The correct answer is option C)70%.
Based on the line of best fit, the predicted percent of leaf litter mass remaining in the particular forest after decomposing for 3 years is closest to 70%.
- Identify the relevant data: The graph shows the relationship between mean annual temperature (°C) on the x-axis and the percent of leaf litter mass remaining (%) on the y-axis. The line of best fit represents the general trend of the data points.
- Locate the point of interest: We are interested in the predicted percent of leaf litter mass remaining for a forest with a mean annual temperature of -2°C. This point is not shown on the graph, but we can estimate its location based on the line of best fit.
- Extend the line of best fit: Imagine extending the line of best fit to the left until it intersects the vertical line at -2°C. This intersection point will indicate the predicted percent of leaf litter mass remaining for the forest in question.
- Estimate the y-value: Looking at the graph, we can see that the line of best fit intersects the vertical line at -2°C somewhere around the 70% mark on the y-axis. Therefore, the predicted percent of leaf litter mass remaining is closest to 70%.