Now that we know how to represent linear functions as equations, tables, and graphs we can put this knowledge to use to solve a variety of real-world problems.
Some examples will be the best way to show you how the mathematics we have learned can be applied to everyday situations.
Buzz recorded his savings (in \text{dollars}) over a few months in the graph given.
Complete the table of values.
\text{Months} | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 |
---|---|---|---|---|
\text{Savings } \left(\$\right) |
Buzz estimates that he will have exactly \$60 in his savings by month 5. Is this true or false?
A diver starts at the surface of the water and begins to descend below the surface at a constant rate. The table below shows the depth of the diver, in yards, over 5 minutes:
\text{Number of minutes passed }\left(x\right) | 0 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
\text{Depth of diver in yards }\left(y\right) | 0 | 1.4 | 2.8 | 4.2 | 5.6 |
What is the increase in depth each minute?
Write an equation for the relationship between the number of minutes passed (x) and the depth (y) of the diver.
In the equation, y=1.4x, what does 1.4 represent?
At what depth would the diver be after 45 minutes?
We want to know how long the diver takes to reach 12.6 meters beneath the surface.
If we substitute 12.6 into the equation in part (b) we get 12.6=1.4x.
Solve this equation for x to find the time it takes.
A carpenter charges a callout fee of \$150 plus \$45 per hour.
Write an equation to represent the total amount charged, y, by the carpenter as a function of the number of hours worked, x.
What is the slope of the function?
What does this slope represent?
What is the value of the y-intercept?
What does this y-intercept represent? Select all that apply.
Find the total amount charged by the carpenter for 6 hours of work.
Linear relationships (functions) as equations, tables, and graphs can be used to solve a variety of real-world problems.