Big Ideas Math Integrated I, 2016
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Big Ideas Math Integrated I, 2016 View details
1. Exponential Functions
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Exercise 51 Page 280

Practice makes perfect
a We want to write an exponential function representing the number y of visitors to an art gallery after x months. We know that any exponential function has the form below.
y= a( b)^x

Here, a is the y-intercept and b is the constant multiplier.

We see that 40 is the y-intercept, so a= 40. y= a(b)^x ⇔ y= 40(b)^x The point ( 1, 60) is on the curve. Using this point we can find b.
y=40(b)^x
60=40(b)^1
â–Ľ
Solve for b
60=40(b)
60/40=b
1.5=b
b=1.5
The constant multiplier of the function is 1.5. y=40( b)^x ⇔ y=40( 1.5)^x This function represents the situation.
b To find the number of visitors after 5 years, we will substitute 5 for x.
y=40(1.5)^x
y=40(1.5)^5
â–Ľ
Simplify right-hand side
y=40(7.59375)
y=303.75
y=304
The approximate number of visitors after 5 month will be 304.