Digital SATMath: Advanced MathEasy
A biologist is studying the growth of a certain plant species. The height of the plant, H(t), in centimeters, after t weeks, can be modeled by the function H(t) = 3 * (1.15)^t. What is the predicted height of the plant after 4 weeks?
- A6.00 cm
- B3.45 cm
- C7.80 cm
- D5.25 cm
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. 5.25 cm
To find the predicted height, substitute t=4 into the given exponential function. Calculate 3 * (1.15)^4.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. This option is an incorrect calculation of the exponential term or an incorrect multiplication.
- B. This option results from multiplying 3 by 1.15 once, not raising 1.15 to the power of 4.
- C. This option is a result of incorrect exponentiation or multiplication, leading to an overestimation.
Evaluating Exponential Functions
Evaluating an exponential function involves substituting a given value for the variable (usually time) into the function and calculating the result.
- Exponential functions model growth or decay.
- The base of the exponent determines the rate of change.
- The initial value is the coefficient before the exponential term.
Memory trick: Plug in the time, watch the growth climb!