Answer to Question #3662 in Algebra for tami

Question

I need help on this question. A culture of bacteria grew from 320 to 780 in 5 hours. If this growth continues at this rate then how long will it take the population to triple?

Answer 1

Let`s assume that bacteria culture grow linearly.
x₀ = 320, t = 5h, y₁ = 780
y = αx₀ t => α = y₁/(x₀ t) = 780/(320*5) = 0.4875
y = 3x₀ = αx₀ t => t = (3x₀)/(αx₀) = 3/α = 3/0.4875 = 80/13
So, the population will triple after 80/13 hours.