Here are the truths regarding the line of best fit for any scatter plot:
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The line of best fit can, some times, be used as a prediction tool; showing a trend in the data. - True. The line of best fit summarizes the trends in the data and can be used for predictions.
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The line of best fit MUST cross through at least 2 points in the scatter plot. - False. While the line may intersect at two points, it is not a requirement. The line is generally an average of the trends and may not necessarily pass through any points.
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The line must represent the general relationship between the two variables. - True. The purpose of the line of best fit is to reflect the overall trend between the variables.
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The line of best fit must have an equal number of points above and below the line. - False. This is not a requirement. The line of best fit attempts to minimize the distance between itself and all points, but it does not need to have equal numbers above and below.
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The line of best fit should be an exact representation of the data points. - False. The line of best fit is a summary of the trend in the data and does not need to align with each individual data point.
Summary of True Statements:
- The line of best fit can sometimes be used as a prediction tool; showing a trend in the data.
- The line must represent the general relationship between the two variables.