Problema Solution

The average hourly earnings of a U.S. production worker in 1997 were $12.92. In 2005, the average hourly earnings had increased to $16.84. Let y be the average hourly earnings in the year x, where x = 0 represents the year 1997.Find a linear equation which could be used to predict the average hourly earnings y in a given year x, where x = 0 represents the year 1997

Answer provided by our tutors

Let the equation be y = mx + c

where x = 0 represents the year 1997

and y is the average hourly earnings

 

When x =0, given y = 12.92 Putting this in the above equation

12.92 = m(0) + c

c = 12.92

Our equation becomes y = mx + 12.92

Also given in 2005, y = 16.84 and x = 2005- 1997 = 8 Putting this again in the equatin

16.84= m(8) + 12.92

8m = 16.84 - 12.92 = 3.92

m = 3.92/8 = 0.49

Thus, the required equation is y = 0.49x + 12.92

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