Math Problem Statement

Which line represents a graph of f(x) = -0.25x + 3?

Solution

To solve this problem, we need to determine which of the lines (m, n, p, or q) matches the function f(x)=0.25x+3f(x) = -0.25x + 3.

Step 1: Analyze the function f(x)=0.25x+3f(x) = -0.25x + 3

  • Slope: The slope is 0.25-0.25, meaning the line slopes downward and for every 1 unit increase in xx, yy decreases by 0.25.
  • Y-intercept: The y-intercept is 3, which means the line crosses the y-axis at (0,3)(0, 3).

Step 2: Compare with the graph

  • We look for a line that:
    1. Crosses the y-axis at y=3y = 3.
    2. Has a negative slope, indicating it is slanting downwards as xx increases.

Observations:

  • Line n: Crosses the y-axis at y=3y = 3 and has a negative slope. This matches the characteristics of the function f(x)=0.25x+3f(x) = -0.25x + 3.
  • Other lines (m, p, q) either have different y-intercepts or slopes that do not match.

Thus, line n represents the graph of the function f(x)=0.25x+3f(x) = -0.25x + 3.

Would you like further details or clarifications? Here are some related questions:

  1. What is the importance of the slope in identifying the correct graph?
  2. How can you quickly identify the y-intercept on a graph?
  3. How do changes in the slope affect the appearance of the graph?
  4. How would the graph look if the slope were positive instead of negative?
  5. Can a different function be represented by one of the other lines?

Tip: Always start by identifying the y-intercept and slope when analyzing a linear function graph!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Linear Equations
Graphing Functions
Slopes
Y-Intercepts

Formulas

Slope-intercept form: y = mx + b

Theorems

Properties of linear functions: slope and intercept determine the line's position and orientation on a graph

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 8-10