Math Problem Statement

Find the rate of change and initial value for the linear function as represented by the graph.

Solution

From the graph in the image, we are tasked with finding the rate of change and the initial value of the linear function.


Step 1: Identify two points on the line

From the graph, the line passes through the points:

  • (0,6)(0, 6) (the y-intercept)
  • (4,0)(4, 0)

Step 2: Calculate the rate of change (slope)

The slope mm is calculated as: m=y2y1x2x1m = \frac{y_2 - y_1}{x_2 - x_1}

Substitute (x1,y1)=(0,6)(x_1, y_1) = (0, 6) and (x2,y2)=(4,0)(x_2, y_2) = (4, 0): m=0640=64=32m = \frac{0 - 6}{4 - 0} = \frac{-6}{4} = -\frac{3}{2}

Thus, the rate of change (slope) is: m=32m = -\frac{3}{2}


Step 3: Identify the initial value

The initial value is the yy-intercept, which occurs when x=0x = 0. From the graph, the yy-intercept is 66.


Final Answer:

  • Rate of change: 32-\frac{3}{2}
  • Initial value: 66

Would you like more details on how this was calculated, or any further explanations?


Here are 5 related questions to expand your learning:

  1. How do you find the slope of a line given any two points?
  2. What is the equation of this line in slope-intercept form (y=mx+by = mx + b)?
  3. How can you determine the rate of change from a table of values instead of a graph?
  4. What does a negative slope represent in a real-world context?
  5. How do you find the initial value if the graph does not include the yy-intercept?

Tip: Always double-check your points before calculating the slope to avoid sign errors!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Algebra
Linear Functions
Slope and Y-Intercept

Formulas

Slope formula: m = (y2 - y1) / (x2 - x1)

Theorems

Slope-Intercept Form

Suitable Grade Level

Grade 8