Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators: Mathematics (5733)Algebra and FunctionsEasy
A scientist is observing the growth of a plant. The height of the plant, H(d), in centimeters, after 'd' days is modeled by the function H(d) = 0.5d + 12. What is the predicted height of the plant after 10 days?
- A62 cm
- B12.5 cm
- C22 cm
- D17 cm
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. 17 cm
To find the predicted height after 10 days, substitute d=10 into the given function H(d) = 0.5d + 12. This yields H(10) = 0.5(10) + 12 = 5 + 12 = 17 cm.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. This would be the result if the growth rate was 5d instead of 0.5d.
- B. This would be the height if the growth rate was 0.05d instead of 0.5d.
- C. This might result from incorrectly multiplying 0.5 by 10 then adding 12 (e.g., 10 + 12 = 22, ignoring the 0.5).
Function Evaluation
Function evaluation is the process of determining the value of a function for a given input value. It involves substituting the input into the function's expression.
- Replace the variable with the given input value.
- Follow the order of operations (PEMDAS/BODMAS) to simplify.
- The result is the output value of the function for that input.
Memory trick: Input goes IN, Output comes OUT!