Final answer:
The function y = 400(1 – 0.17)x could model exponential decay situations like depreciation of a car's value, decay of a radioactive substance, or loan balance decrease with constant percentage repayments.
Step-by-step explanation:
The function y = 400(1 – 0.17)x represents an exponential decay model where the initial amount is 400 and it decreases by 17% each time unit x increases. This type of function could be used to model a variety of situations that involve a steady percentage decrease over time, such as the depreciation of a car's value, the decay of a radioactive substance, or the balance of a loan decreasing with constant percentage payments.