Chapter 4: Problem 56
Monthly normal rainfall data \((x, y)\) for Portland, Oregon, are \((4,2.47),(7,0.58),(8,1.07),\) where \(x\) represents time in months (with \(x=1\) representing January) and \(y\) represents rainfall in inches. Find the values of \(a, b,\) and \(c\) rounded to 2 decimal places such that the equation \(y=a x^{2}+b x+c\) models this data. According to your model, how much rain should Portland expect during September? (Source: National Climatic Data Center)
Short Answer
Step by step solution
- Set up the system of equations
- Solve the system of equations
Step 2.1 - Elimination of variable c
- Solve for a and b
- Solve for c
- Calculate rainfall for September
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Key Concepts
These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.
System of Equations
- Given multiple data points, we use these to set individual equations.
- Each point plugged into the general form of the quadratic model \( y = ax^{2} + bx + c \) helps to form these equations.
Solving Equations
- Substitution: Solve one equation for one variable and substitute into another equation to simplify the system.
- Elimination: Adjust the equations to eliminate one variable, making it easier to find the values for the others.
Quadratic Models
- Coefficient \( a \): Determines the curvature direction (upwards or downwards) of the parabola.
- Coefficient \( b \): Controls the tilt or slope of the parabola, affecting how data increases or decreases.
- Constant \( c \): Directly affects the parabola's vertical position along the y-axis.
Data Modeling
- Utilizing Data Points: Values like \((4, 2.47), (7, 0.58), (8, 1.07)\) inform how the model is shaped and adjusted.
- Prediction: Once parameters are determined, we can input new values to predict outcomes for months not directly measured.