Question

a data set contains an independent and a dependent variable. which must be true of the data set if a linear function can be used to represent the data?
the set must have a constant multiplicative rate of change.
the values in the set must be increasing
the values in the set must be positive.
the set must have a constant additive rate of change.

Explanation:

A linear function has the form $y = mx + b$, where $m$ (the slope) represents a constant additive rate of change between the independent and dependent variables. A constant multiplicative rate of change applies to exponential functions, while linear functions can be decreasing (negative slope) and include negative values, so the other options are incorrect.

Answer:

D. The set must have a constant additive rate of change.