Multiple Choice Mathematics: Strategic Answer Selection Process

Question

Choose the correct answer

Video Solution

Step-by-Step Solution

Let's solve the problem by recognizing how the slope influences a linear function:

  • Recall the form of a linear function: y=mx+b y = mx + b .
  • The slope m m defines the inclination of the line:
    • Positive slope (m>0 m > 0 ): Function increases as x x increases.
    • Negative slope (m<0 m < 0 ): Function decreases as x x increases.
    • Zero slope (m=0 m = 0 ): Function is constant, forms a horizontal line.

Given the question is about a negative slope, we focus on the behavior when m<0 m < 0 . In such a case, as x x increases, the value of y y decreases. This is because the line slopes downward from left to right.

Therefore, with a negative slope, the graph of the linear function is decreasing.

Hence, the correct answer is Choice 3: If the slope is negative then the function is decreasing.

Answer

If the slope is negative then the is decreasing