Question

linear equations
a block of dry ice is taken out of the freezer and is evaporating. from a starting weight, the block lost weight at a constant number of grams per minute. the following graph shows the weight of the block after taking it out of the freezer.
question 1: what was the initial weight (to the nearest ten grams)?
enter the number without units:
question 2: how fast is the weight dropping (to the nearest ten grams per minute)?
enter the number without units
question 3: if the weight were dropping faster (choose as many as fit):
□ the line would be flatter
□ the line would be steeper
□ the intercept on the vertical axis would be lower
□ the intercept on the vertical axis would be higher
question 4: if the initial weight were lower (choose as many as fit)
□ the line would be flatter
□ the line would be steeper
□ the intercept on the vertical axis would be lower
□ the intercept on the vertical axis would be higher

Explanation:

Step1: Identify initial weight (t=0)

The initial weight is the y-value at $x=0$ minutes, which is 900.

Step2: Calculate weight loss rate

Use slope formula: $\text{Rate} = \frac{\text{Weight change}}{\text{Time change}} = \frac{900 - 650}{3-0} \approx 83$, rounded to nearest ten is 80.

Step3: Analyze faster weight drop

Faster drop means steeper negative slope; initial weight (y-intercept) stays same.

Step4: Analyze lower initial weight

Lower initial weight means lower y-intercept; slope (weight loss rate) stays same.

Answer:

Question 1: 900
Question 2: 80
Question 3: The line would be steeper
Question 4: The intercept on the vertical axis would be lower