$$Question: A pharmacologist models the concentration of a drug in the bloodstream with the function $ h(t) = t^2 - 4t + 5m $, where $ t $ is time in hours and $ m $ is a dosage parameter. If at $ t = 3 $, the concentration equals $ 10 $, what is the value of $ m $?
Understanding Drug Concentration: Solving for the Dosage Parameter $ m $
In pharmacokinetics, modeling drug concentration over time is essential for determining effective and safe dosages. A recent pharmacological study uses the function $ h(t) = t^2 - 4t + 5m $ to represent the concentration of a drug in the bloodstream $ t $ hours after administration. Given that at $ t = 3 $, the concentration $ h(t) $ equals 10, this article explains how to solve for the dosage parameter $ m $.
Setting Up the Equation
We are given: $$ h(t) = t^2 - 4t + 5m $$ and the condition: $$ h(3) = 10 $$
Substitute $ t = 3 $ into the function: $$ h(3) = (3)^2 - 4(3) + 5m = 10 $$ $$ 9 - 12 + 5m = 10 $$ $$ -3 + 5m = 10 $$
Solving for $ m $
Add 3 to both sides: $$ 5m = 13 $$
Divide both sides by 5: $$ m = rac{13}{5} $$
Thus, the dosage parameter $ m $ is $ rac{13}{5} $.
Why This Matters in Pharmacology
Accurate modeling of drug concentration helps clinicians optimize dosing schedules and maintain therapeutic levels without toxicity. By plugging in real-world measurements (like blood concentration at a specific time), pharmacologists use equations like $ h(t) $ to fine-tune dosage parameters—ensuring patient safety and treatment efficacy.
Final Answer
$$ oxed{ rac{13}{5}} $$
Understanding this model and solving for $ m $ enhances precision in drug therapy and reflects the vital role of mathematical modeling in modern medicine.
