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Problem-Solving and Data AnalysisMediumInterpreting both parameters of a model

Problem-Solving and Data Analysis practice question

The number of members of a book club t months after it was founded is modelled by n(t) = 20 + 6t. Which statement correctly interprets the model?

  1. A. The club began with 20 members and gains 6 members per month.Correct
  2. B. The club began with 6 members and gains 20 members per month.
  3. C. The club has 26 members after one year.
  4. D. The club loses 6 members per month.

Answer: A. The club began with 20 members and gains 6 members per month.

The intercept 20 is the starting membership; the slope 6 is the monthly gain.

Why the other answers are wrong

B. The club began with 6 members and gains 20 members per month.
Swaps the roles of the two numbers.
C. The club has 26 members after one year.
After 12 months there are 20 + 72 = 92 members; 26 is after one MONTH.
D. The club loses 6 members per month.
The slope is +6, a gain.

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