Final answer:
The formula for the cost of a single flash drive is given by a) Cost = 156 - 13t.
Step-by-step explanation:
To find the formula for the cost of a single flash drive, we can use the concept of linear depreciation. Let's assume that the cost of a single flash drive decreases by a certain amount each year. We can set up a linear equation using the given information.
In 2001, a flash drive cost $156. In 2017, a pack of ten flash drives can be purchased for $27. Let's assign the year 2001 as t=0 and the year 2017 as t=16.
Using the two points (0, 156) and (16, 27), we can find the slope of the line: (27-156)/(16-0) = -129/16 = -8.06. The slope represents the rate of decrease in cost per year.
The equation for the cost of a single flash drive would be: Cost = 156 - (8.06*t).
Therefore the correct formula for the cost of a single flash drive is A. Cost = 156 - 13t.