Name______Mod______Date______

LAB: Relations, Functions, and Cedar Point

In the real world, there are thousands, if not millions, of examples of relationships between two objects that may or may not seem related. In this lab, you will analyze the data of different roller coasters at Cedar Point. Given the maximum height and maximum speed of the selected roller coasters, is it possible to deduce a relationship between the two?

Step 1: Gather the data and formulate a table.

Roller Coaster Maximum Height Maximum Speed

Step 2: Plot the data on a coordinate graph. Be sure to label the x-axis and y-axis appropriately by the content of the points. If possible, connect the points to make a curve. Step 3: Analyze, Evaluate, and Make Conclusions about the Graph.

1) Is there a relationship between the maximum height and the maximum speed of the roller coasters at Cedar Point? If so, describe that relationship.

2) Is the relationship a function? Hint: Use the vertical line test.

3) Is it possible to write an equation for the graph? Try to match the data to one of these equations. It may not be exact; however, which one is the closest match for all roller coasters? Hint: You must find the value of k after substituting values in for s and h!! The “winning” equation will have similar values for k for all the roller coasters (even to 3 decimals places!). Formula #1 Formula #2 Formula #3 Roller Coaster s = s = k (60 – h) s = k (60 – h2)

4) List here any final observations you have made regarding this activity. Also, state anything unique or fascinating you found about roller coasters and the relationship between speed and height. 5) How has this lab either changed your view or enhanced your perspective on how relations and functions relate to the world that surrounds us?