MHB Exponential functions (calculator exercise)

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on solving exponential functions, particularly the equation f(t) = g(t) involving e^(-t/20). The initial steps involve rearranging the equation to isolate terms and recognizing that algebraic solutions are not feasible. A Computer Algebra System (CAS) is suggested for finding numeric approximations, yielding t values of approximately 6.55 and 50.19. For part (b), participants are directed to analyze a graph of the function y = xe^(-x/20) + 6 to identify its maximum point. The thread emphasizes the use of technology for solving complex equations and understanding graphical interpretations.
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Hi there, I have tried to do these questions but I don't understand. Any help would be appreciated!

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Hello, and welcome to MHB! :)

Let's begin with part (a). We are to find when:

$$f(t)=g(t)$$

Or:

$$e^{-\frac{t}{20}}+10=te^{-\frac{t}{20}}+6$$

Let's subtract 6 from both sides:

$$e^{-\frac{t}{20}}+4=te^{-\frac{t}{20}}$$

And then arrange as:

$$4=te^{-\frac{t}{20}}-e^{-\frac{t}{20}}$$

[DESMOS]{"version":7,"graph":{"viewport":{"xmin":-34.31311077614891,"ymin":-11.279300231558665,"xmax":104.86022436822739,"ymax":62.76481974796097}},"randomSeed":"a115e9332f088699d9a4c7866dadfcce","expressions":{"list":[{"type":"expression","id":"1","color":"#c74440","latex":"y=4e^{\\frac{t}{20}}"},{"type":"expression","id":"2","color":"#2d70b3","latex":"y=t-1"}]}}[/DESMOS]

As we cannot solve this algebraically, we will need to rely on a CAS to generate numeric approximations:

https://www.wolframalpha.com/input/?i=4e^(t/20)=t-1
We get:

$$t\approx6.54997$$

$$t\approx50.1865$$

Now, for part (b), let's look at this graph:

[DESMOS]{"version":7,"graph":{"viewport":{"xmin":-9.635503167985057,"ymin":-15.7165503991205,"xmax":71.01286536037324,"ymax":27.190644928716516}},"randomSeed":"5093a3ded45d142de4030d436ace2162","expressions":{"list":[{"type":"expression","id":"1","color":"#c74440","latex":"y=xe^{-\\frac{x}{20}}+6\\left\\{0\\le x\\le60\\right\\}"}]}}[/DESMOS]

Click on the function's definition on the left to make it active, and you will see the maximum point on which you can click...what do you see when the point is labeled?
 
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