Elementary and Intermediate Algebra: Concepts & Applications (6th Edition)

Published by Pearson
ISBN 10: 0-32184-874-8
ISBN 13: 978-0-32184-874-1

Chapter 12 - Exponential Functions and Logarithmic Functions - 12.7 Applications of Exponential Functions and Logarithmic Functions - 12.7 Exercise Set - Page 837: 51

Answer

No, the model is not useful to predict the spread of a rumor after 1 month.

Work Step by Step

$N\left( t \right)=20{{\left( 3 \right)}^{t}}$ …… (1) Now, put the value of $t$ in equation-1 as, $\begin{align} & N\left( t \right)=20{{\left( 3 \right)}^{t}} \\ & N\left( 30 \right)=20{{\left( 3 \right)}^{30}} \\ & N\left( 30 \right)=4.1\times {{10}^{15}} \end{align}$ Thus, the number of people who heard the rumor after 1 month is $1.4\times {{10}^{15}}$; this number is very large and also exceeds the population of the U.S., so this number is not realistic. Therefore, the model is not useful to predict the spread of the rumor after one month.
Update this answer!

You can help us out by revising, improving and updating this answer.

Update this answer

After you claim an answer you’ll have 24 hours to send in a draft. An editor will review the submission and either publish your submission or provide feedback.