A scientist has a sample of the radioactive isotope bismuth-212. The isotope decays exponentially as shown in the table. Time (seconds) Mass (grams) 10 26.8 20 23.9 30 21.3 40 19.0 50 16.9 60 15.1 Which equation best represents the curve of best fit for this set of data? A. f(x) = 29 • 0.989x B. f(x) = 27 • 1.011x C. f(x) = 30 • 0.989x D. f(x) = 28 • 0.234x
Question
Answer:
f(x) = 30 • 0.989x
Step-by-step explanation:
Given the data :
10 26.8
20 23.9
30 21.3
40 19
50 16.9
60 15.1
Using technology, the exponential model equation obtained by plotting the data is :
y = 30.068(0.989)^x
Based on the general exponential formula :
y = ab^x
y = predicted value
Initial value, a = 30.068
Rate = b = 0.989
The most appropriate model equation from the options given is :
f(x) = 30 • 0.989^x