Question: A climatologist models the annual rainfall $ R(t) $ in millimeters as a quadratic function of time $ t $ (in years since 2020). Given $ R(1) = 900 $, $ R(2) = 950 $, and $ R(3) = 1100 $, find the quadratic polynomial $ R(t) $.

Sun, 10 May 2026 01:00:41 +0000

**1. Introduction: Why Rainfall Patterns Design the Data** As climate shifts reshape weather systems across the U.S., understanding rainfall trends has never been more critical. The annual amount of rain—measured in millimeters—reveals subtle but powerful clues about shifting seasons, drought risks, and agricultural planning. Recent modeling by climatologists shows rainfall patterns are increasingly aligned with quadratic trends: a slow rise, an unexpected surge, and patterns that defy linear expectations. This is why a simple equation modeling annual rainfall as a quadratic function—$ R(t) $—now draws real attention. By fitting data from 2021 to 2023, modelers uncover how much precipitation grows over time. This search—about how rainfall evolves quadratically—reflects growing curiosity about reliable forecasts and climate adaptation strategies. This question matter: Can a math-based model truly predict the rhythms of rain? Yes—when grounded in real data. ---