A study was done to investigate the relationship between outdoor temperature and the amount of fluids an outdoor athlete drinks per day. The correlating linear model is shown below, where x represents the number of degrees over 80°F, and y represents the amount of fluids drunk (in liters). Interpret the y-intercept.

Question

A.
An athlete drinks 0.55 L per day when the temperature is 80°F.
B.
An athlete drinks 3.85 L per day when the temperature is 80°F.
C.
An athlete drinks 4.4 L per day when the temperature is 80°F.
D.
An athlete drinks 7 L per day when the temperature is 80°F.

Answer 1

In the given scenario, the variable \( x \) represents the number of degrees over 80°F. Therefore, when the temperature is exactly 80°F, \( x \) is equal to 0. The y-intercept of the linear model corresponds to the value of \( y \) when \( x = 0 \).

To find the correct interpretation of the y-intercept, we need to understand that it represents the amount of fluids an athlete drinks per day when the outdoor temperature is 80°F (since \( x = 0 \) corresponds to exactly 80°F).

From the options provided, if the y-intercept is given as 3.85 (for example), the interpretation would be that an athlete drinks 3.85 L per day when the temperature is 80°F.

Thus, you'll need to identify the specific y-intercept value given in the context of the linear model to choose the correct interpretation.

Assuming 3.85 L is the y-intercept, the correct answer would then be:

B. An athlete drinks 3.85 L per day when the temperature is 80°F.

If the actual y-intercept value from the model was different, you would choose the option corresponding to that specific value. Please confirm the y-intercept from the model to ensure accuracy!