Math Problem Statement

Write the equation of the exponential function, y = C * a^x, through the points (3, 45) and (6, 180).

Solution

The problem is asking to find the equation of the exponential function of the form:

y=Caxy = C \cdot a^x

given two points: (3,45)(3, 45) and (6,180)(6, 180).

Step 1: Set up equations using the given points.

For the point (3,45)(3, 45): 45=Ca345 = C \cdot a^3

For the point (6,180)(6, 180): 180=Ca6180 = C \cdot a^6

Step 2: Divide the second equation by the first equation to eliminate CC.

18045=Ca6Ca3\frac{180}{45} = \frac{C \cdot a^6}{C \cdot a^3} 4=a34 = a^3

Step 3: Solve for aa.

a=43a = \sqrt[3]{4} a1.5874a \approx 1.5874

Step 4: Substitute aa into one of the original equations to solve for CC.

Using 45=C(1.5874)345 = C \cdot (1.5874)^3: 45=C445 = C \cdot 4 C=454=11.25C = \frac{45}{4} = 11.25

Step 5: Write the final equation.

The equation of the exponential function is:

y=11.25(1.5874)xy = 11.25 \cdot (1.5874)^x

Would you like further clarification on any steps?


Here are 5 related questions you might find interesting:

  1. How does changing the base aa affect the shape of the exponential curve?
  2. What is the significance of the constant CC in the exponential function?
  3. How would the function change if one of the points was negative?
  4. Can you express the exponential function using logarithms instead?
  5. How do you find the inverse of an exponential function?

Tip: Always verify your solutions by plugging the points back into the final equation!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Algebra
Exponential Functions
Solving Systems of Equations

Formulas

Exponential function: y = C * a^x
Equation setup using points: 45 = C * a^3 and 180 = C * a^6
Division of equations to solve for a: 180 / 45 = a^3

Theorems

Exponential growth equation
Solving for variables by dividing equations

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-12