In 1980, the median age of the U.S. population was 30.0; in 2000, the median age was 35.3.
Create an explicit linear equation to model the change in median age over time. Use t for time (measured in decades since 1980) and a for median age (measured in years).

Respuesta :

Answer:

y = 0.265x - 494.7

Step-by-step explanation:

Let median age be represent by 'a' and time be represent by 't'

In 1980, median age is given 30

which means that

a₁ = 30

t₁ = 1980

In 2000, the median age is given 35.3

which means that.

a₂ = 35.3

t₂ = 2000

The slope 'm' of the linear equation can be found by:

m = (a₂ - a₁) /(t₂ - t₁)

m = (35.3 - 30)/(2000-1980)

m = 0.265

General form of linear equation is given by:

y = mx + c

y = 0.265x +c

Substitute point (1980,30) in the equation.

30 = 0.265(1980) + c

c = -494.7

Hence the the linear equation can be written as:

y = mx + c

y = 0.265x - 494.7