The following table gives the total world wind energy capacity (in megawatts) in recent years.

a. Let t be the number of years since 2000, and C the capacity (in MW). Find functions of the form C = mt + b, C = at² + b, and C= ab^t that fit the data at 2001 and 2009.

b. Use a graphing calculator to plot the data in the table and to graph the three functions found in part a. Which function best fits the data?

c. If you have a graphing calculator or computer program with an exponential regression feature, use it to find an exponential function that approximately fits the data in the table. How does this answer compare with the answer to part b?

d. Using the three functions from part b and the function from part c, predict the total world wind capacity in 2010. Compare these with the World Wind Energy Association’s prediction of 203,500.

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Year Capacity (MW) 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 24,322 31,181 39,295 47,693 58,024 74,122 93,930 120,903 159,213