Math Problem Statement

A car moving at a constant speed passed a timing device at t = 0. After 9 seconds, the car has traveled 891 ft. Write a linear function rule to model the distance in feet d the car has traveled any number of seconds t after passing the timing device.

Solution

To solve this, we need to find the linear function that relates the distance dd to time tt. The problem provides:

  1. At t=0t = 0, d=0d = 0 (since the car just passed the timing device).
  2. At t=9t = 9 seconds, d=891d = 891 feet.

Step 1: Find the slope of the line

The slope mm of a linear function is calculated as: m=ΔdΔt=d2d1t2t1m = \frac{\Delta d}{\Delta t} = \frac{d_2 - d_1}{t_2 - t_1} Here: m=891090=8919=99m = \frac{891 - 0}{9 - 0} = \frac{891}{9} = 99

Step 2: Write the equation of the line

The general equation of a linear function is: d=mt+bd = mt + b Here:

  • m=99m = 99 (calculated slope)
  • b=0b = 0 (since at t=0t = 0, d=0d = 0).

Final Answer:

The linear function is: d=99td = 99t

This function models the distance dd the car has traveled in feet after tt seconds.

Do you have any questions or want further clarification?


Here are 5 related questions to expand understanding:

  1. How would the equation change if the car started 500 feet ahead of the timing device?
  2. What does the slope mm represent in real-world terms?
  3. How would you find the distance traveled after 15 seconds using the linear function?
  4. How would the equation change if the car were moving at a different constant speed?
  5. Could you use this equation to determine the time it takes to travel a specific distance?

Tip: In a linear function, the slope mm always represents the rate of change between the two variables.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Linear Functions
Slope
Rate of Change

Formulas

Slope formula: m = (d2 - d1) / (t2 - t1)
Linear equation: d = mt + b

Theorems

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Suitable Grade Level

Grades 8-10