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[link] shows a recent graduate’s credit card balance each month after graduation.
Month | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 |
Debt ($) | 620.00 | 761.88 | 899.80 | 1039.93 | 1270.63 | 1589.04 | 1851.31 | 2154.92 |
Is it reasonable to assume that an exponential regression model will represent a situation indefinitely?
No. Remember that models are formed by real-world data gathered for regression. It is usually reasonable to make estimates within the interval of original observation (interpolation). However, when a model is used to make predictions, it is important to use reasoning skills to determine whether the model makes sense for inputs far beyond the original observation interval (extrapolation).
Just as with exponential functions, there are many real-world applications for logarithmic functions: intensity of sound, pH levels of solutions, yields of chemical reactions, production of goods, and growth of infants. As with exponential models, data modeled by logarithmic functions are either always increasing or always decreasing as time moves forward. Again, it is the way they increase or decrease that helps us determine whether a logarithmic model is best.
Recall that logarithmic functions increase or decrease rapidly at first, but then steadily slow as time moves on. By reflecting on the characteristics we’ve already learned about this function, we can better analyze real world situations that reflect this type of growth or decay. When performing logarithmic regression analysis , we use the form of the logarithmic function most commonly used on graphing utilities, For this function
Logarithmic regression is used to model situations where growth or decay accelerates rapidly at first and then slows over time. We use the command “LnReg” on a graphing utility to fit a logarithmic function to a set of data points. This returns an equation of the form,
Note that
Given a set of data, perform logarithmic regression using a graphing utility.
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