IB skill practice

Interpret eigenvalues in long-term models

Use dominant eigenvalue or scaling behaviour to interpret repeated matrix action.

Paper 1, Paper 2 5 marks Difficulty 3

Interpret eigenvalues in long-term models - calculation checkpoint

A school canteen growth matrix has dominant eigenvalue \(1.1\). If the long-term pattern has scaled to 46 units this year, estimate the corresponding scaled amount next year. This version asks for the same mathematical quantity after confirming the method from the context. Enter the requested value and choose the interpretation that matches the result.

Worked practice: result and interpretation

Calculate the requested result first, then choose the interpretation that follows from it.