Set 9: Exponential Functions (Intermediate)

Choice A is correct. Choice A is the correct answer. Apply the tripling pattern. 1. Tripling periods: $\frac{8}{2} = 4$ periods. 2. Formula: $N(t) = 500(3)^{t/2}$ where $t = 8$. 3. Calculate: $N(8) = 500(3)^4 = 500(81) = 40,500$. Strategic Tip: 4 triplings = multiply by $3^4 = 81$. Choice B is incorrect because this is after 3 triplings (6 hours). Choice C is incorrect because this is after 2 triplings (4 hours). Choice D is incorrect because this is after only 1 tripling (2 hours).