To compare the growth rates of the bean plant and the strawberry plant, we need to calculate the growth rate of each:
1. **Bean Plant:**
- Grows 2 inches in 2 days.
- Growth rate: \( \frac{2 \text{ inches}}{2 \text{ days}} = 1 \text{ inch per day} \)
2. **Strawberry Plant:**
- Grows 4 inches in 5 days.
- Growth rate: \( \frac{4 \text{ inches}}{5 \text{ days}} = 0.8 \text{ inches per day} \)
Now we can compare their growth rates:
- The bean plant grows at a rate of 1 inch per day.
- The strawberry plant grows at a rate of 0.8 inches per day.
Based on this information, the correct response is:
**The strawberry plant grows at a slower rate because it grows 0.8 inches per day while the bean plant grows 1 inch per day.**