Question

Select the correct answer.

Consider the following graph.

Which statement best describes Cheryl's commute?

A.
Cheryl drove at a speed of 65 mph for 1 minute, made a stop for 5.5 minutes, and then drove at a speed of 45 mph for 2.5 minutes.
B.
Cheryl accelerated to 65 mph, made a stop for 5.5 minutes, and then decelerated to 45 mph.
C.
Cheryl accelerated to 65 mph, drove at a constant speed for 5.5 minutes, and then decelerated to 45 mph.
D.
Cheryl drove at a speed of 65 mph for 1 minute, drove at a constant speed for 5.5 minutes, and then drove at a speed of 45 mph for 2.5 minutes.

Answer 1

C. Cheryl accelerated to 65 mph, drove at a constant speed for 5.5 minutes, and then decelerated to 45 mph.

Explanation:

For options A and B, the blue line would go down to speed = 0 for the stopped period. We see from the graph that the blue line remains at 65MPH and does not indicate a stopped vehicle.

For option D, it is correct until minute 6.5. After this point the blue line indicates a deceleration to 45MPH (Option C) by the downward slope, not an immediate change to a constant speed of 45 MPH.