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Set 9: Exponential Functions (Advanced)

Explanation

Answer: A

Which function represents a value that decreases by 50% each year?

A.

y=100(0.5)ty = 100(0.5)^t

✓ Correct
B.

y=100(1.5)ty = 100(1.5)^t

C.

y=100(50)ty = 100(50)^t

D.

y=100(0.05)ty = 100(0.05)^t

Detailed Explanation

Choice A is correct. Choice A is the correct answer. Decrease of 50% means factor is 0.5. 1. Identify Rate: r=0.50r = 0.50. 2. Calculate Factor: b=10.50=0.50b = 1 - 0.50 = 0.50. 3. Equation: y=100(0.5)ty = 100(0.5)^t. Strategic Tip: Losing 50% is the same as keeping 50%. This is also called half-life. Choice B is incorrect because 1.5 means 50% growth. Choice D is incorrect because 0.05 means losing 95%.

Key Steps:

The correct answer is y=100(0.5)ty = 100(0.5)^t

Why others are wrong:
B: Choice B is incorrect and may result from a calculation error.
C: Choice C is incorrect and may result from a calculation error.
D: Choice D is incorrect and may result from a calculation error.

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