In a linear equation, the independent variable increases at a constant rate while the dependent variable decreases at a constant rate. The slope of this line is

A. zero

B. negative

C. positive

D. undefined

This just means that your x-values (independent) are increasing (which is usually the case). Such as 0,1,2,3,4,5. While the y-values (dependent) are decreasing. such as - 5,-4,-3,-2,-1,0. Since the y-values are decreasing, this must mean the slope has to be negative.