Question

the graph of a linear function is shown. which word describes the slope of the line? positive negative zero undefined

Explanation:

Step1: Recall slope definition

The slope of a line is calculated as \( \frac{\text{change in } y}{\text{change in } x} \) (rise over run). For a linear function, we can also determine the slope's sign by observing the direction of the line.

Step2: Analyze the line's direction

The given line is decreasing from left to right. When a line decreases from left to right, as \( x \) increases, \( y \) decreases. This means the change in \( y \) (rise) is negative when the change in \( x \) (run) is positive. So, \( \frac{\text{change in } y}{\text{change in } x} \) will be negative.

Answer:

negative (the option: negative)