To find the slope of the population growth (or decline) between the years 1962 and 1980, we first need to determine the change in population and the change in time.
- Population in 1962 (x = 1962): \(y_1 = 1,632,500\)
- Population in 1980 (x = 1980): \(y_2 = 1,629,800\)
Now, calculate the change in population (\(\Delta y\)) and the change in time (\(\Delta x\)):
\[ \Delta y = y_2 - y_1 = 1,629,800 - 1,632,500 = -2,700 \]
\[ \Delta x = 1980 - 1962 = 18 \]
Now, we can find the slope (rate of change):
\[ \text{slope} = \frac{\Delta y}{\Delta x} = \frac{-2,700}{18} = -150 \]
This means the population is decreasing by 150 people per year.
From the choices given, the most accurate statement is:
The population is decreasing at a rate of 150 people per year.