To determine the accurate interpretation of the slope based on the information provided, we need to consider the weight gain of the elephant calf.
The calf starts at 282 pounds and gains approximately 2.5 pounds each day for its first year (365 days). Therefore, the total weight gain over this period can be calculated:
Weight gain per day = 2.5 pounds Total weight gain in one year = 2.5 pounds/day * 365 days = 912.5 pounds
The calf's weight after one year (approximately 1,195 pounds) aligns with this data, as:
Initial weight = 282 pounds Weight after one year = 282 pounds + 912.5 pounds ≈ 1,195 pounds
Now, let's analyze the interpretations given:
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The calf gains 5 pounds every 2 days.
- This translates to a rate of 2.5 pounds per day, which is correct in terms of the weight gain. However, the description "5 pounds every 2 days" does not encapsulate the concept of slope directly, though it is indirectly related to the rate of gain.
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The calf gains 737 pounds over 182 days.
- This is not accurate based on our calculated weight gain; the calf gains significantly more over a year and the provided figure doesn't hold.
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The calf gains 365 pounds in 913 days.
- This is also incorrect; the rate does not match with the calculated average gain.
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The calf gains an average of 1,195 pounds over one year of life.
- This is misleading. The calf gains weight throughout the year, but its average weight at the end of the year is not a direct interpretation of the slope.
Given the options, the most cohesive interpretation seems to be:
The calf gains 5 pounds every 2 days.
This matches the daily gain of 2.5 pounds neatly and aligns with the concept of a linear slope representing weight gain over time. Thus, it is the best choice if we need to select one.