Example 1 from Algebra and Trigonometry, 4.1 Linear Functions

Using a Linear Function to Find the Pressure on a Diver

The pressure, $P,$ in pounds per square inch (PSI) on the diver in Figure 4 depends upon her depth below the water surface, $d,$ in feet. This relationship may be modeled by the equation, $P (d) = 0.434 d + 14.696.$ Restate this function in words.

Figure 4 (credit: Ilse Reijs and Jan-Noud Hutten)

Work it out on paper first. Then open the solution one step at a time, and stop as soon as you can finish on your own.

Solution
To restate the function in words, we need to describe each part of the equation. The pressure as a function of depth equals four hundred thirty-four thousandths times depth plus fourteen and six hundred ninety-six thousandths.

How did it go?

Solution

Solution