Question

It has been estimated that a certain stream can support 96,000 fish if it is pollution-free. It has further been estimated that for each ton of pollutants in the stream, 1100 fewer fish can be supported. Assuming that the relationship is linear, write the equation that gives the population of fish p in terms of the tons of pollutants x

Answer 1

Answer:

p = 96,000 - 1100x

Step-by-step explanation:

If p (population of fish) is equal to 96,000 therefore P = 96,000

If it is reduced by 1100 for each ton of pollutants (x) then P = 96,000 - 1100x

Each ton is represented by x so for example if 5 tons of pollutants are added to the stream, the population of fish P will be 96,000 - 1100(5) = 90,500. This will also hold true for decimals since it is an estimate for example if 26.5 tons of pollutants are added to the stream, the population of fish P will be 96,000 - 1100(26.5) = 66,850.