Linear extrapolation of declining death rate

Steps:

• Note initial rate: 200 deaths per 100,000 in 1990.
• From graph, identify constant annual decrease (linear trend post-1990).
• Calculate years to zero: divide 200 by annual decrease rate.
• Add years to 1990 for target year.

Why C is correct:

• Linear trend projects zero deaths exactly 40 years after 1990 (200 / 5 per year = 40), reaching 2030.

Why the others are wrong:

• A: 2020 is only 30 years, leaving 50 deaths (too soon).
• B: 2025 is 35 years, leaving 25 deaths (too soon).
• D: 2035 is 45 years, implying negative deaths (impossible).

Final answer: C