What is the most appropriate way to present the data below?

\begin{tabular}{|c|c|}
\hline Week & Plant Mass (g) \\
\hline 1 & 22 \\
\hline 2 & 61 \\
\hline 3 & 87 \\
\hline 4 & 123 \\
\hline
\end{tabular}

A. bar graph
B. chart
C. line graph
D. pie graph



Answer :

To determine the most appropriate way to present the given data, it's important to consider the nature of the data and what we aim to convey.

The data provided shows the plant mass measured (in grams) over a period of four weeks:

\begin{tabular}{|c|c|}
\hline Week & Plant Mass (g) \\
\hline 1 & 22 \\
\hline 2 & 61 \\
\hline 3 & 87 \\
\hline 4 & 123 \\
\hline
\end{tabular}

1. Bar graph: This type of graph is useful for comparing the quantities of different categories. Here, each week could be considered a different category. However, bar graphs are generally better suited for categorical data rather than showing trends over time.

2. Chart: This is a broad term that includes various types of graphs and plots. Without specifying the type, simply referring to a "chart" is too vague and does not provide a clear presentation method.

3. Line graph: This type of graph is excellent for displaying data points over a continuous period. It effectively shows trends and changes over time, making it clear how a variable changes at regular intervals. Here, a line graph would effectively show the growth of the plant mass over the four weeks.

4. Pie graph: Also known as a pie chart, this graph is used to show relative proportions or percentages of a whole. Since the data here represents a time series rather than parts of a whole, a pie graph would not be appropriate.

Given the goal is to show the trend of plant mass growth over a series of consecutive weeks, the line graph is the most appropriate choice because it clearly illustrates changes and trends over time. Thus, the correct answer is:

Line graph.