Question

n order for the data in the table to represent a linear function with a rate of change of –8, what must be the value of a?

a = 2
a = 3
a = 19
a = 35

Answer 1

I don't see the table — I need the x and y values to compute the slope. Please paste the table.

Meanwhile, here's how to find a once you give the table:

- If two entries are (x1, y1) and (x2, y2) and one of the y's is a, set
(y2 − y1) / (x2 − x1) = −8
and solve that equation for a.

- If the x-values are consecutive (difference 1), then each step in x should change y by −8. So if a is one y-value and you know a neighboring y, a must equal that neighbor minus 8 (or plus 8, depending on direction).

Paste the table and I’ll solve for a (or I can test the four choices if you prefer).