Economists conduct research, collect and analyze data, monitor economic trends, and develop forecasts. They use their understanding of economic relationships to advise businesses, industry, and government agencies. For this assignment, you are tasked to be an economist consulting on a study to advise the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) on economic and demographic factors that might influence the amount of physical activity of the population. Understanding this nexus among economics, demographics, and physical activity will be vital for HHS to be able to focus its limited funding for a health improvement initiative.

In this assignment, you will demonstrate your mastery of the following course outcomes:

• Analyze quantitative data through the integration of appropriate and relevant mathematical objects such as matrices, polynomials, graphs, and derivatives to solve economic problems
• Apply appropriate data collection instruments and measures for planning and conducting economic research
• Analyze statistical data using appropriate statistical methodologies for the study of economic growth, business cycles, and other dynamic business behavior
• Apply probability theory in making economic decisions to competitively position a business Prompt

The aim of the HHS initiative, known as NEXI (National Economics of Exercise Initiative), is to increase the amount of leisure-time physical activity of the population for health and economic benefits. A secondary aim of NEXI is to provide some directions for small businesses, nonprofits, and states to apply for contracts and grants, which will provide more leisure-time physical activities to the U.S. population.

Therefore, your empirical analysis should answer the following questions:

• What are some economic and demographic factors that influence the level of leisure-time physical activity?

• Which states and which geographical regions might benefit the most from NEXI?

• What kind of businesses can monetarily benefit by creating services for NEXI (based on your findings for the previous questions)? What are the optimal services?