Modelling with Functions

What is a mathematical model?

A mathematical model simplifies a real-world situation so it can be described using mathematics
- The model can then be used to make predictions
Assumptions about the situation are made in order to simplify the mathematics
Models can be refined (improved) if further information is available or if the model is compared to real-world data

How do I set up the model?

The question could:
- give you the equation of the model
- tell you about the relationship
  - It might say the relationship is linear, quadratic, etc
- ask you to suggest a suitable model
  - Use your knowledge of each model
  - E.g. if it is compound interest then an exponential model is the most appropriate
You may have to determine a reasonable domain
- Consider real-life context
  - E.g. if dealing with hours in a day then
  - E.g. if dealing with physical quantities (such as length) then
- Consider the possible ranges
  - If the outcome cannot be negative then you want to choose a domain which corresponds to a range with no negative values
  - Sketching the graph is helpful to determine a suitable domain

Which models might I need to use?

You could be given any model and be expected to use it
Common models include:
- Linear
  - Arithmetic sequences
  - Linear regression
- Quadratic
  - Projectile motion
  - The height of a cable supporting a bridge
  - Profit
- Exponential
  - Geometric sequences
  - Exponential growth and decay
  - Compound interest
- Logarithmic
  - Richter scale for the magnitude of earthquakes
- Rational
  - Temperature of a cup of coffee
- Trigonometric
  - The depth of a tide

How do I use a model?

You can use a model by substituting in values for the variable to estimate outputs
- For example: Let h(t) be the height of a football t seconds after being kicked
  - h(3) will be an estimate for the height of the ball 3 seconds after being kicked
Given an output you can form an equation with the model to estimate the input
- For example: Let P(n) be the profit made by selling n items
  - Solving P(n) = 100 will give you an estimate for the number of items needing to be sold to make a profit of 100
If your variable is time then substituting t = 0 will give you the initial value according to the model
Fully understand the units for the variables
- If the units of P are measured in thousand dollars then P = 3 represents $3000
Look out for key words such as:
- Initially
- Minimum/maximum
- Limiting value

What do I do if some of the parameters are unknown?

A general method is to form equations by substituting in given values
- You can form multiple equations and solve them simultaneously using your GDC
- This method works for all models
The initial value is the value of the function when the variable is 0
- This is normally one of the parameters in the equation of the model

Worked example

The temperature, $T$ °C, of a cup of coffee is monitored. Initially the temperature is 80°C and 5 minutes later it is 40°C . It is suggested that the temperature follows the model:

$T (t) = A e^{k t} + 16, t \geq 0$ .

where $t$ is the time, in minutes, after the coffee has been made.

State the value of

A

2-4-4-ib-aa-sl-modelling-func-a-we-solution

Find the exact value of

k

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Find the time taken for the temperature of the coffee to reach 30°C.

2-4-4-ib-aa-sl-modelling-func-c-we-solution

Modelling with Functions (DP IB Maths: AA HL)

Revision Note