Math Problem Statement

Describe and correct the error a student made in determining the equation for the line of best fit for the data in the table.

Solution

The image presents a table with two variables xx and yy, and a multiple-choice question asking for the identification and correction of an error in determining the line of best fit.

Here is the data from the table:

xx36912151821
yy4172840556772

The question asks to identify the mistake the student made in finding the equation of the line of best fit for this data. The options are:

A: The student switched the numbers in the equation. The line of best fit is y=1.83+0.25xy = 1.83 + 0.25x.
B: The student did not notice that the data set is too small for a linear regression to be useful.
C: The student did not make it clear that the line of best fit is only an approximation of the data.
D: The student switched the order of the data. The data for xx should be entered in L1L_1, and the data for yy should be entered in L2L_2.

Analysis:

  • The data points clearly show a pattern that could be modeled with linear regression, so option B is incorrect.
  • The problem likely revolves around the proper handling or interpretation of the data in the linear regression process, possibly switching xx and yy.
  • The best-fit equation y=1.83+0.25xy = 1.83 + 0.25x provided in option A seems plausible for these data points when using the correct methodology.

Based on this, the correct answer is likely D, as switching the data entry order in lists L1L_1 and L2L_2 (commonly used in calculators) could lead to a mistake in calculating the regression.

Let me know if you would like to explore this further or get any details!

Related Questions:

  1. What is the method to calculate the slope in linear regression?
  2. How do you determine the residuals when fitting a line of best fit?
  3. Why is it important to input data correctly into a graphing calculator for linear regression?
  4. What is the interpretation of the slope and intercept in the context of real data?
  5. How can you check if a line of best fit is appropriate for a data set?

Tip: Always double-check how data is entered into statistical tools to avoid confusion with the variables!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Statistics
Linear Regression
Line of Best Fit

Formulas

Line of best fit formula: y = mx + b

Theorems

Linear Regression
Slope-Intercept Form

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-12