Question

Polynomial and rational functions can be used to model a wide variety of phenomena of science, technology, and everyday life. Choose one of these sectors and give an example of a polynomial or rational function modeling a situation in that sector.

Answer 1

Answer:

  L = s^2/(30.25Cd)

Step-by-step explanation:

In accident investigation, the speed of a vehicle can be estimated using a polynomial function that relates speed (s) to the length of skid marks (L). The drag coefficient Cd will depend on the condition of the road surface and tires, but might be expected to be between 0.7 and 0.8.

If the skid marks end in a collision, the length of the marks that might have been made can be estimated using this formula, then that length added to the actual length of marks to estimate the original speed. The speed at the point of collision can be estimated by the damage caused, and/or the movement created.

In the above formula, length is in feet, and speed is in miles per hour.