Math Problem Statement

An approximate linear model that gives the remaining distance, in miles, a plane must travel from Los Angeles to Paris is given by s(t) = 5500 − 500t where s(t) is the remaining distance t hours after the flight begins. Find the intercepts on the vertical and horizontal axes.

Solution

To find the intercepts of the linear model s(t)=5500500ts(t) = 5500 - 500t, we need to determine both the vertical and horizontal intercepts.

  1. Vertical Intercept (s-axis): This occurs when t=0t = 0: s(0)=5500500(0)=5500s(0) = 5500 - 500(0) = 5500 Therefore, the vertical intercept is (0,5500)(0, 5500).

  2. Horizontal Intercept (t-axis): This occurs when s(t)=0s(t) = 0: 0=5500500t0 = 5500 - 500t Solving for tt: 500t=5500t=5500500=11500t = 5500 \quad \Rightarrow \quad t = \frac{5500}{500} = 11 Therefore, the horizontal intercept is (11,0)(11, 0).

Summary of Intercepts:

  • Vertical Intercept: (0,5500)(0, 5500)
  • Horizontal Intercept: (11,0)(11, 0)

Would you like more details or have any questions? Here are some related questions you might find interesting:

  1. What does the slope of the line represent in this context?
  2. How can we interpret the distance remaining after 5 hours?
  3. What would the remaining distance be after 11 hours?
  4. If the plane travels at a different speed, how would the equation change?
  5. How can we graph this linear model?

Tip: When analyzing linear equations, the intercepts provide key insights into the relationship between the variables.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Linear Equations
Intercepts

Formulas

s(t) = 5500 - 500t

Theorems

Concept of intercepts in linear equations

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-10