Are my answers correct? Quadratic and logarithmic modeling

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around developing equations to model two replacement pack options using quadratic and logarithmic functions. Participants explore the setup of these models, including monthly access fees, included gigabytes, and costs for additional gigabytes.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Debate/contested
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant proposes a quadratic model as y=(0.5(x-20))^2+20 for x>20 and a logarithmic model as y=30+0.5*ln|x-25| for x>25.
  • Another participant suggests using a general form for the quadratic model as f(x)=ax^2+b and provides equations based on specific conditions for gigabytes used.
  • There are discussions about the correct values for parameters a and b in both models, with some participants providing calculations and others questioning the steps taken.
  • Some participants express confusion about the logarithmic model and how to derive the correct values for a and b, leading to further clarification attempts.
  • One participant mentions using numeric root-finding techniques to find intersection points of the models, while others suggest using graphing calculators for accuracy.
  • There are multiple attempts to clarify the logarithmic model's setup, with participants correcting each other's equations and discussing the implications of their choices.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the correctness of the logarithmic model, with some asserting errors in calculations while others provide alternative approaches. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the final forms of the models and their parameters.

Contextual Notes

Participants express uncertainty about specific calculations and the implications of their assumptions, particularly in the logarithmic model. There are also mentions of needing to clarify the domains for the models.

Who May Find This Useful

Students working on mathematical modeling, particularly in the context of quadratic and logarithmic functions, may find this discussion beneficial.

  • #31
Thanks!

I have one more graph to do.

I have to do it without the included gigabytes.

Here is what i got:

Quadratic model : f(x) 1/82 x2

domain: x>0

Logarithmic model : f(x) (30 - 1/2ln (26/25) Ln(x)

domain: no idea.

looking forward to your repsonse!
 
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  • #32
Re: Are my answer correct?

For the quadratic model, you want:

$$f(x)=ax^2+b$$

where:

$$f(0)=a(0)^2+b=b=20$$

$$f(1)=a(1)^2+b=a+b=20.5$$

I would solve by substitution.

For the logarithmic model, we will have to pick a value with which to shift the graph to the left since $\ln(0)$ is undefined.

I would choose:

$$f(x)=a+b\ln(x+1)$$

where:

$$f(0)=a+b\ln(0+1)=a=30$$

$$f(1)=a+b\ln(1+1)=a+b\ln(2)=30.5$$

I would use substitution here as well.
 
  • #33
Answers:

1) f(x) = 0.5x^2 + 20
2) f(x)=30+0.72[ln(x+1)1) f(x)=ax2+b
f(0)=a(0)2+b=b=20
f(1)=a(1)2+b=a+b=20.5 => a = 20.5 - 20 = 0.5 so,
f(x)=ax2+b f(x) = 0.5x^2 + 20

2) f(x)=a+bln(x+1)
f(0)=a+bln(0+1)=a=30
f(1)=a+bln(1+1)=a+bln(2)=30.5 =>b = (30.5-30) / lin(2) = 0.7213475204, so,
f(x)=a+bln(x+1) f(x)=30+0.72[ln(x+1)]
 
  • #34
Looks good, although I would choose to express the parameter $b$ for the logarithmic model in exact form:

$$f(x)=30+\frac{\ln(x+1)}{2\ln(2)}$$

This would allow you to use the change of base formula to write:

$$f(x)=30+\log_4(x+1)$$

You probably want to stick with the first form though for using the computer to generate a graph.
 
  • #35
the graph was going to be my next question! - sorry for being a pain in the butt. :p

How would would i put my answers into WA?
 
  • #36
needalgebra said:
the graph was going to be my next question! - sorry for being a pain in the butt. :p

How would would i put my answers into WA?

Use the command:

y=x^2/2+20,y=30+ln(x+1)/(2ln(2)) where x=0 to 8
 
  • #37
why is logarithmic model pretty much staying the same...

they're both supposed to go up by 50 cents, same amount.

im confused
 
  • #38
The both go up by 50 cents for the first gigabyte, but only a linear function will change at a constant rate.
 

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