The following table shows the percentage of the U.S. Discretionary Budget allocated to education in 2003, 2005, and 2009 (t=0 represents 2000)

Year t 3 5 9
Percentage p(t) 6.8 7 6.2

(a) Compute and interpret the average rate of change of P(t)
(b) Over the period 2003-2009 (that is [3,9]) and
(c) Over the period [5,9] be sure to state the units of measurement.
I have no idea how to start this could you please walk me though how to work this problem? I am so lost. Thank you.

1 answer

a has to be instructions for b, and c.

b. rate change=change/time=(6.2-6.8)/(9-3)

c. rate change=change/time=(7-6.8)/(9-5)