Use the linear slope formula to solve for m:
m=(y2-y1)/(x2-x1)
using the points (-1,1) and (1,5) you can find the slope for the first interval:
m=(5-1)/(1-(-1))
m=4/2
m=2
you can double check by using the same formula on the second interval, which is (1,5) to (3,9).
m=(9-5)/(3-1)
m=4/2
m=2
therefore, the rate of change is 2.
<h2>Steps:</h2>
So for this, we will be completing the square to solve for m. Firstly, subtract 8 on both sides:

Next, divide both sides by 2:

Next, we want to make the left side of the equation a perfect square. To find the constant of this perfect square, divide the m coefficient by 2, then square the quotient. In this case:
-8 ÷ 2 = -4, (-4)² = 16
Add 16 to both sides of the equation:

Next, factor the left side:

Next, square root both sides of the equation:

Next, add 4 to both sides of the equation:

Now, while this is your answer, you can further simplify the radical using the product rule of radicals:
- Product rule of radicals: √ab = √a × √b
√12 = √4 × √3 = 2√3.

<h2>Answer:</h2>
In exact form, your answer is 
In approximate form, your answers are (rounded to the hundreths) 
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