SOLUTION: The function f(x)=20(0.975)^x models the percentage of the surface sunlight, f(x), that reaches a depth of x feet beneath the surface of the ocean. Use the function f(x) to algebra

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Question 1188014: The function f(x)=20(0.975)^x models the percentage of the surface sunlight, f(x), that reaches a depth of x feet beneath the surface of the ocean. Use the function f(x) to algebraically determine the depth, to the nearest hundredths of the foot, there is a 10% of surface sunlight. Use logarithms.
Answer by ikleyn(53937)   (Show Source): You can put this solution on YOUR website!
.
The function f(x)=20(0.975)^x models the percentage of the surface sunlight, f(x),
that reaches a depth of x feet beneath the surface of the ocean.
Use the function f(x) to algebraically determine the depth, to the nearest hundredths
of the foot, there is a 10% of surface sunlight. Use logarithms.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

According to the function, at the ocean surface x = 0, the intencity of sunlight is 20 units.


10% os 20 units is 2 units, so we write this equation


    2 = ,


divide by 20 both sides


     = 

      0.1 = 


take logarithm base 10 of both sides


    log(0.1) = x*log(0.975)

      -1     = x*log(0.975)


anf get

      x     =   = 90.95   (rounded as requested).


ANSWER.  This depth is  90.95 ft.

Solved.



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