The table above shows the population of Greenleaf, Idaho, for the years 2000 and 2010 . If the relationship between population and year is linear, which of the following functions p models the population of Greenleaf t  years after 2000 ?

The correct answer is:

Step 1 of 3:
In the year 2000, the population is given by 862 and in 2010, it is given by 846.
So, within 10 years of span, the population decreased by (862-846) = 16.
Step 2 of 3:
Since the relationship between population and year is linear, then



Step 3 of 3:
Similarly, the equation can be written for t years after 2000, as 862 – 1.6 (t – 2000).
We denote this by P(t).
Final Answer:
The right choice is— D) P(t) = 862 – 1.6 (t – 2000)