Modeling Sugar Dissolution in Hot Water: Finding the Decay Rate

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The discussion focuses on modeling the dissolution of sugar in hot water using the equation S(t) = S0e^−kt. The initial mass of sugar is 7 grams, and after 5 minutes, the mass reduces to 3.5 grams, indicating it has halved. Participants clarify that the decay constant k can be determined by substituting known values into the equation. The correct interpretation of the problem is crucial for finding k accurately. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding the mathematical model and its parameters.
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A spoonful of sugar is dissolving in hot water. The initial mass of the sugar was 7 grams
and 5 minutes later the mass present had halved. The mass of sugar, S grams, at time
t minutes after it was placed in the hot water can be modeled by S(t) = S0e^−kt, t ≥ 0.

b Find the exact value of k.
S0=7
therefore
i sub it in the equation where i got :
S(t)= 7e^-5k
what does S(t) equals? does it equals to 35?



thank you
 
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So the model is

s\left( t \right) = s\left( 0 \right)e^{ - kt}.

You already know s(0), that's 7. That leaves one unknown parameter, k. But you have extra information, s(5) = 3.5, let's plug this in:

3.5 = 7e^{ - k5}

Can you solve for k?
 
oh okai i did not read the question properly. it do not see the halving part.
thank you anywayz
 
You're welcome :smile:
 

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