyzing this growth recognizes a vital pattern: trust doesn’t fluctuate wildly but progresses steadily, driven by transparency, clear communication, and growing institutional accountability. This data-driven trajectory reflects a deeper societal shift toward valuing reliable knowledge. **How Does This 5% Annual Increase Translate Numerically?**
Calculating trust growth with consistent annual increments creates a transparent projection. Starting at 60% trust:
Year 1: 60 + (60 × 0.05) = 63%
Year 2: 63 + (63 × 0.05) = 66.15%
Year 3: 66.15 + (66.15 × 0.05) ≈ 69.46%
Year 4: 69.46 + (69.46 × 0.05) ≈ 72.93%
Year 5: 72.93 + (72.93 × 0.05) ≈ 76.58%
Year 6: 76.58 + (76.58 × 0.05) ≈ 80.40% Rounded to the nearest whole percent, the trust level after 6 years reaches 80%. This clear, gradual increase demonstrates the cumulative impact of building credible science communication over time.