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AlgebraMediumReading a linear function's rate from two outputs

Algebra practice question

For a linear function f, f(2) = 11 and f(6) = 3. Which statement is true?

  1. A. f decreases by 2 for each increase of 1 in x.Correct
  2. B. f increases by 2 for each increase of 1 in x.
  3. C. f decreases by 8 for each increase of 1 in x.
  4. D. f decreases by 4 for each increase of 1 in x.

Answer: A. f decreases by 2 for each increase of 1 in x.

Slope: (3 − 11)/(6 − 2) = −8/4 = −2.

Why the other answers are wrong

B. f increases by 2 for each increase of 1 in x.
f falls from 11 to 3, so the slope is negative.
C. f decreases by 8 for each increase of 1 in x.
−8 is the total change over 4 units, not per unit.
D. f decreases by 4 for each increase of 1 in x.
−4 divides by 2 instead of 4.

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