The population of a small town can be modeled by P $$P = - 33 t + 12,800$$ , where t is the number of years since 2010. Interpret the slope of the graph of this function as a rate of change.
A) The population of the town is decreasing by 33 people per year.
B) The population of the town is decreasing by 12,800 people per year.
C) The population of the town is increasing by 12,800 people per year.
D) The population of the town is increasing by 33 people per year.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The slope of the graph, which is -33, represents the rate of change of the population with respect to time. Since it is negative, it indicates the population is decreasing by 33 people per year.

The Population of a Small Town Can Be Modeled by P