1. The problem is to interpret the linear equation $y = 1772 + 334x$ in the context of eagle breeding pairs over time. 2. The equation is in the form $y = mx + b$, where $m$ is the slope and $b$ is the y-intercept. 3. Here, $b = 1772$ represents the initial number of eagle breeding pairs at year $x=0$ (which corresponds to 1986). 4. The slope $m = 334$ represents the rate of change, meaning the number of additional eagle breeding pairs added each year after 1986. 5. Therefore, the correct interpretation is: - $1772$ eagle breeding pairs in 1986. - $334$ additional pairs each year after 1986. 6. Matching these to the options: - Option A: Incorrect, 334 is the slope, not the initial number. - Option B: Correct, 334 additional pairs each year. - Option C: Incorrect, 1772 is the initial number, not the yearly increase. - Option D: Correct, 1772 pairs in 1986. Final answer: Options B and D are correct.