A Forester Would Like to Estimate the Diameter of Maple

question 22

Multiple Choice

A forester would like to estimate the diameter of maple trees based on age. She gathers data from trees that have been cut and plots their diameters (in inches) against their ages (in years) . She fits a linear model and both the scatterplot and residual plots are shown below. Which of the following is true?

• A) If we used this model to predict the diameter of a maple tree that is 50 years old, the predicted value would be too low.
• B) If we used this model to predict the diameter of a maple tree that is 50 years old, the predicted value would be quite reliable.
• C) Re-expressing these data by taking the logarithm of age would not improve this model.
• D) If we used this model to predict the diameter of a maple tree that is 50 years old, the predicted value would be too low or it would be too high.
• E) If we used this model to predict the diameter of a maple tree that is 50 years old, the predicted value would be too high, furthermore, re-expressing these data by taking the logarithm of age would improve this model.

---

Definitions:

Epiphyseal Plate

A hyaline cartilage plate in the long bones, where lengthwise growth of the bone occurs.

Ossified

The process by which tissue turns into bone or a bony substance, often part of normal bone growth and development or healing of fractures.

Hypersecretion

The excessive production and release of substances, such as hormones or enzymes, by a gland or organ.

Adrenal Tumor

A growth, either benign or malignant, that forms in the adrenal glands, which are located above the kidneys and are responsible for hormone production, including stress hormones and sex hormones.