A linear relationship is a connection between two variables that can be represented by a straight line on a graph. In this relationship, as one variable increases or decreases, the other variable changes at a constant rate. This means that the ratio of change between the two variables remains the same, which can be expressed with a mathematical equation in the form of y = mx + b, where m is the slope and b is the y-intercept. Linear relationships are commonly found in various fields, such as economics, science, and engineering. For example, the relationship between distance and time at a constant speed is linear, as both variables change proportionally. Understanding linear relationships helps in making predictions and analyzing trends in data.