Math Problem Statement

Write an exponential function in the form Q = ab^t and identify the initial value and the growth factor. Given: Q(t) = 25 / 3^(1/3) State the initial value and the growth factor. Note: Round your answer for the growth factor to four decimal places.

Solution

The problem requires identifying the initial value and the growth factor of an exponential function given in the form Q(t)=abtQ(t) = ab^t.

The function provided is: Q(t)=25313Q(t) = \frac{25}{3^{\frac{1}{3}}}

To rewrite this in the form Q=abtQ = ab^t, we’ll analyze it as follows:

  1. Identify the Initial Value aa: The initial value is the value of QQ when t=0t = 0. Substituting t=0t = 0: Q(0)=2530=25Q(0) = \frac{25}{3^{0}} = 25 So, the initial value aa is 25.

  2. Determine the Growth Factor bb: In an exponential function of the form Q(t)=abtQ(t) = ab^t, bb represents the growth factor. From the equation, we see that b=313b = 3^{\frac{1}{3}}.

    Calculating 3133^{\frac{1}{3}} to four decimal places: 3131.44223^{\frac{1}{3}} \approx 1.4422

So, the answers are:

  • The initial value is 2525.
  • The growth factor is approximately 1.44221.4422.

Would you like a detailed explanation of each step?


Follow-up Questions:

  1. What is an exponential function, and why does it have a constant growth factor?
  2. How do you interpret a growth factor that is greater than 1 versus one that is less than 1?
  3. How can you convert an exponential decay function to a growth function?
  4. What is the significance of the initial value in an exponential function in real-world applications?
  5. How do we calculate fractional exponents, like 31/33^{1/3}, without a calculator?

Tip: To better understand exponential functions, try graphing different functions and observing the effect of changes in the initial value and growth factor.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Exponential Functions
Algebra

Formulas

Exponential function form Q = ab^t

Theorems

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Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-12