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Which Model Models Best?

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Why might a trigonometric function be the best fit for the data?

The tide data represents a data set that will repeat values over a period of 12 hours.  Since this scenario contains periodic data, a trigonometric (sinusoidal) function should be the best choice for a function to model the data.

Check Your Understanding

Test and Confirm

  • Graph the sinusoidal curve of best fit on the scatter plot.
  • Calculate and review the residual plot to determine if the sinusoidal model is the best fit.  

When ready, move to the next page.

 

 

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