Question

The function f(x) = 1(3)x models the number of virus cells present in a sample after x minutes. About how many cells will be present after 1 1/2 minutes? (round to the nearest whole number)

Answer 1

The number of cells that will be present is;

`5\text{ cells}`

Step-by-step explanation:

Given that the function f(x) models the number of virus cells present in a sample after x minutes.

`f(x)=1(3)^x`

Aftere 1 1/2 minutes, the number of cells present can be calculated by substituting;

`x=1(1)/(2)`

In the model.

Substituting, we have;

`\begin{gathered} f(x)=1(3)^x \\ f(1(1)/(2))=1(3)^{1(1)/(2)} \\ f(1(1)/(2))=1(3)^(1.5) \\ f(1(1)/(2))=5.196 \\ f(1(1)/(2))\approx5 \end{gathered}`

Therefore, the number of cells that will be present is;

`5\text{ cells}`