Decide Whether the Following Problem Can Be Solved Using Precalculus

Multiple Choice

Decide whether the following problem can be solved using precalculus, or whether calculus is required. If the problem can be solved using precalculus, solve it. If the problem seems to require calculus, use a graphical or numerical approach to estimate the solution. ​
A cyclist is riding on a path whose elevation is modeled by the function where x and are measured in miles. Find the rate of change of elevation when x = 3.
​

A) calculus, 0.72
B) precalculus, 0.12
C) calculus, 0.12
D) precalculus, 0.72
E) precalculus, 0.37