Questions on Algebra: Linear Equations, Graphs, Slope answered by real tutors!

Algebra ->  Algebra -> Questions on Algebra: Linear Equations, Graphs, Slope answered by real tutors!     (Log On)
Ad: Algebra Solved!™: algebra software that solves YOUR algebra homework problems with step-by-step help!


Question 169994: Determine wheather this statemant makes sense or does not make sense and explain your reasoning.
Because the percentage of the us population that was foreign born decreased from 1910 through 1970 and then increased after than, an equation of the form y=ax^2+bx+c, rather than a linear equation of the form y=mx+b, should model the data.: Determine wheather this statemant makes sense or does not make sense and explain your reasoning.
Because the percentage of the us population that was foreign born decreased from 1910 through 1970 and then increased after than, an equation of the form y=ax^2+bx+c, rather than a linear equation of the form y=mx+b, should model the data.
Answer by jim_thompson5910(9911) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
Well equations of the form of y=ax^2+bx+c where "a" is positive model parabolas that open upward.


For instance, a parabola opening upward would look like this:


drawing(500, 500, -10, 10, -10, 10,<BR> graph( 500, 500, -10, 10, -10, 10,(x-2)^2) <BR> )


Since the left side of the graph starts high, decreases, and then eventually increases, this means that a parabola would fit the data. So an equation of the form y=ax^2+bx+c should model the data.