Here’s a simple example of a function: A dozen always consists of 12 units. So, if you were buying two dozen eggs, you’d be buying
In the following practice questions, you have to use a function to find a missing value in a table, and then figure out how energy is affected by a change in mass, based on Einstein’s equation (that is, function) for the speed of light.
Practice questions
The first question refers to the following table.- Herman developed the following function to amuse himself: F = 2a + 3b2 – 2ab. He kept track of his results in this table. Using Herman’s function, what is the value of x?
A. 53 B. –82 C. 88 D. 30
- Consider the equation E = mc2. If the value of m triples and the value of c remains constant, the effect on E would be how many times larger?
A. 9 times larger B. 27 times larger C. 3 times larger D. the same
Answers and explanations
- The correct answer is Choice (D).
Using Herman’s function, x = 2(3)– 3(4)(4) – 2(3)(4) = 6 + 48 – 24 = 30.
- The correct answer is Choice (C).
This question tests your knowledge of equations by asking you to analyze how a change in one quantity in an exponential equation, E = mc2, results in a change in another quantity. The variation between E and m in this function is linear and direct, which means that whatever happens to m also happens to E. If m is 3 times larger, so is E.