Math Problem Statement

For the last few years, the production at Zachary’s cornfields have increased by about 6% per year. What type of function best models the change in annual production? A. exponential B. linear C. quadratic D. constant

Solution

The situation described, where the production increases by a fixed percentage each year (6%), suggests a growth pattern that is proportional to the previous year's value. This type of growth is best modeled by an exponential function, where the quantity grows by a fixed percentage over time.

Thus, the correct answer is:

A. Exponential

Explanation:

  • Exponential functions model growth or decay that happens at a constant percentage rate. The general form is P(t)=P0(1+r)tP(t) = P_0 \cdot (1 + r)^t, where P0P_0 is the initial amount, rr is the growth rate, and tt is the time in years.

Would you like a deeper dive into exponential growth models or any specific examples?

Here are 5 related questions to explore further:

  1. How do you calculate the production for a given year using the exponential model?
  2. What are the differences between exponential and linear growth?
  3. How can you calculate the annual growth rate in an exponential function?
  4. Can a quadratic function also represent growth? In what scenarios?
  5. How do you interpret the parameter rr in an exponential function?

Tip: Exponential growth can sometimes be mistaken for linear growth, but exponential growth accelerates as time passes, while linear growth adds the same amount each period.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Exponential Growth
Functions

Formulas

P(t) = P_0 * (1 + r)^t

Theorems

Exponential Growth Theorem

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-12