Question

which graph shows the line of best fit for the data?

Explanation:

Step1: Recall line - of - best - fit concept

The line of best fit is a straight line that best represents the data on a scatter - plot. It should pass through the center of the data points, minimizing the overall distance between the points and the line.

Step2: Analyze first graph

The horizontal line in the first graph does not capture the overall trend of the data points which seem to have a general downward or upward (not clearly horizontal) trend. So, it is not the line of best fit.

Step3: Analyze second graph

The very steep line in the second graph does not seem to be centered among the data points. Many points are far from this line, so it is not the line of best fit.

Step4: Analyze third and fourth graphs

The third and fourth graphs both have lines with a negative slope. The fourth graph's line seems to pass more closely through the "center" of the data points, minimizing the sum of the vertical distances from the points to the line compared to the third graph.

Answer:

The fourth graph shows the line of best fit for the data.