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Linear Graph

Definition

A linear graph is a graphical representation of data that shows a straight-line relationship between two variables. It indicates that as one variable increases, the other variable changes at a constant rate.

Analogy

Imagine you are driving on a straight road with your car's speedometer showing how fast you're going. If your speedometer needle moves in a straight line as you accelerate or decelerate, it represents a linear relationship between time and speed.

Related terms

Slope: The slope of a linear graph represents the rate of change between the two variables. It indicates how much one variable changes for each unit change in the other variable.

Y-Intercept: The y-intercept is the point where the line intersects with the y-axis on a linear graph. It represents the value of the dependent variable when the independent variable is zero.

Line of Best Fit: The line of best fit is drawn through data points on a scatter plot to represent an approximate trend or relationship. In a linear graph, this line would be perfectly straight, fitting all data points as closely as possible.

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AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.