Question

The function f(x) = 1(3)x models the number of virus cells present in a sample after x minutes. About how many cells will be present after 1 1/2 minutes? (round to the nearest whole number)

Answer 1

Answer:

The number of cells that will be present is;

$5\text{ cells}$

Explanation:

Given that the function f(x) models the number of virus cells present in a sample after x minutes.

$f(x)=1(3)^x$

Aftere 1 1/2 minutes, the number of cells present can be calculated by substituting;

$x=1\frac{1}{2}$

In the model.

Substituting, we have;

$\begin{gathered} f(x)=1(3)^x \\ f(1\frac{1}{2})=1(3)^{1\frac{1}{2}} \\ f(1\frac{1}{2})=1(3)^{1.5} \\ f(1\frac{1}{2})=5.196 \\ f(1\frac{1}{2})\approx5 \end{gathered}$

Therefore, the number of cells that will be present is;

$5\text{ cells}$