Question

The value, y, in USD of a particular stock for 4 days, x, is shown in the table.

days 0 1 2 3 4
stock value ($)
19.2 6.3 2 6.3 19.2
What type of function could be used to model the value, y, of the stock as a function of time, x?

(1 point)
Responses

exponential decay function
exponential decay function

exponential growth function
exponential growth function

linear function
linear function

quadratic function

Answer 1

To determine the type of function that could best model the stock values provided in the table, let's examine the data points:

- Day 0: $19.2
- Day 1: $6.3
- Day 2: $2.0
- Day 3: $6.3
- Day 4: $19.2

The values decrease from $19.2 to $2.0, and then rise back to $19.2. This pattern suggests that the stock value decreases initially, then increases again, indicating a non-linear behavior that is not consistent with linear or exponential functions.

Given this information, the stock values appear to show a cyclical or periodic pattern rather than a simple exponential growth or decay or a linear relationship. Thus, a quadratic function might be appropriate as it can model a parabolic shape, potentially capturing the rise and fall of the stock values.

Therefore, based on the provided data, the most suitable response would be:

**quadratic function**