Question

What number is easiest to substitute in for the variable to indicate how to shade on the number line?

A. 0
B. 1
C. -1
D. 2

Answer 1

The easiest number to substitute in for a variable is typically 0 because it simplifies the equation, making it easier to evaluate and determine how to shade on a number line.

Step-by-step explanation:

The easiest number to substitute for a variable when trying to determine how to shade on a number line is typically 0. The reason for this is that 0 is the central point of the number line and it often simplifies the equation, making it easier to evaluate without dealing with positive or negative parts that could complicate the calculation. For example, if we have an inequality such as x > -2, substituting 0 for x gives us 0 > -2, which is a true statement and indicates that the shading would be on the side of the number line where x is greater than -2.