16Hit1600
Advanced MathMediumRewriting an exponential model with a different base

Advanced Math practice question

The function P is defined by P(t) = 500 · 4^(t/2). Which of the following is equal to P(t) for all t?

  1. A. 500 · 2ᵗCorrect
  2. B. 500 · 2^(t/2)
  3. C. 250 · 4ᵗ
  4. D. 500 · 8ᵗ

Answer: A. 500 · 2ᵗ

4^(t/2) = (4^(1/2))ᵗ = 2ᵗ, so P(t) = 500 · 2ᵗ.

Why the other answers are wrong

B. 500 · 2^(t/2)
2^(t/2) = 4^(t/4), a slower growth.
C. 250 · 4ᵗ
Halving the coefficient does not change the base.
D. 500 · 8ᵗ
8ᵗ grows far faster than 4^(t/2).

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