Question

Suppose the calculation time, T, of a computer varies inversely with the processor speed, P. If the calculation time is 2.8 seconds for a processor with 4.5 kpm, what is the calculation time for a computer with a processor speed of 3 kpm?

A) 4.2 seconds

B) 5.6 seconds

C) 2.1 seconds

D) 1.4 seconds

Answer 1

The calculation time for a computer with a processor speed of 3 kpm is 4.2 seconds, as the calculation time and processor speed have an inverse relationship.

Step-by-step explanation:

If the calculation time, T, of a computer varies inversely with the processor speed, P, then we can say that T × P = k, where k is the constant of variation. Given that T is 2.8 seconds when P is 4.5 kpm, we can find k by multiplying these two values together: k = 2.8 × 4.5 = 12.6. To find the new calculation time for a processor speed of 3 kpm, we use the formula T = k / P, substituting in our values gives us T = 12.6 / 3 = 4.2 seconds.

The calculation time for a processor speed of 3 kpm is 4.2 seconds, which corresponds to option A.