To determine the reliability of the linear model based on the residual plot, we need to assess the characteristics of the residuals.
If the residuals are equally and randomly distributed around the line where residual = 0, it indicates that the linear model is a good fit for the data, and we can trust its predictions. Conversely, if there is a clear pattern in the residuals, it suggests that a linear model may not be appropriate, and the predictions could be unreliable.
Given these criteria, the correct response is:
The given residual plot clearly has a pattern. Therefore, a linear model is not reliable and will not provide accurate predictions for the original data.