To determine the predicted value of [tex]\( y \)[/tex] using the line of best fit equation [tex]\( y = 2.5 x - 1.5 \)[/tex] when [tex]\( x = 7 \)[/tex], we will follow these steps:
1. Start with the given equation of the line of best fit:
[tex]\[
y = 2.5 x - 1.5
\][/tex]
2. Substitute the value [tex]\( x = 7 \)[/tex] into the equation.
3. Perform the multiplication:
[tex]\[
y = 2.5 \times 7 - 1.5
\][/tex]
4. Calculate [tex]\( 2.5 \times 7 \)[/tex]:
[tex]\[
2.5 \times 7 = 17.5
\][/tex]
5. Subtract 1.5 from 17.5:
[tex]\[
17.5 - 1.5 = 16
\][/tex]
Therefore, the equation predicts that when [tex]\( x = 7 \)[/tex], the value of [tex]\( y \)[/tex] is 16.
The correct answer is:
D. 16
