The question asks about the meaning of the number $2.36$ in the equation $h = 2.36f + 55.4$, where $h$ represents the expected height in centimeters and $f$ represents the femur length in centimeters.

Analysis:

• In a linear equation $y = mx + b$, the coefficient $m$ (here, $2.36$) represents the rate of change or the slope.
• This means that for each additional centimeter of femur length, the expected height $h$ increases by $2.36$ centimeters.

Correct Answer:

The change in expected height for every one additional centimeter of femur length.

Would you like a detailed breakdown of how this is calculated or any related insights? Here are some follow-up questions to explore:

1. How can we determine the expected height for a specific femur length using this formula?
2. What does the constant $55.4$ represent in this equation?
3. How would the interpretation change if the slope $2.36$ were negative?
4. How can this model be used to predict height for a population?
5. Are there any limits or assumptions in using this linear relationship?

Tip: To interpret linear equations, focus on the slope and intercept for clear physical or practical meanings.