3-21. Excel Application: Analyzing Growth in Computer Storage CapacitiesSince the computer hard drive was invented in 1956, a constantly increasing data storage capacity has been available at an eve

3-21.   Excel Application: Analyzing Growth in Computer Storage CapacitiesSince the computer hard drive was invented in 1956, a constantly increasing data storage capacity has been available at an ever-decreasing cost. Use the historical data of hard drive capacities and prices shown in Figure 3-29 (or download the Excel file named CH03Ex01). Modify the spreadsheet so that it includes a new column containing formulas that calculate a common measure of disk size (GB) and a second new column that computes the cost per GB for each year. (Recall 1 gigabyte = 1,024 megabytes; 1 terabyte = 1,024 gigabytes.) Now, create one line graph to show the cost per gigabyte from the period 1995 to 2016. Create a second line graph to show changes in the size of hard disks across the same period. (Tip: Use the “Hide” function to cover the columns you don’t need for each graph.) Write a brief summary of the trends you found. What factors have contributed to these trends? What are the implications of these trends?

Students should download the Excel file named Ch03Ex01, convert disk size to a common measure (Size in GB), and use a formula to calculate price (Price per GB). To create the first line chart, plot Price per GB by Year (1995-2016).. To create the second line chart, plot the GB by Year (1995-2016)..