1

Set 4: Exponential Functions

Explanation

Answer: B

The temperature difference decreases by 10% every minute. If it starts at 50 degrees, what is the equation?

Temperature Decay

A.

D(t)=50(0.10)tD(t) = 50(0.10)^t

B.

D(t)=50(0.90)tD(t) = 50(0.90)^t

✓ Correct
C.

D(t)=5010tD(t) = 50 - 10t

D.

D(t)=50(1.10)tD(t) = 50(1.10)^t

Detailed Explanation

Choice B is correct. Choice B is the correct answer. Decrease of 10% means 90% remains. 1. Identify Rate: r=0.10r = 0.10. 2. Calculate Factor: b=10.10=0.90b = 1 - 0.10 = 0.90. 3. Equation: D(t)=50(0.90)tD(t) = 50(0.90)^t. Strategic Tip: Always use what remains for the base. Choice A is incorrect because 0.10 means losing 90%. Choice C is incorrect because it is linear.

Key Steps:

The correct answer is D(t)=50(0.90)tD(t) = 50(0.90)^t

Why others are wrong:
A: Choice A 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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