Solve the problem.
-The polynomial gives the approximate total earnings of a company, in millions of dollars, where x represents the number of years since 1996. This model is valid for the years from
1996 to 2000. Determine the earnings for 2000. Round to 2 decimal places.
A) $2.03 million
B) $2.26 million
C) $2.36 million
D) $2.82 million

Question

Solve the problem.
-The polynomial  gives the approximate total earnings of a company, in millions of dollars, where x represents the number of years since 1996. This model is valid for the years from
1996 to 2000. Determine the earnings for 2000. Round to 2 decimal places.
A) $2.03 million 
B) $2.26 million 
C) $2.36 million 
D) $2.82 million

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Since the polynomial represents the earnings in millions of dollars and x represents the number of years since 1996, the earnings for 2000 will be given by substituting x = 4 (since 2000 is 4 years after 1996) into the polynomial. Simplifying the polynomial using a calculator, we get the result as $2.36 million (rounded to 2 decimal places). Therefore, the best choice is C. Since the model is valid for the years from 1996 to 2000, we need to find the value of the polynomial when x = 4 (since 2000 is 4 years after 1996). Substituting x = 4 into the polynomial yields 2.36, so the earnings for 2000 were approximately $2.36 million. Therefore, the correct choice is C.

Solve the Problem. -The Polynomial Gives the Approximate Total Earnings of a Earnings