Determining the Linear Equation

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 9 views

Introduction

In mathematics, a linear equation is a type of equation in which the highest power of the variable(s) is 1. It is a fundamental concept in algebra and is used to model various real-world situations. When given a table of values, we can determine the corresponding linear equation by analyzing the pattern of the data. In this article, we will explore how to select the correct linear equation from a given table.

Understanding the Table

The table provided shows a set of values for the variables x and y.

x	y
0	3
3	15
7	31
10	43

Analyzing the Pattern

To determine the correct linear equation, we need to analyze the pattern of the data in the table. Let's examine the differences between consecutive values of y.

Between x = 0 and x = 3, the difference in y is 15 - 3 = 12.
Between x = 3 and x = 7, the difference in y is 31 - 15 = 16.
Between x = 7 and x = 10, the difference in y is 43 - 31 = 12.

We can see that the differences between consecutive values of y are increasing by 4 each time (12, 16, 20, ...). This suggests that the linear equation is quadratic in nature.

Determining the Linear Equation

Since the table represents a quadratic relationship, we can write the linear equation in the form y = ax^2 + bx + c, where a, b, and c are constants.

To determine the values of a, b, and c, we can use the given values in the table.

For x = 0, y = 3: 3 = a(0)^2 + b(0) + c => c = 3
For x = 3, y = 15: 15 = a(3)^2 + b(3) + 3 => 9a + 3b = 12
For x = 7, y = 31: 31 = a(7)^2 + b(7) + 3 => 49a + 7b = 28

Now we have a system of two linear equations with two variables:

9a + 3b = 12 49a + 7b = 28

We can solve this system using substitution or elimination. Let's use elimination.

Multiplying the first equation by 7 and the second equation by 3, we get:

63a + 21b = 84 147a + 21b = 84

Subtracting the first equation from the second, we get:

84a = 0 => a = 0

Now that we have the value of a, we can substitute it into one of the original equations to find the value of b.

9(0) + 3b = 12 => 3b = 12 => b = 4

Finally, we can substitute the values of a and b into one of the original equations to find the value of c.

9(0) + 3(4) + c = 12 => c = 3

Conclusion

The correct linear equation corresponding to the table above is y = 4x + 3.

Answer

The correct answer is:

A. y = 4x + 3

Discussion

This problem requires the application of algebraic techniques to determine the correct linear equation from a given table. The key concept is to analyze the pattern of the data and use it to determine the values of the constants in the linear equation. This type of problem is essential in mathematics and has numerous real-world applications.

Real-World Applications

The concept of linear equations is used in various fields, including:

Physics: to model the motion of objects
Engineering: to design and optimize systems
Economics: to model economic systems and make predictions
Computer Science: to develop algorithms and models

Q: What is a linear equation?

A: A linear equation is a type of equation in which the highest power of the variable(s) is 1. It is a fundamental concept in algebra and is used to model various real-world situations.

Q: How do I determine the correct linear equation from a given table?

A: To determine the correct linear equation from a given table, you need to analyze the pattern of the data and use it to determine the values of the constants in the linear equation.

Q: What are the key concepts involved in determining the correct linear equation from a given table?

A: The key concepts involved in determining the correct linear equation from a given table are:

Analyzing the pattern of the data
Using the pattern to determine the values of the constants in the linear equation
Applying algebraic techniques to solve the resulting system of equations

Q: What are some common mistakes to avoid when determining the correct linear equation from a given table?

A: Some common mistakes to avoid when determining the correct linear equation from a given table are:

Failing to analyze the pattern of the data
Making incorrect assumptions about the values of the constants
Failing to apply algebraic techniques to solve the resulting system of equations

Q: How do I know if the linear equation I have determined is correct?

A: To determine if the linear equation you have determined is correct, you need to check if it satisfies the given values in the table. If the equation satisfies all the given values, then it is likely to be the correct linear equation.

Q: What are some real-world applications of linear equations?

A: Linear equations have numerous real-world applications, including:

Physics: to model the motion of objects
Engineering: to design and optimize systems
Economics: to model economic systems and make predictions
Computer Science: to develop algorithms and models

Q: Can I use linear equations to model non-linear relationships?

A: While linear equations can be used to model non-linear relationships, they are not always the best choice. In some cases, a non-linear equation may be more suitable to model the relationship.

Q: How do I determine if a linear equation is the best choice to model a relationship?

A: To determine if a linear equation is the best choice to model a relationship, you need to analyze the data and determine if it is linear or non-linear. If the data is linear, then a linear equation may be the best choice. If the data is non-linear, then a non-linear equation may be more suitable.

Conclusion

Determining the correct linear equation from a given table requires a combination of analytical and algebraic skills. By understanding the key concepts involved and avoiding common mistakes, you can determine the correct linear equation and apply it to real-world problems.