Final answer:
The volume of the ice cube at t hours after freezing begins is given by V(t) = (2+t)^3. The surface area as a function of time is A(t) = 12+6t. The surface area will equal 216 square inches after 34 hours.
Step-by-step explanation:
Part A: To find the volume at t hours after freezing begins, we need to use the formula V(s) = s^3, where s is the side length of the ice cube. Given that the side length is s(t) = 2+t, we can substitute this expression into the formula to get V(t) = (2+t)^3.
Part B: To find the surface area as a function of time, we need to use the composition of functions. The surface area of the ice cube is given by A(s) = 6s. Substituting s(t) = 2+t into this equation, we get A(t) = 6(2+t) = 12+6t.
Part C: To find the time when the surface area equals 216 square inches, we set A(t) = 216 and solve for t. 12+6t = 216 ⇒ 6t = 204 ⇒ t = 34. Therefore, the surface area will equal 216 square inches after 34 hours.