16Hit1600
AlgebraMediumMeaning of the slope in a savings model

Algebra practice question

The amount of money in a savings jar is modelled by S(w) = 15 + 8w, where w is the number of weeks since the jar was started. Which of the following is the best interpretation of the number 8?

  1. A. $8 is added to the jar each week.Correct
  2. B. The jar started with $8.
  3. C. The jar will be full after 8 weeks.
  4. D. The jar held $8 after one week.

Answer: A. $8 is added to the jar each week.

The coefficient of w is the weekly change: $8 per week.

Why the other answers are wrong

B. The jar started with $8.
The starting amount is 15.
C. The jar will be full after 8 weeks.
Nothing in the model says when the jar is full.
D. The jar held $8 after one week.
After one week the jar holds 15 + 8 = 23.

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