Question

In 1993, Americans recycled 43.8 million tons of solid waste. In 2001, the figure grew to
68.0 million tons. Let N (t) = the number of tons recycled, in millions, and t = the number of years since 1993.

a) Find a linear function that fits the data.












b) Use the function of part (a) to estimate the amount
recycled in 2005.

Answer 1

A) 2001-1993 = 8 years
68-43.8 =24.2 million growth
24.2/8 = 3.015
y=3.015x + 43.8

Answer 2

B) 2005 -1993 = 12 years
y= 3.015 x 12 +43.8
y = 79.98 tons