Final answer:
The correct equation for the inchworm's descent, considering it must have a negative slope, is c) y = -2.5x + 40, which matches the standard format of a linear equation with a y-intercept of 40 and a descent shown by the negative slope.
Step-by-step explanation:
To determine which equation represents the inchworm's descent, let's recall the standard form of a linear equation, y = mx + b, where m is the slope (rise over run) and b is the y-intercept, the point where the line crosses the y-axis. The problem implies that the inchworm is descending, so we look for a negative slope. Of the given options, only c) y = -2.5x + 40 has a negative slope, indicating a downward movement over time, with 40 being the starting point (y-intercept) at x=0.
Looking at examples referenced in our materials, we see that equations such as y = -3204 + 1.662x and y = -173.51 + 4.83x also represent lines of best fit with their respective y-intercepts and slopes. It seems that the equation c) y = -2.5x + 40 best fits the scenario as it shows a descent similar to these examples but with a smaller slope and y-intercept suitable for an inchworm's scale of movement.