Question: After the Challenger disaster in 1986, a study was made of the 23 launches that preceded the fatal flight. A mathematical model was developed involving

After the Challenger disaster in 1986, a study was made of the 23 launches that preceded the fatal flight. A mathematical model was developed involving the relationship between the Fahrenheit temperature x around the O-rings and the number y of eroded or leaky primary O-rings.The model stated that

y = 1 + e (5.085–0.1156x)


where the number 6 indicates the 6 primary O-rings on the spacecraft.

(a) What is the predicted number of eroded or leaky primary O-rings at a temperature of 100°F?

(b) What is the predicted number of eroded or leaky primary O-rings at a temperature of 60°F?

(c) What is the predicted number of eroded or leaky primary O-rings at a temperature of 30°F?

(d) Graph the equation using a graphing utility. At what temperature is the predicted number of eroded or leaky O-rings 1? 3? 5?

After the Challenger disaster in 1986, a study was made

y = 1 + e (5.0850.1156x)

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