Math Problem Statement

Which scenario best matches the proportional relationship shown on the graph?

Solution

The graph in the image shows a line that represents a proportional relationship. To match the proportional relationship to a scenario, let's first determine the slope of the line.

Step 1: Analyzing the Graph

  • The graph has the line passing through the origin (0,0)(0, 0), which is characteristic of proportional relationships.
  • From visual inspection, the line appears to pass through points like (5,3)(5, 3), meaning for every 5 units increase on the x-axis, there is a 3-unit increase on the y-axis. This gives a slope (rate of change) of 35\frac{3}{5}, or 3 cakes per 5 days.

Step 2: Comparing to the Given Scenarios

Now, let's compare this rate to the options provided:

  • A: "A chef bakes 3 cakes every 5 days."
    This matches the slope we calculated from the graph: 35\frac{3}{5}.

  • B: "Michael paid $25 for 4 hamburgers."
    The rate here would be 254\frac{25}{4}, which does not match the graph's slope.

  • C: "Gail can buy 5 pencils for $10 at the school store."
    This gives a rate of 510=12\frac{5}{10} = \frac{1}{2}, which is also different from the graph.

  • D: "Every 14 days, a worker deposits $25 into a savings account."
    This gives a rate of 2514\frac{25}{14}, which is not the same as the graph's slope.

Conclusion:

The correct answer is A: A chef bakes 3 cakes every 5 days because it directly matches the slope of the line on the graph, which is 35\frac{3}{5}.

Would you like more details on any step? Here are some additional questions to consider:

  1. What are proportional relationships and how are they represented graphically?
  2. How do you calculate the slope of a line on a graph?
  3. Why do proportional relationships always pass through the origin?
  4. How do you compare different rates of change in word problems?
  5. Can a graph of a proportional relationship ever have a curve?

Tip: When analyzing proportional relationships, always look for the constant rate of change, or slope, which is the same between any two points on the line.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Proportional Relationships
Slope
Rate of Change

Formulas

Slope formula: m = (change in y) / (change in x)

Theorems

Proportionality Theorem
Linearity Theorem

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 6-8