Question

A bird is flying at an average altitude of 10 meters above the ground. After 3 seconds, it settles on a branch that is 3 meters above the ground. Interpret the quotient to describe the rate of change in the bird’s altitude. Give your answer to the nearest hundredth and remember that the bird is descending.(1 point)
The quotient that best represents the rate of change in the bird’s altitude is
meters/second.
Remaining Attempts : 3

Answer 1

To find the rate of change in the bird's altitude, we need to calculate the change in altitude and divide it by the change in time.

1. **Initial altitude**: 10 meters
2. **Final altitude**: 3 meters
3. **Change in altitude**: \( 3 - 10 = -7 \) meters (the negative sign indicates a descent)
4. **Time taken**: 3 seconds

Now, the rate of change (quotient) can be calculated as follows:

\[
\text{Rate of change} = \frac{\text{Change in altitude}}{\text{Time}} = \frac{-7 \text{ meters}}{3 \text{ seconds}} \approx -2.33 \text{ meters/second}
\]

Thus, the quotient that best represents the rate of change in the bird’s altitude is **-2.33 meters/second**.

Remember to mention that the bird is descending while interpreting this result.