1. The problem asks us to find which of the points 9.5, 9.6, 9.7, 9.8, 9.9, or 10 is closest to $\sqrt{97}$. 2. First, calculate $\sqrt{97}$. Use a calculator or approximate: $$\sqrt{97} \approx 9.8489$$ 3. Now compare $9.8489$ to the given points: - 9.5 is too low (difference $= 9.8489 - 9.5 = 0.3489$) - 9.6 is still less (difference $= 0.2489$) - 9.7 closer but still off (difference $= 0.1489$) - 9.8 very close (difference $= 0.0489$) - 9.9 slightly greater (difference $= 0.0511$) - 10 is farther (difference $= 0.1511$) 4. The closest value to $\sqrt{97}$ is 9.8 (point labeled e). **Final answer:** B e