Question

If a linear function has positive rate of change, does its graph slope upward or downward?

Short answer

The graph of a linear function slopes upward if it has a positive rate of change.

Step-by-step solution

Step 1. Relation between rate of change and graph of a linear function.

If the rate of change of a linear function is negative, then the graph slants downward.

If the rate of change of a linear function is $0$, then the graph is a horizontal line.

If the rate of change of a linear function is positive, then the graph slants upward.

Step 2. Given information.

A linear function has a positive rate of change.

Step 3. Slope of linear function.

It is given that the linear function has a positive rate of change, therefore the graph slants upward.

Thus, the graph of a linear function slopes upward if it has a positive rate of change.