Charlie used a regression calculator to generate the equation f(x) = –0.15x + 20.1 for the ordered pairs (2, 15), (4, 21), (6, 26), (8, 20), and (10, 14).Is a linear representation the best way to represent the data? If it is, explain why. If not, explain why and suggest a better alternative.

Answer:

The rvalue for the linear function related to the ordered pairs is very close to zero, so it is not a good representation of the data. A quadratic model would better represent the data because there is a turning point within the data set. The data increases then decreases, which is what the graph of a quadratic does.