The graph of represents the rate of change of rainfall during a severe thunderstorm t hours after rainfall began. Draw a graph of the total amount of rain that fell during this storm, using the following facts: The rainfall started at 2 P.M. and did not stop until 8 P.M. 2 inches of rain fell between 2 P.M. and 5 P.M. The total amount of rain that fell during the storm was 5.2 inches.

Question

The graph of  represents the rate of change of rainfall during a severe thunderstorm t hours after rainfall began. Draw a graph of the total amount of rain that fell during this storm, using the following facts:  The rainfall started at 2 P.M. and did not stop until 8 P.M.  2 inches of rain fell between 2 P.M. and 5 P.M.  The total amount of rain that fell during the storm was 5.2 inches.

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

According to the given information, between 2 P.M. and 5 P.M., 2 inches of rain fell. This shows a constant rate of change of rainfall during this period. Therefore, the graph of the total amount of rain that fell during this period would be a straight line that starts at 0 inches at 2 P.M. and ends at 2 inches at 5 P.M.

Between 5 P.M. and 8 P.M., the rate of change of rainfall is not given. However, we know that the total amount of rain that fell during the storm was 5.2 inches. Therefore, the graph of the total amount of rain that fell during this period would be a curved line that starts at 2 inches at 5 P.M. and ends at 5.2 inches at 8 P.M.

Choice B is the best choice because it shows a straight line for the period between 2 P.M. and 5 P.M. and a curved line for the period between 5 P.M. and 8 P.M., which accurately reflects the given information.

The Graph of Represents the Rate of Change of Rainfall