Question

Suppose that the weight (in pounds) of an airplane is a linear function of the amount of fuel (in gallons) in its tank. When carrying 10 gallons of fuel, the airplane weighs 2165 pounds. When carrying 44 gallons of fuel, it weighs 2386 pounds. How much does the airplane weigh if it is carrying 48 gallons of fuel?

Answer 1

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You have two points relating fuel and weight.

(15,2187) and (35,2303)

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slope = (2303-2187)/(35-15) = 5.8

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intercept = ?

2187 = 5.8*15 + b

b = 2100

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Equation:

f(x) = 5.8x + 2100

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f(50) = 2390 lbs.

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