Question the-st

3.4 Two-Variable Data & Models - Line of best fit
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The sterplot shows the relationship between two variables, x and y . A line of best fit is also shown.

  • The sterplot has 5 data points.
  • The data points are in a linear pattern trending down from left to right.
  • A line of best fit is shown:
    • The line of best fit slants down from left to right.
    • The line of best fit passes through the following approximate coordinates:
      • (0 comma 14.1)
      • (12.7 comma 0)

Which of the following is closest to the slope of this line of best fit?

A.

-3.3

B.

-1.1

C.

1.1

D.

3.3

The sterplot shows the relationship between two variables, x and y . A line of best

Hard-difficulty · SAT Math · Two-Variable Data & Models — Line of best fit. Read the question above, select your answer, and check the full explanation below to understand exactly why the correct choice works.

Answer explanation

Choice B is correct. A line in the xy-plane that passes through points x1,y1 and x2,y2 has a slope of y2-y1x2-x1. The line of best fit shown passes approximately through the points 0,14 and 13,0. It follows that the slope of this line of best fit is approximately 0-1413-0, or -1413. Of the given choices, - 1.1 is closest to -1413.

Choice A is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice D is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.