Question

the graph depicts the growth in costs using a line segment. use the midpoint formula to approximate the cost during the year 1987.
the approximate cost during the year 1987 was $\square.
average annual cost of tuition and fees at 4-year private colleges during 1983 – 1991
cost
$10000
$8000
$6000
$5035
$4000
$2000
1983
year
1991
$9981

Explanation:

Step1: Identify the two points

The two points are (1983, 5035) and (1991, 9981). We need to find the midpoint of the cost (since 1987 is the midpoint of 1983 and 1991 in terms of years). The midpoint formula for two values \( y_1 \) and \( y_2 \) is \( \frac{y_1 + y_2}{2} \).

Step2: Apply the midpoint formula

Substitute \( y_1 = 5035 \) and \( y_2 = 9981 \) into the formula:
\( \frac{5035 + 9981}{2} = \frac{15016}{2} = 7508 \)

Answer:

7508