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Question 673344: When I am given a table that clearly as a linear pattern, how would I set up the equation? I know it's y=mx+b, but I am un sure of the "format" of how you set the equation up, and how you figure it out.
Thanks.
Answer by solver91311(24713)   (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
If you are absolutely certain that your data is linearly related, then just choose any two points and use the two-point form of an equation of a line.
(x\ -\ x_1) )
where ) and ) are the coordinates of the given points.
And from there, you can put your equation into any form you like (or your teacher demands).
If you aren't sure, pick the two points that are farthest apart and calculate the slope with the slope formula:
Then, retaining one of the points you just used and choosing a different point for the second point, calculate the slope again. If the slopes are different, then the data is non-linear, although it may be close enough that a linear model is close enough for your purposes -- judgment call on you. If they are the same slope, chances are good that the data is, in fact, linear. You would have to use all of the points to be certain, though.
If the points are linear, then just pick two of them and use the two-point form above. If the points are non-linear, then you can choose one of several non-linear models, but that discussion is way beyond the scope of this response.
John
My calculator said it, I believe it, that settles it
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