Question 11·Medium·Nonlinear Functions
The function is defined by . What is the value of ?
For function-evaluation questions, immediately substitute the given input into the formula and then simplify step by step, following the order of operations. Keep track of what is in the exponent versus what is a coefficient in front: the coefficient (here, 120) is multiplied at the end, while the exponent (here, ) only affects the base of the exponential (). This helps you avoid common errors such as multiplying the coefficient by numbers that belong in the exponent or changing the exponent more than the function rule allows.
Hints
Start with substitution
Where you see in the formula , replace it with to find .
Focus on the exponent
After substituting , pay attention to the product in the exponent. What simple number does that become?
Remember what equals
Once you simplify the exponent, think about the value of raised to the power you found. How does simplify?
Desmos Guide
Evaluate the function numerically and compare
In Desmos, type 120*e^(0.5*2) to get the numerical value of . Then, if you want to check which choice matches, type each option (for example, 30*e^2, 60*e, 120*e, 120*e^2) and see which one gives the same numerical value as .
Step-by-step Explanation
Substitute the given value into the function
The function is . To find , replace with : .
Simplify the exponent
Calculate : this is . So the expression becomes .
Use the fact that and identify the answer
Since , we have . This corresponds to the correct answer choice.