Try to find the remainder when $ S = P(1) + P(2) + \dots + P(10) $ is divided by 7, where $ P(n) = n^2 + 3n + 5 $.

First, compute $ S = \sum_{n=1}^{10} (n^2 + 3n + 5) $. Break into parts:

$$
S = \sum_{n=1}^{10} n^2 + 3 \sum_{n=1}^{10} n + \sum_{n=1}^{10} 5
$$

Understanding the Context

Use standard summation formulas:

  • $ \sum_{n=1}^{10} n^2 = \frac{10 \cdot 11 \cdot 21}{6} = 385 $
    - $ \sum_{n=1}^{10} n = \frac{10 \cdot 11}{2} = 55 $
    - $ \sum_{n=1}^{10} 5 = 5 \cdot 10 = 50 $

Now substitute:

$$
S = 385 + 3 \cdot 55 + 50 = 385 + 165 + 50 = 600
$$

Key Insights

Now compute $ 600 \mod 7 $. Divide 600 by 7:

$$
7 \cdot 85 = 595, \quad 600 - 595 = 5
$$

Thus, $ S \equiv 5 \pmod{7} $

Note: Although the original mathematical framework involves quadratic functions and coefficient matching (similar to functional equations), this problem applies modular arithmetic to a real-world model, demonstrating how structured functions can describe ecological patterns and how modular arithmetic simplifies cumulative projections—ideal for a conservation educator's data-driven outreach.

Therefore, the remainder when $ P(1) + P(2) + \dots + P(10) $ is divided by 7 is $ \boxed{5} $.