Question ID 3f5a3602

Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Systems of two linear

equations in two
variables

ID: 3f5a3602

What system of linear equations is represented by the lines shown?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 3f5a3602 Answer

Correct Answer: D
Rationale
𝑦2 - 𝑦1
Choice D is correct. A line in the xy-plane that passes through the points 𝑥1 , 𝑦1 and 𝑥2 , 𝑦2 has slope 𝑚, where 𝑚 = ,
𝑥2 - 𝑥1
and can be defined by an equation of the form 𝑦 - 𝑦1 = 𝑚𝑥 - 𝑥1 . One of the lines shown in the graph passes through the
𝑦 -𝑦 4-0
points 8, 0 and 3, 4. Substituting 8 for 𝑥1 , 0 for 𝑦1 , 3 for 𝑥2 , and 4 for 𝑦2 in the equation 𝑚 = 𝑥2 - 𝑥1 yields 𝑚 = 3 - 8 , or
2 1
4 4 4
𝑚 = - . Substituting - for 𝑚, 8 for 𝑥1 and 0 for 𝑦1 in the equation 𝑦 - 𝑦1 = 𝑚𝑥 - 𝑥1 yields 𝑦 - 0 = - 𝑥 - 8, which is
5 5 5
4 32 4 4 32
equivalent to 𝑦 = - 5 𝑥 + 5
. Adding 5 𝑥 to both sides of this equation yields 5 𝑥 + 𝑦 = 5
. Multiplying both sides of this
equation by -10 yields -8𝑥 - 10𝑦 = - 64. Therefore, an equation of this line is -8𝑥 - 10𝑦 = - 64. Similarly, the other line
shown in the graph passes through the points 8, 0 and 3, 2. Substituting 8 for 𝑥1 , 0 for 𝑦1 , 3 for 𝑥2 , and 2 for 𝑦2 in the
𝑦 -𝑦 2-0 2 2
equation 𝑚 = 2 1 yields 𝑚 =
𝑥2 - 𝑥1
, or 𝑚 = - . Substituting - for 𝑚, 8 for 𝑥1 , and 0 for 𝑦1 in the equation 𝑦 - 𝑦1 = 𝑚𝑥 - 𝑥1
3-8 5 5
2 2 16 2 2 16
yields 𝑦 - 0 = - 5 𝑥 - 8, which is equivalent to 𝑦 = - 5 𝑥 + 5
. Adding 5 𝑥 to both sides of this equation yields 5 𝑥 + 𝑦 = 5
.
Multiplying both sides of this equation by 10 yields 4𝑥 + 10𝑦 = 32. Therefore, an equation of this line is 4𝑥 + 10𝑦 = 32.
So, the system of linear equations represented by the lines shown is 4𝑥 + 10𝑦 = 32 and -8𝑥 - 10𝑦 = - 64.

Choice A is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 3008cfc3
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear equations in

two variables

ID: 3008cfc3

The table gives the coordinates of two points on a line in the xy-plane. The y-intercept of the line is , where
and are constants. What is the value of ?

ID: 3008cfc3 Answer

Correct Answer: 33

Rationale
The correct answer is 33. It’s given in the table that the coordinates of two points on a line in the xy-plane are ( 𝑘, 13 )
and ( 𝑘 + 7, - 15 ) . The y-intercept is another point on the line. The slope computed using any pair of points from the line
will be the same. The slope of a line, 𝑚, between any two points, 𝑥1 , 𝑦1 and 𝑥2 , 𝑦2 , on the line can be calculated using the
𝑦 -𝑦
slope formula, 𝑚 = 𝑥2 - 𝑥1 . It follows that the slope of the line with the given points from the table, ( 𝑘, 13 ) and
2 1
-15 - 13 -28
( 𝑘 + 7, - 15 ) , is 𝑚 = 𝑘+7-𝑘
, which is equivalent to 𝑚 = 7
, or 𝑚 = - 4. It's given that the y-intercept of the line is
( 𝑘 - 5, 𝑏 ) . Substituting -4 for 𝑚 and the coordinates of the points ( 𝑘 - 5, 𝑏 ) and ( 𝑘, 13 ) into the slope formula yields
13 - 𝑏 13 - 𝑏 13 - 𝑏
-4 = , which is equivalent to -4 = , or -4 = . Multiplying both sides of this equation by 5 yields -20 = 13 - 𝑏
𝑘-𝑘-5 𝑘-𝑘+5 5
. Subtracting 13 from both sides of this equation yields -33 = - 𝑏. Dividing both sides of this equation by -1 yields 𝑏 = 33.
Therefore, the value of 𝑏 is 33.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID d1b66ae6
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Systems of two linear

equations in two
variables

ID: d1b66ae6

If satisfies the system of equations

above, what is the value of y ?

ID: d1b66ae6 Answer

Rationale

The correct answer is . One method for solving the system of equations for y is to add corresponding sides of the two
equations. Adding the left-hand sides gives , or 4y. Adding the right-hand sides yields

. It follows that . Finally, dividing both sides of by 4 yields or . Note that 3/2 and 1.5 are
examples of ways to enter a correct answer.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 3cdbf026
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear equations in

two variables

ID: 3cdbf026

The graph of the equation is a line in the xy-plane, where a and k are

constants. If the line contains the points and , what is the value
of k ?

A.

B.

C. 2

D. 3

ID: 3cdbf026 Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is correct. The value of k can be found using the slope-intercept form of a linear equation, , where
m is the slope and b is the y-coordinate of the y-intercept. The equation can be rewritten in the form

. One of the given points, , is the y-intercept. Thus, the y-coordinate of the y-intercept must be

equal to . Multiplying both sides by k gives . Dividing both sides by gives .

Choices B, C, and D are incorrect and may result from errors made rewriting the given equation.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID ff501705
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Systems of two linear

equations in two
variables

ID: ff501705

In the given system of equations, is a constant. If the system has no solution, what is the value of ?

ID: ff501705 Answer

Correct Answer: 6

Rationale
The correct answer is 6. A system of two linear equations in two variables, 𝑥 and 𝑦, has no solution if the lines
represented by the equations in the xy-plane are parallel and distinct. Lines represented by equations in standard form,
𝐴𝑥 + 𝐵𝑦 = 𝐶 and 𝐷𝑥 + 𝐸𝑦 = 𝐹, are parallel if the coefficients for 𝑥 and 𝑦 in one equation are proportional to the
𝐷 𝐸
corresponding coefficients in the other equation, meaning = ; and the lines are distinct if the constants are not
𝐴 𝐵
𝐹 𝐷 𝐸 3 1 2 3
proportional, meaning 𝐶
is not equal to 𝐴
or 𝐵 . The first equation in the given system is 2 𝑦 - 4 𝑥 = 3
- 𝑦. Multiplying each
2
side of this equation by 12 yields 18𝑦 - 3𝑥 = 8 - 18𝑦. Adding 18𝑦 to each side of this equation yields 36𝑦 - 3𝑥 = 8, or
1 3 9
-3𝑥 + 36𝑦 = 8. The second equation in the given system is 2 𝑥 + 2 = 𝑝𝑦 + 2 . Multiplying each side of this equation by 2
yields 𝑥 + 3 = 2𝑝𝑦 + 9. Subtracting 2𝑝𝑦 from each side of this equation yields 𝑥 + 3 - 2𝑝𝑦 = 9. Subtracting 3 from each
side of this equation yields 𝑥 - 2𝑝𝑦 = 6. Therefore, the two equations in the given system, written in standard form, are
-3𝑥 + 36𝑦 = 8 and 𝑥 - 2𝑝𝑦 = 6. As previously stated, if this system has no solution, the lines represented by the
1 -2𝑝 1 𝑝
equations in the xy-plane are parallel and distinct, meaning the proportion -3
=
36
, or - 3 = - 18 , is true and the proportion
6 1 6 1 1 𝑝
8
=
-3
is not true. The proportion 8
=
-3
is not true. Multiplying each side of the true proportion, - 3 = - 18 , by -18 yields
6 = 𝑝. Therefore, if the system has no solution, then the value of 𝑝 is 6.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 8c5e6702
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear functions

ID: 8c5e6702

A window repair specialist charges for the first two hours of repair plus an hourly fee for each additional hour. The
total cost for hours of repair is . Which function gives the total cost, in dollars, for hours of repair, where
?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 8c5e6702 Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is correct. It’s given that the window repair specialist charges $ 220 for the first two hours of repair plus an
hourly fee for each additional hour. Let 𝑛 represent the hourly fee for each additional hour after the first two hours. Since
it’s given that 𝑥 is the number of hours of repair, it follows that the charge generated by the hourly fee after the first two
hours can be represented by the expression 𝑛𝑥 - 2. Therefore, the total cost, in dollars, for 𝑥 hours of repair is
𝑓𝑥 = 220 + 𝑛𝑥 - 2. It’s given that the total cost for 5 hours of repair is $ 400. Substituting 5 for 𝑥 and 400 for 𝑓𝑥 into the
equation 𝑓𝑥 = 220 + 𝑛𝑥 - 2 yields 400 = 220 + 𝑛5 - 2, or 400 = 220 + 3𝑛. Subtracting 220 from both sides of this
equation yields 180 = 3𝑛. Dividing both sides of this equation by 3 yields 𝑛 = 60. Substituting 60 for 𝑛 in the equation
𝑓𝑥 = 220 + 𝑛𝑥 - 2 yields 𝑓𝑥 = 220 + 60𝑥 - 2, which is equivalent to 𝑓𝑥 = 220 + 60𝑥 - 120, or 𝑓𝑥 = 60𝑥 + 100.
Therefore, the total cost, in dollars, for 𝑥 hours of repair is 𝑓𝑥 = 60𝑥 + 100.

Choice B is incorrect. This function represents the total cost, in dollars, for 𝑥 hours of repair where the specialist charges
$ 340, rather than $ 220, for the first two hours of repair.

Choice C is incorrect. This function represents the total cost, in dollars, for 𝑥 hours of repair where the specialist charges
$ 160, rather than $ 220, for the first two hours of repair, and an hourly fee of $ 80, rather than $ 60, after the first two
hours.

Choice D is incorrect. This function represents the total cost, in dollars, for 𝑥 hours of repair where the specialist charges
$ 380, rather than $ 220, for the first two hours of repair, and an hourly fee of $ 80, rather than $ 60, after the first two
hours.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 2937ef4f
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear equations in

one variable

ID: 2937ef4f

Hector used a tool called an auger to remove corn from a storage bin at a
constant rate. The bin contained 24,000 bushels of corn when Hector began to
use the auger. After 5 hours of using the auger, 19,350 bushels of corn remained
in the bin. If the auger continues to remove corn at this rate, what is the total
number of hours Hector will have been using the auger when 12,840 bushels of
corn remain in the bin?

A. 3

B. 7

C. 8

D. 12

ID: 2937ef4f Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. After using the auger for 5 hours, Hector had removed 24,000 – 19,350 = 4,650 bushels of corn from

the storage bin. During the 5-hour period, the auger removed corn from the bin at a constant rate of
bushels per hour. Assuming the auger continues to remove corn at this rate, after x hours it will have removed 930x
bushels of corn. Because the bin contained 24,000 bushels of corn when Hector started using the auger, the equation
24,000 – 930x = 12,840 can be used to find the number of hours, x, Hector will have been using the auger when 12,840
bushels of corn remain in the bin. Subtracting 12,840 from both sides of this equation and adding 930x to both sides of
the equation yields 11,160 = 930x. Dividing both sides of this equation by 930 yields x = 12. Therefore, Hector will have
been using the auger for 12 hours when 12,840 bushels of corn remain in the storage bin.

Choice A is incorrect. Three hours after Hector began using the auger, 24,000 – 3(930) = 21,210 bushels of corn
remained, not 12,840. Choice B is incorrect. Seven hours after Hector began using the auger, 24,000 – 7(930) = 17,490
bushels of corn will remain, not 12,840. Choice C is incorrect. Eight hours after Hector began using the auger, 24,000 –
8(930) = 16,560 bushels of corn will remain, not 12,840.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 9bbce683
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear equations in

two variables

ID: 9bbce683

For line , the table shows three values of and their corresponding values of . Line is the result of translating line
down units in the xy-plane. What is the x-intercept of line ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 9bbce683 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. The equation of line ℎ can be written in slope-intercept form 𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 + 𝑏, where 𝑚 is the slope of the
line and 0, 𝑏 is the y-intercept of the line. It’s given that line ℎ contains the points 18, 130, 23, 160, and 26, 178. Therefore,
160 - 130
its slope 𝑚 can be found as 23 - 18
, or 6. Substituting 6 for 𝑚 in the equation 𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 + 𝑏 yields 𝑦 = 6𝑥 + 𝑏. Substituting
130 for 𝑦 and 18 for 𝑥 in this equation yields 130 = 6 ( 18 ) + 𝑏, or 130 = 108 + 𝑏. Subtracting 108 from both sides of this
equation yields 22 = 𝑏. Substituting 22 for 𝑏 in 𝑦 = 6𝑥 + 𝑏 yields 𝑦 = 6𝑥 + 22. Since line 𝑘 is the result of translating line ℎ
down 5 units, an equation of line 𝑘 is 𝑦 = 6𝑥 + 22 - 5, or 𝑦 = 6𝑥 + 17. Substituting 0 for 𝑦 in this equation yields
17 17
0 = 6𝑥 + 17. Solving this equation for 𝑥 yields 𝑥 = - . Therefore, the x-intercept of line 𝑘 is - , 0.
6 6

Choice A is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 2b15d65f
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear functions

ID: 2b15d65f

An economist modeled the demand Q for a certain product as a linear function

of the selling price P. The demand was 20,000 units when the selling price was
$40 per unit, and the demand was 15,000 units when the selling price was $60
per unit. Based on the model, what is the demand, in units, when the selling price
is $55 per unit?

A. 16,250

B. 16,500

C. 16,750

D. 17,500

ID: 2b15d65f Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is correct. Let the economist’s model be the linear function , where Q is the demand, P is the
selling price, m is the slope of the line, and b is the y-coordinate of the y-intercept of the line in the xy-plane, where .
Two pairs of the selling price P and the demand Q are given. Using the coordinate pairs , two points that satisfy the
function are and . The slope m of the function can be found using the formula

. Substituting the given values into this formula yields , or .

Therefore, . The value of b can be found by substituting one of the points into the function. Substituting
the values of P and Q from the point yields , or . Adding
10,000 to both sides of this equation yields . Therefore, the linear function the economist used as the model
is . Substituting 55 for P yields . It follows that when the
selling price is $55 per unit, the demand is 16,250 units.

Choices B, C, and D are incorrect and may result from calculation or conceptual errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 686b7244
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear equations in

two variables

ID: 686b7244

A certain apprentice has enrolled in hours of training courses. The equation represents this
situation, where is the number of on-site training courses and is the number of online training courses this apprentice
has enrolled in. How many more hours does each online training course take than each on-site training course?

ID: 686b7244 Answer

Correct Answer: 5

Rationale
The correct answer is 5. It's given that the equation 10𝑥 + 15𝑦 = 85 represents the situation, where 𝑥 is the number of on-
site training courses, 𝑦 is the number of online training courses, and 85 is the total number of hours of training courses
the apprentice has enrolled in. Therefore, 10𝑥 represents the number of hours the apprentice has enrolled in on-site
training courses, and 15𝑦 represents the number of hours the apprentice has enrolled in online training courses. Since 𝑥
is the number of on-site training courses and 𝑦 is the number of online training courses the apprentice has enrolled in, 10
is the number of hours each on-site course takes and 15 is the number of hours each online course takes. Subtracting
these numbers gives 15 - 10, or 5 more hours each online training course takes than each on-site training course.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 1b1deebe
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Systems of two linear

equations in two
variables

ID: 1b1deebe

In the given system of equations, and are constants. The graphs of these equations in the xy-plane intersect at the
point . What is the value of ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 1b1deebe Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. It’s given that the graphs of the given system of equations intersect at the point 4, 𝑦. Therefore, 4, 𝑦 is
the solution to the given system. Multiplying the first equation in the given system by -2 yields -2𝑎𝑥 - 2𝑏𝑦 = -144. Adding
this equation to the second equation in the system yields -2𝑎 + 6𝑥 + -2𝑏 + 2𝑏𝑦 = -144 + 56, or -2𝑎 + 6𝑥 = - 88. Since 4, 𝑦
is the solution to the system, the value of 𝑎 can be found by substituting 4 for 𝑥 in this equation, which yields
-2𝑎 + 64 = - 88. Dividing both sides of this equation by 4 yields -2𝑎 + 6 = -22. Subtracting 6 from both sides of this
equation yields -2𝑎 = -28. Dividing both sides of this equation by -2 yields 𝑎 = 14.

Choice A is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID be9cb6a2
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear functions

ID: be9cb6a2

The cost of renting a backhoe for up to days is for the first day and for each additional day. Which of the
following equations gives the cost , in dollars, of renting the backhoe for days, where is a positive integer and
?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: be9cb6a2 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. It's given that the cost of renting a backhoe for up to 10 days is $ 270 for the first day and $ 135 for
each additional day. Therefore, the cost 𝑦, in dollars, for 𝑥 days, where 𝑥 ≤ 10, is the sum of the cost for the first day,
$ 270, and the cost for the additional 𝑥 - 1 days, $ 135𝑥 - 1. It follows that 𝑦 = 270 + 135𝑥 - 1, which is equivalent to
𝑦 = 270 + 135𝑥 - 135, or 𝑦 = 135𝑥 + 135.

Choice A is incorrect. This equation represents a situation where the cost of renting a backhoe is $ 135 for the first day
and $ 270 for each additional day.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID db422e7f
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear equations in

two variables

ID: db422e7f

Line is defined by . Line is perpendicular to line in the xy-plane. What is the slope of line ?

ID: db422e7f Answer

Correct Answer: .5, 1/2

Rationale
1
The correct answer is 2 . For an equation in slope-intercept form 𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 + 𝑏, 𝑚 represents the slope of the line in the xy-
plane defined by this equation. It's given that line 𝑝 is defined by 4𝑦 + 8𝑥 = 6. Subtracting 8𝑥 from both sides of this
8 6 3
equation yields 4𝑦 = - 8𝑥 + 6. Dividing both sides of this equation by 4 yields 𝑦 = - 4 𝑥 + 4 , or 𝑦 = - 2𝑥 + 2 . Thus, the
slope of line 𝑝 is -2. If line 𝑟 is perpendicular to line 𝑝, then the slope of line 𝑟 is the negative reciprocal of the slope of line
1 1
𝑝. The negative reciprocal of -2 is - = . Note that 1/2 and .5 are examples of ways to enter a correct answer.
-2 2

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 45cfb9de
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear inequalities in

one or two variables

ID: 45cfb9de

Adam’s school is a 20-minute walk or a 5-minute bus ride away from his house.
The bus runs once every 30 minutes, and the number of minutes, w, that Adam
waits for the bus varies between 0 and 30. Which of the following inequalities
gives the values of w for which it would be faster for Adam to walk to school?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 45cfb9de Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. It is given that w is the number of minutes that Adam waits for the bus. The total time it takes Adam
to get to school on a day he takes the bus is the sum of the minutes, w, he waits for the bus and the 5 minutes the bus
ride takes; thus, this time, in minutes, is w + 5. It is also given that the total amount of time it takes Adam to get to school
on a day that he walks is 20 minutes. Therefore, w + 5 > 20 gives the values of w for which it would be faster for Adam to
walk to school.

Choices A and B are incorrect because w – 5 is not the total length of time for Adam to wait for and then take the bus to
school. Choice C is incorrect because the inequality should be true when walking 20 minutes is faster than the time it
takes Adam to wait for and ride the bus, not less.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 797a81fb
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Systems of two linear

equations in two
variables

ID: 797a81fb

How many solutions does the given system of equations have?

A. Exactly one

B. Exactly two

C. Infinitely many

D. Zero

ID: 797a81fb Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. A system of two linear equations in two variables, 𝑥 and 𝑦, has zero solutions if the lines representing
the equations in the xy-plane are distinct and parallel. Two lines are distinct and parallel if they have the same slope but
different y-intercepts. Each equation in the given system can be written in slope-intercept form 𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 + 𝑏, where 𝑚 is
the slope of the line representing the equation in the xy-plane and 0, 𝑏 is the y-intercept. Adding 12𝑥 to both sides of the
first equation in the given system of equations, -12𝑥 + 14𝑦 = 36, yields 14𝑦 = 12𝑥 + 36. Dividing both sides of this
6 18 6
equation by 14 yields 𝑦 = 7 𝑥 + 7
. It follows that the first equation in the given system of equations has a slope of 7
and
18
a y-intercept of 0, 7
. Adding 6𝑥 to both sides of the second equation in the given system of equations, -6𝑥 + 7𝑦 = - 18,
6 18
yields 7𝑦 = 6𝑥 - 18. Dividing both sides of this equation by 7 yields 𝑦 = 𝑥 - . It follows that the second equation in the
7 7
6 18
given system of equations has a slope of 7
and a y-intercept of 0, - 7
. Since the slopes of these lines are the same and
the y-intercepts are different, it follows that the given system of equations has zero solutions.

Alternate approach: To solve the system by elimination, multiplying the second equation in the given system of
equations, -6𝑥 + 7𝑦 = - 18, by -2 yields 12𝑥 - 14𝑦 = 36. Adding this equation to the first equation in the given system of
equations, -12𝑥 + 14𝑦 = 36, yields ( - 12𝑥 + 12𝑥 ) + ( - 14𝑦 + 14𝑦 ) = 36 + 36, or 0 = 72. Since this equation isn't true,
the given system of equations has zero solutions.

Choice A is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID b5f62071
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Systems of two linear

equations in two
variables

ID: b5f62071

In the given system of equations, is a constant. If the system has no solution, what is the value of ?

ID: b5f62071 Answer

Correct Answer: -28

Rationale
The correct answer is -28. A system of two linear equations in two variables, 𝑥 and 𝑦, has no solution if the lines
represented by the equations in the xy-plane are distinct and parallel. The graphs of two lines in the xy-plane represented
by equations in the form 𝐴𝑥 + 𝐵𝑦 = 𝐶, where 𝐴, 𝐵, and 𝐶 are constants, are parallel if the coefficients for 𝑥 and 𝑦 in one
equation are proportional to the corresponding coefficients for 𝑥 and 𝑦 in the other equation. The first equation in the
given system, 48𝑥 - 64𝑦 = 48𝑦 + 24, can be written in the form 𝐴𝑥 + 𝐵𝑦 = 𝐶 by subtracting 48𝑦 from both sides of the
1
equation to yield 48𝑥 - 112𝑦 = 24. The second equation in the given system, 𝑟𝑦 = 8
- 12𝑥, can be written in the form
1
𝐴𝑥 + 𝐵𝑦 = 𝐶 by adding 12𝑥 to both sides of the equation to yield 12𝑥 + 𝑟𝑦 = . The coefficient of 𝑥 in the second
8
1 1
equation is times the coefficient of 𝑥 in the first equation. That is, 48 = 12. For the lines to be parallel, the coefficient of
4 4
1 1
𝑦 in the second equation must also be times the coefficient of 𝑦 in the first equation. Therefore, -112 4 = 𝑟, or -28 = 𝑟.
4
Thus, if the given system has no solution, the value of 𝑟 is -28.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 38bf4e04
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear equations in

one variable

ID: 38bf4e04

A factory makes -inch, -inch, and -inch concrete screws. During a certain day, the number of -inch concrete screws
that the factory makes is times the number of -inch concrete screws, and the number of -inch concrete screws is
. During this day, the factory makes concrete screws total. Which equation represents this situation?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 38bf4e04 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. It's given that during a certain day at a factory, the number of 7-inch concrete screws the factory
makes is 𝑛 and the number of 4-inch concrete screws the factory makes is 22. It's also given that during this day the
number of 9-inch concrete screws the factory makes is 5 times the number of 7-inch concrete screws, or 5𝑛. Therefore,
the total number of 7-inch, 9-inch, and 4-inch concrete screws is 𝑛 + 5𝑛 + 22, or 6𝑛 + 22. It's given that during this day, the
factory makes 100 concrete screws total. Thus, the equation 6𝑛 + 22 = 100 represents this situation.

Choice A is incorrect. This equation represents a situation where the total length, in inches, of all the concrete screws,
rather than the total number of concrete screws, is 100.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice C is incorrect. This equation represents a situation where the total number of 9-inch concrete screws and 4-inch
concrete screws, not including the 7-inch concrete screws, is 100.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID b7e6394d
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear equations in

one variable

ID: b7e6394d

Alan drives an average of 100 miles each week. His car can travel an average of
25 miles per gallon of gasoline. Alan would like to reduce his weekly expenditure
on gasoline by $5. Assuming gasoline costs $4 per gallon, which equation can
Alan use to determine how many fewer average miles, m, he should drive each
week?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: b7e6394d Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. Since gasoline costs $4 per gallon, and since Alan’s car travels an average of 25 miles per gallon, the

expression gives the cost, in dollars per mile, to drive the car. Multiplying by m gives the cost for Alan to drive

m miles in his car. Alan wants to reduce his weekly spending by $5, so setting m equal to 5 gives the number of
miles, m, by which he must reduce his driving.

Choices A, B, and C are incorrect. Choices A and B transpose the numerator and the denominator in the fraction. The

fraction would result in the unit miles per dollar, but the question requires a unit of dollars per mile. Choices A and C
set the expression equal to 95 instead of 5, a mistake that may result from a misconception that Alan wants to reduce
his driving by 5 miles each week; instead, the question says he wants to reduce his weekly expenditure by $5.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 95cad55f
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear inequalities in

one or two variables

ID: 95cad55f

A laundry service is buying detergent and fabric softener from its supplier. The
supplier will deliver no more than 300 pounds in a shipment. Each container of
detergent weighs 7.35 pounds, and each container of fabric softener weighs
6.2 pounds. The service wants to buy at least twice as many containers of
detergent as containers of fabric softener. Let d represent the number of
containers of detergent, and let s represent the number of containers of fabric
softener, where d and s are nonnegative integers. Which of the following
systems of inequalities best represents this situation?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 95cad55f Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is correct. The number of containers in a shipment must have a weight less than or equal to 300 pounds. The
total weight, in pounds, of detergent and fabric softener that the supplier delivers can be expressed as the weight of each
container multiplied by the number of each type of container, which is 7.35d for detergent and 6.2s for fabric softener.
Since this total cannot exceed 300 pounds, it follows that . Also, since the laundry service wants to
buy at least twice as many containers of detergent as containers of fabric softener, the number of containers of
detergent should be greater than or equal to two times the number of containers of fabric softener. This can be
expressed by the inequality .

Choice B is incorrect because it misrepresents the relationship between the numbers of each container that the laundry
service wants to buy. Choice C is incorrect because the first inequality of the system incorrectly doubles the weight per
container of detergent. The weight of each container of detergent is 7.35, not 14.7 pounds. Choice D is incorrect because
it doubles the weight per container of detergent and transposes the relationship between the numbers of containers.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID ee2f611f
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear inequalities in

one or two variables

ID: ee2f611f

A local transit company sells a monthly pass for $95 that allows an unlimited
number of trips of any length. Tickets for individual trips cost $1.50, $2.50, or
$3.50, depending on the length of the trip. What is the minimum number of trips
per month for which a monthly pass could cost less than purchasing individual
tickets for trips?

ID: ee2f611f Answer

Rationale
The correct answer is 28. The minimum number of individual trips for which the cost of the monthly pass is less than the
cost of individual tickets can be found by assuming the maximum cost of the individual tickets, $3.50. If n tickets costing
$3.50 each are purchased in one month, the inequality 95 < 3.50n represents this situation. Dividing both sides of the
inequality by 3.50 yields 27.14 < n, which is equivalent to n > 27.14. Since only a whole number of tickets can be
purchased, it follows that 28 is the minimum number of trips.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 25e1cfed
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear equations in

one variable

ID: 25e1cfed

How many solutions does the equation have?

A. Exactly one

B. Exactly two

C. Infinitely many

D. Zero

ID: 25e1cfed Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is correct. Applying the distributive property to each side of the given equation yields 150𝑥 - 90 = - 90 + 150𝑥.
Applying the commutative property of addition to the right-hand side of this equation yields 150𝑥 - 90 = 150𝑥 - 90. Since
the two sides of the equation are equivalent, this equation is true for any value of 𝑥. Therefore, the given equation has
infinitely many solutions.

Choice A is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice D is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID fdee0fbf
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear equations in

two variables

ID: fdee0fbf

In the xy-plane, line k intersects the y-axis at the point and passes
through the point . If the point lies on line k, what is the value of w
?

ID: fdee0fbf Answer

Rationale
The correct answer is 74. The y-intercept of a line in the xy-plane is the ordered pair of the point of intersection of

the line with the y-axis. Since line k intersects the y-axis at the point , it follows that is the y-intercept of
this line. An equation of any line in the xy-plane can be written in the form , where m is the slope of the line
and b is the y-coordinate of the y-intercept. Therefore, the equation of line k can be written as , or
. The value of m can be found by substituting the x- and y-coordinates from a point on the line, such as ,
for x and y, respectively. This results in . Solving this equation for m gives . Therefore, an equation of
line k is . The value of w can be found by substituting the x-coordinate, 20, for x in the equation of line k and
solving this equation for y. This gives , or . Since w is the y-coordinate of this point, .

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 541bef2f
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear inequalities in

one or two variables

ID: 541bef2f

Which point is a solution to the given system of inequalities in the xy-plane?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 541bef2f Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. A point 𝑥, 𝑦 is a solution to a system of inequalities in the xy-plane if substituting the x-coordinate
and the y-coordinate of the point for 𝑥 and 𝑦, respectively, in each inequality makes both of the inequalities true.
Substituting the x-coordinate and the y-coordinate of choice D, 14 and 0, for 𝑥 and 𝑦, respectively, in the first inequality in
the given system, 𝑦 ≤ 𝑥 + 7, yields 0 ≤ 14 + 7, or 0 ≤ 21, which is true. Substituting 14 for 𝑥 and 0 for 𝑦 in the second
inequality in the given system, 𝑦 ≥ - 2𝑥 - 1, yields 0 ≥ - 214 - 1, or 0 ≥ - 29, which is true. Therefore, the point 14, 0 is a
solution to the given system of inequalities in the xy-plane.

Choice A is incorrect. Substituting -14 for 𝑥 and 0 for 𝑦 in the inequality 𝑦 ≤ 𝑥 + 7 yields 0 ≤ - 14 + 7, or 0 ≤ - 7, which is
not true.

Choice B is incorrect. Substituting 0 for 𝑥 and -14 for 𝑦 in the inequality 𝑦 ≥ - 2𝑥 - 1 yields -14 ≥ - 20 - 1, or -14 ≥ - 1,
which is not true.

Choice C is incorrect. Substituting 0 for 𝑥 and 14 for 𝑦 in the inequality 𝑦 ≤ 𝑥 + 7 yields 14 ≤ 0 + 7, or 14 ≤ 7, which is not
true.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID f75bd744
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Systems of two linear

equations in two
variables

ID: f75bd744

In the given system of equations, is a constant. If the system has no solution, what is the value of ?

ID: f75bd744 Answer

Correct Answer: 8

Rationale
The correct answer is 8. The given system of equations can be solved using the elimination method. Multiplying both
sides of the second equation in the given system by -2 yields -2𝑡𝑦 = - 1 - 4𝑥, or -1 - 4𝑥 = - 2𝑡𝑦. Adding this equation to
the first equation in the given system, 4𝑥 - 6𝑦 = 10𝑦 + 2, yields 4𝑥 - 6𝑦 + -1 - 4𝑥 = 10𝑦 + 2 + -2𝑡𝑦, or
-1 - 6𝑦 = 10𝑦 - 2𝑡𝑦 + 2. Subtracting 10𝑦 from both sides of this equation yields -1 - 6𝑦 - 10𝑦 = 10𝑦 - 2𝑡𝑦 + 2 - 10𝑦, or
-1 - 16𝑦 = - 2𝑡𝑦 + 2. If the given system has no solution, then the equation -1 - 16𝑦 = - 2𝑡𝑦 + 2 has no solution. If this
equation has no solution, the coefficients of 𝑦 on each side of the equation, -16 and -2𝑡, must be equal, which yields the
equation -16 = - 2𝑡. Dividing both sides of this equation by -2 yields 8 = 𝑡. Thus, if the system has no solution, the value
of 𝑡 is 8.

Alternate approach: A system of two linear equations in two variables, 𝑥 and 𝑦, has no solution if the lines represented by
the equations in the xy-plane are parallel and distinct. Lines represented by equations in the form 𝐴𝑥 + 𝐵𝑦 = 𝐶, where 𝐴, 𝐵
, and 𝐶 are constant terms, are parallel if the ratio of the x-coefficients is equal to the ratio of the y-coefficients, and
distinct if the ratio of the x-coefficients are not equal to the ratio of the constant terms. Subtracting 10𝑦 from both sides
of the first equation in the given system yields 4𝑥 - 6𝑦 - 10𝑦 = 10𝑦 + 2 - 10𝑦, or 4𝑥 - 16𝑦 = 2. Subtracting 2𝑥 from both
1 1
sides of the second equation in the given system yields 𝑡𝑦 - 2𝑥 = 2
+ 2𝑥 - 2𝑥, or -2𝑥 + 𝑡𝑦 = 2 . The ratio of the x-
2 1 𝑡
coefficients for these equations is - 4 , or - 2 . The ratio of the y-coefficients for these equations is - 16 . The ratio of the
1
1 1
constant terms for these equations is 2, or . Since the ratio of the x-coefficients, - , is not equal to the ratio of the
2 4 2
1
constants, 4 , the lines represented by the equations are distinct. Setting the ratio of the x-coefficients equal to the ratio of
1 𝑡 1 𝑡
the y-coefficients yields - = - . Multiplying both sides of this equation by -16 yields - -16 = - -16, or 𝑡 = 8. Therefore,
2 16 2 16
when 𝑡 = 8, the lines represented by these equations are parallel. Thus, if the system has no solution, the value of 𝑡 is 8.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID d0e614a6
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear equations in

two variables

ID: d0e614a6

Which table gives three values of and their corresponding values of for the given equation?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: d0e614a6 Answer

Correct Answer: D
Rationale
Choice D is correct. Each of the tables gives the same three values of 𝑥: 1, 2, and 4. Substituting 1 for 𝑥 in the given
3 3 3 3 35 3 3 32
equation yields 1 + 𝑦 = 7, or + 𝑦 = . Subtracting from both sides of this equation yields 𝑦 = . Multiplying
5 4 5 4 5 5 4 5
4 128
both sides of this equation by 3
yields 𝑦 = 15
. Therefore, when 𝑥 = 1, the corresponding value of 𝑦 for the given equation
128 3 3 6 3 35 6
is . Substituting 2 for 𝑥 in the given equation yields 2 + 𝑦 = 7, or + 𝑦= . Subtracting from both sides of this
15 5 4 5 4 5 5
3 29 4 116
equation yields 4
𝑦 = 5
. Multiplying both sides of this equation by 3
yields 𝑦 = 15
. Therefore, when 𝑥 = 2, the
116 3 3
corresponding value of 𝑦 for the given equation is 15
. Substituting 4 for 𝑥 in the given equation yields 5 4 + 4 𝑦 = 7, or
12 3 35 12 3 23 4
5
+ 4𝑦 = 5
. Subtracting 5
from both sides of this equation yields 4 𝑦 = 5
. Multiplying both sides of this equation by 3
92 92
yields 𝑦 = . Therefore, when 𝑥 = 4, the corresponding value of 𝑦 for the given equation is . The table in choice D gives
15 15
128 116 92
x-values of 1, 2, and 4 and corresponding y-values of ,
15 15
, and 15
, respectively. Therefore, the table in choice D gives
three values of 𝑥 and their corresponding values of 𝑦 for the given equation.

Choice A is incorrect. This table gives three values of 𝑥 and their corresponding values of 𝑦 for the equation
3 3
5
𝑥 + 4 + 𝑦 = 7.

3
Choice B is incorrect. This table gives three values of 𝑥 and their corresponding values of 𝑦 for the equation 5 𝑥 + 𝑦 = 10.

3 3
Choice C is incorrect. This table gives three values of 𝑥 and their corresponding values of 𝑦 for the equation 𝑥 + 𝑦 = 8.
5 4

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID b3abf40f
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear functions

ID: b3abf40f

The function gives the temperature, in degrees Fahrenheit, that corresponds to a temperature of kelvins. If a
temperature increased by kelvins, by how much did the temperature increase, in degrees Fahrenheit?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: b3abf40f Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
9
Choice A is correct. It’s given that the function 𝐹𝑥 = 5 𝑥 - 273.15 + 32 gives the temperature, in degrees Fahrenheit, that
corresponds to a temperature of 𝑥 kelvins. A temperature that increased by 9.10 kelvins means that the value of 𝑥
9
increased by 9.10 kelvins. It follows that an increase in 𝑥 by 9.10 increases 𝐹 ( 𝑥 ) by 9.10, or 16.38. Therefore, if a
5
temperature increased by 9.10 kelvins, the temperature increased by 16.38 degrees Fahrenheit.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice D is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID e6cb2402
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear equations in

one variable

ID: e6cb2402

In the given equation, is a constant. The equation has no solution. What is the value of ?

ID: e6cb2402 Answer

Correct Answer: .9411, .9412, 16/17

Rationale
16 48
The correct answer is 17
. It's given that the equation 3𝑘𝑥 + 13 = 17
𝑥 + 36 has no solution. A linear equation in the form
𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏 = 𝑐𝑥 + 𝑑, where 𝑎, 𝑏, 𝑐, and 𝑑 are constants, has no solution only when the coefficients of 𝑥 on each side of the
equation are equal and the constant terms aren't equal. Dividing both sides of the given equation by 3 yields
48 36 16
𝑘𝑥 + 13 = 𝑥 + , or 𝑘𝑥 + 13 = 𝑥 + 12. Since the coefficients of 𝑥 on each side of the equation must be equal, it
51 3 17
16
follows that the value of 𝑘 is . Note that 16/17, .9411, .9412, and 0.941 are examples of ways to enter a correct answer.
17

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 415ab1d2
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear functions

ID: 415ab1d2

The graph of the linear function is shown. If and are positive constants, which equation could define
?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 415ab1d2 Answer

Correct Answer: A
Rationale
Choice A is correct. It’s given that the graph of the linear function 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥 + 19 is shown. This means that the graph of
𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥 + 19 can be translated down 19 units to create the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥 and the y-coordinate of every point on the
graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥 + 19 can be decreased by 19 to find the resulting point on the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥. The y-intercept of the
graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥 + 19 is 0, 3. Translating the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥 + 19 down 19 units results in a y-intercept of the graph of
𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥 at the point 0, 3 - 19, or 0, - 16. The graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥 + 19 slants down from left to right, so the slope of the graph is
negative. The translation of a linear graph changes its position, but does not change its slope. It follows that the slope of
the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥 is also negative. The equation of a linear function 𝑓 can be written in the form 𝑓𝑥 = 𝑏 + 𝑚𝑥, where 𝑏
is the y-coordinate of the y-intercept and 𝑚 is the slope of the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥. It's given that 𝑐 and 𝑑 are positive
constants. Since the y-coordinate of the y-intercept and the slope of the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥 are both negative, it follows that
𝑓𝑥 = - 𝑑 - 𝑐𝑥 could define 𝑓.

Choice B is incorrect. This could define a linear function where its graph has a positive, not negative, y-intercept.

Choice C is incorrect. This could define a linear function where its graph has a positive, not negative, slope.

Choice D is incorrect. This could define a linear function where its graph has a positive, not negative, y-intercept and a
positive, not negative, slope.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 6c71f3ec
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear inequalities in

one or two variables

ID: 6c71f3ec

A salesperson’s total earnings consist of a base salary of dollars per year, plus commission earnings of of the
total sales the salesperson makes during the year. This year, the salesperson has a goal for the total earnings to be at
least times and at most times the base salary. Which of the following inequalities represents all possible values of
total sales , in dollars, the salesperson can make this year in order to meet that goal?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 6c71f3ec Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is correct. It’s given that a salesperson's total earnings consist of a base salary of 𝑥 dollars per year plus
commission earnings of 11% of the total sales the salesperson makes during the year. If the salesperson makes 𝑠
dollars in total sales this year, the salesperson’s total earnings can be represented by the expression 𝑥 + 0.11𝑠. It’s also
given that the salesperson has a goal for the total earnings to be at least 3 times and at most 4 times the base salary,
which can be represented by the expressions 3𝑥 and 4𝑥, respectively. Therefore, this situation can be represented by the
inequality 3𝑥 ≤ 𝑥 + 0.11𝑠 ≤ 4𝑥. Subtracting 𝑥 from each part of this inequality yields 2𝑥 ≤ 0.11𝑠 ≤ 3𝑥. Dividing each part
2 3 2 3
of this inequality by 0.11 yields 𝑥≤𝑠≤
0.11
𝑥. Therefore, the inequality
0.11
𝑥≤𝑠≤
0.11
𝑥 represents all possible values
0.11
of total sales 𝑠, in dollars, the salesperson can make this year in order to meet their goal.

Choice A is incorrect. This inequality represents a situation in which the total sales, rather than the total earnings, are at
least 2 times and at most 3 times, rather than at least 3 times and at most 4 times, the base salary.

Choice C is incorrect. This inequality represents a situation in which the total sales, rather than the total earnings, are at
least 3 times and at most 4 times the base salary.

Choice D is incorrect. This inequality represents a situation in which the total earnings are at least 4 times and at most 5
times, rather than at least 3 times and at most 4 times, the base salary.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 9aaf7786
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear equations in

two variables

ID: 9aaf7786

In the xy-plane, line has a slope of and an x-intercept of . What is the y-coordinate of the y-intercept of line
?

ID: 9aaf7786 Answer

Correct Answer: -10

Rationale
The correct answer is -10. A line in the xy-plane can be represented by the equation 𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 + 𝑏, where 𝑚 is the slope of
5 5
the line and 𝑏 is the y-coordinate of the y-intercept. It's given that line 𝑝 has a slope of - 3 . Therefore, 𝑚 = - 3 . It's also
5
given that line 𝑝 has an x-intercept of -6, 0. Therefore, when 𝑥 = - 6, 𝑦 = 0. Substituting - 3 for 𝑚, -6 for 𝑥, and 0 for 𝑦 in the
5
equation 𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 + 𝑏 yields 0 = - -6 + 𝑏, which is equivalent to 0 = 10 + 𝑏. Subtracting 10 from both sides of this
3
equation yields -10 = 𝑏. Therefore, the y-coordinate of the y-intercept of line 𝑝 is -10.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID b988eeec
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear functions

ID: b988eeec

The functions and are defined as and . If the function is defined as

, what is the x-coordinate of the x-intercept of the graph of in the xy-plane?

ID: b988eeec Answer

Correct Answer: -12

Rationale
1 3
The correct answer is -12. It's given that the functions 𝑓 and 𝑔 are defined as 𝑓𝑥 = 4 𝑥 - 9 and 𝑔𝑥 = 4 𝑥 + 21. If the function
1 3
ℎ is defined as ℎ𝑥 = 𝑓𝑥 + 𝑔𝑥, then substituting 𝑥 - 9 for 𝑓𝑥 and 𝑥 + 21 for 𝑔𝑥 in this function yields
4 4
1 3 4
ℎ𝑥 = 4 𝑥 - 9 + 4 𝑥 + 21. This can be rewritten as ℎ𝑥 = 4 𝑥 + 12, or ℎ𝑥 = 𝑥 + 12. The x-intercept of a graph in the xy-plane is
the point on the graph where 𝑦 = 0. The equation representing the graph of 𝑦 = ℎ𝑥 is 𝑦 = 𝑥 + 12. Substituting 0 for 𝑦 in
this equation yields 0 = 𝑥 + 12. Subtracting 12 from both sides of this equation yields -12 = 𝑥, or 𝑥 = - 12. Therefore, the
x-coordinate of the x-intercept of the graph of 𝑦 = ℎ𝑥 in the xy-plane is -12.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 70feb725
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Systems of two linear

equations in two
variables

ID: 70feb725

During a month, Morgan ran r miles at 5 miles per hour and biked b miles at
10 miles per hour. She ran and biked a total of 200 miles that month, and she
biked for twice as many hours as she ran. What is the total number of miles that
Morgan biked during the month?

A. 80

B. 100

C. 120

D. 160

ID: 70feb725 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. The number of hours Morgan spent running or biking can be calculated by dividing the distance she
traveled during that activity by her speed, in miles per hour, for that activity. So the number of hours she ran can be

represented by the expression , and the number of hours she biked can be represented by the expression . It’s

given that she biked for twice as many hours as she ran, so this can be represented by the equation , which
can be rewritten as . It’s also given that she ran r miles and biked b miles, and that she ran and biked a total of 200
miles. This can be represented by the equation . Substituting for b in this equation yields , or
. Solving for r yields . Determining the number of miles she biked, b, can be found by substituting 40 for r
in , which yields . Solving for b yields .

Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because they don’t satisfy that Morgan biked for twice as many hours as she ran. In
choice A, if she biked 80 miles, then she ran 120 miles, which means she biked for 8 hours and ran for 24 hours. In choice
B, if she biked 100 miles, then she ran 100 miles, which means she biked for 10 hours and ran for 20 hours. In choice C, if
she biked 120 miles, then she ran for 80 miles, which means she biked for 12 hours and ran for 16 hours.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 1a621af4
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear inequalities in

one or two variables

ID: 1a621af4

A number is at most less than times the value of . If the value of is , what is the greatest possible value of ?

ID: 1a621af4 Answer

Correct Answer: -14

Rationale
The correct answer is -14. It's given that a number 𝑥 is at most 2 less than 3 times the value of 𝑦. Therefore, 𝑥 is less than
or equal to 2 less than 3 times the value of 𝑦. The expression 3𝑦 represents 3 times the value of 𝑦. The expression 3𝑦 - 2
represents 2 less than 3 times the value of 𝑦. Therefore, 𝑥 is less than or equal to 3𝑦 - 2. This can be shown by the
inequality 𝑥 ≤ 3𝑦 - 2. Substituting -4 for 𝑦 in this inequality yields 𝑥 ≤ 3-4 - 2 or, 𝑥 ≤ - 14. Therefore, if the value of 𝑦 is -4,
the greatest possible value of 𝑥 is -14.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID af2ba762
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear functions

ID: af2ba762
According to data provided by the US Department of Energy, the average price per gallon of regular gasoline in the
United States from September 1, 2014, to December 1, 2014, is modeled by the function F defined below, where
is the average price per gallon x months after September 1.

The constant 2.74 in this function estimates which of the following?

A. The average monthly decrease in the price per gallon

B. The difference in the average price per gallon from September 1, 2014, to December 1, 2014

C. The average price per gallon on September 1, 2014

D. The average price per gallon on December 1, 2014

ID: af2ba762 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. Since 2.74 is a constant term, it represents an actual price of gas rather than a measure of change in
gas price. To determine what gas price it represents, find x such that F(x) = 2.74, or 2.74 = 2.74 – 0.19(x – 3). Subtracting
2.74 from both sides gives 0 = –0.19(x – 3). Dividing both sides by –0.19 results in 0 = x – 3, or x = 3. Therefore, the
average price of gas is $2.74 per gallon 3 months after September 1, 2014, which is December 1, 2014.

Choice A is incorrect. Since 2.74 is a constant, not a multiple of x, it cannot represent a rate of change in price. Choice B
is incorrect. The difference in the average price from September 1, 2014, to December 1, 2014, is F(3) – F(0) = 2.74 –
0.19(3 – 3) – (2.74 – 0.19(0 – 3)) = 2.74 – (2.74 + 0.57) = –0.57, which is not 2.74. Choice C is incorrect. The average
price per gallon on September 1, 2014, is F(0) = 2.74 – 0.19(0 – 3) = 2.74 + 0.57 = 3.31, which is not 2.74.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID b9835972
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear equations in

two variables

ID: b9835972

In the xy-plane, line 𝓁 passes through the point and is parallel to the line represented by the equation .
If line 𝓁 also passes through the point , what is the value of ?

ID: b9835972 Answer

Correct Answer: 24

Rationale
The correct answer is 24. A line in the xy-plane can be defined by the equation 𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 + 𝑏, where 𝑚 is the slope of the
line and 𝑏 is the y-coordinate of the y-intercept of the line. It's given that line 𝑙 passes through the point 0, 0. Therefore, the
y-coordinate of the y-intercept of line 𝑙 is 0. It's given that line 𝑙 is parallel to the line represented by the equation
𝑦 = 8𝑥 + 2. Since parallel lines have the same slope, it follows that the slope of line 𝑙 is 8. Therefore, line 𝑙 can be defined
by an equation in the form 𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 + 𝑏, where 𝑚 = 8 and 𝑏 = 0. Substituting 8 for 𝑚 and 0 for 𝑏 in 𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 + 𝑏 yields the
equation 𝑦 = 8𝑥 + 0, or 𝑦 = 8𝑥 . If line 𝑙 passes through the point 3, 𝑑, then when 𝑥 = 3, 𝑦 = 𝑑 for the equation 𝑦 = 8𝑥.
Substituting 3 for 𝑥 and 𝑑 for 𝑦 in the equation 𝑦 = 8𝑥 yields 𝑑 = 83, or 𝑑 = 24.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID e1248a5c
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Systems of two linear

equations in two
variables

ID: e1248a5c

In the system of equations below, a and c are constants.

If the system of equations has an infinite number of solutions , what is the
value of a ?

A.

B. 0

C.

D.

ID: e1248a5c Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. A system of two linear equations has infinitely many solutions if one equation is equivalent to the
other. This means that when the two equations are written in the same form, each coefficient or constant in one equation
is equal to the corresponding coefficient or constant in the other equation multiplied by the same number. The equations
in the given system of equations are written in the same form, with x and y on the left-hand side and a constant on the
right-hand side of the equation. The coefficient of y in the second equation is equal to the coefficient of y in the first
equation multiplied by 3. Therefore, a, the coefficient of x in the second equation, must be equal to 3 times the coefficient

of x in the first equation: , or .

Choices A, B, and C are incorrect. When , , or , the given system of equations has one solution.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 05bb1af9
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear equations in

two variables

ID: 05bb1af9

The graph of is shown. Which equation defines function ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 05bb1af9 Answer

Correct Answer: A
Rationale
Choice A is correct. An equation for the graph shown can be written in slope-intercept form 𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 + 𝑏, where 𝑚 is the
slope of the graph and its y-intercept is 0, 𝑏. Since the y-intercept of the graph shown is 0, 2, the value of 𝑏 is 2. Since the
1-2 1 1
graph also passes through the point 4, 1, the slope can be calculated as 4-0
, or - 4 . Therefore, the value of 𝑚 is - 4 .
1 1
Substituting - 4 for 𝑚 and 2 for 𝑏 in the equation 𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 + 𝑏 yields 𝑦 = - 4 𝑥 + 2. It’s given that an equation for the graph
1 1
shown is 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥 + 14. Substituting 𝑓𝑥 + 14 for 𝑦 in the equation 𝑦 = - 𝑥 + 2 yields 𝑓𝑥 + 14 = - 𝑥 + 2. Subtracting 14
4 4
1
from both sides of this equation yields 𝑓𝑥 = - 4 𝑥 - 12.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice D is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID ae2287e2
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear equations in

one variable

ID: ae2287e2

A certain product costs a company $65 to make. The product is sold by a

salesperson who earns a commission that is equal to 20% of the sales price of
the product. The profit the company makes for each unit is equal to the sales
price minus the combined cost of making the product and the commission. If
the sales price of the product is $100, which of the following equations gives the
number of units, u, of the product the company sold to make a profit of $6,840 ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: ae2287e2 Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is correct. The sales price of one unit of the product is given as $100. Because the salesperson is awarded a
commission equal to 20% of the sales price, the expression 100(1 – 0.2) gives the sales price of one unit after the
commission is deducted. It is also given that the profit is equal to the sales price minus the combined cost of making the
product, or $65, and the commission: 100(1 – 0.2) – 65. Multiplying this expression by u gives the profit of u units: (100(1
– 0.2) – 65)u. Finally, it is given that the profit for u units is $6,840; therefore (100(1 – 0.2) – 65)u = $6,840.

Choice B is incorrect. In this equation, cost is subtracted before commission and the equation gives the commission, not
what the company retains after commission. Choice C is incorrect because the number of units is multiplied only by the
cost but not by the sale price. Choice D is incorrect because the value 0.2 shows the commission, not what the company
retains after commission.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 1362ccde
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Systems of two linear

equations in two
variables

ID: 1362ccde

The solution to the given system of equations is . What is the value of ?

ID: 1362ccde Answer

Correct Answer: 35

Rationale
The correct answer is 35. The first equation in the given system of equations defines 𝑦 as 4𝑥 + 1. Substituting 4𝑥 + 1 for
𝑦 in the second equation in the given system of equations yields 44𝑥 + 1 = 15𝑥 - 8. Applying the distributive property on
the left-hand side of this equation yields 16𝑥 + 4 = 15𝑥 - 8. Subtracting 15𝑥 from each side of this equation yields
𝑥 + 4 = - 8. Subtracting 4 from each side of this equation yields 𝑥 = - 12. Substituting -12 for 𝑥 in the first equation of
the given system of equations yields 𝑦 = 4-12 + 1, or 𝑦 = - 47. Substituting -12 for 𝑥 and -47 for 𝑦 into the expression
𝑥 - 𝑦 yields -12 - -47, or 35.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID cc7ffe02
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear equations in

two variables

ID: cc7ffe02

Keenan made cups of vegetable broth. Keenan then filled small jars and large jars with all the vegetable broth he
made. The equation represents this situation. Which is the best interpretation of in this context?

A. The number of large jars Keenan filled

B. The number of small jars Keenan filled

C. The total number of cups of vegetable broth in the large jars

D. The total number of cups of vegetable broth in the small jars

ID: cc7ffe02 Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is correct. It’s given that the equation 3𝑥 + 5𝑦 = 32 represents the situation where Keenan filled 𝑥 small jars and
𝑦 large jars with all the vegetable broth he made, which was 32 cups. Therefore, 3𝑥 represents the total number of cups
of vegetable broth in the small jars and 5𝑦 represents the total number of cups of vegetable broth in the large jars.

Choice A is incorrect. The number of large jars Keenan filled is represented by 𝑦, not 5𝑦.

Choice B is incorrect. The number of small jars Keenan filled is represented by 𝑥, not 5𝑦.

Choice D is incorrect. The total number of cups of vegetable broth in the small jars is represented by 3𝑥, not 5𝑦.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 52cb8ea4
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Systems of two linear

equations in two
variables

ID: 52cb8ea4

If is the solution to the system of equations above,

what is the value of ?

A.

B.

C. 5

D. 13

ID: 52cb8ea4 Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is correct. Subtracting the second equation, , from the first equation, , results in
, or . Combining like terms on the left-hand side of this equation
yields .

Choice A is incorrect and may result from miscalculating as . Choice C is incorrect and may result from
miscalculating as 5. Choice D is incorrect and may result from adding 9 to 4 instead of subtracting 9 from 4.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 7866a908
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Systems of two linear

equations in two
variables

ID: 7866a908

A sample of a certain alloy has a total mass of grams and is silicon by mass. The sample was created by
combining two pieces of different alloys. The first piece was silicon by mass and the second piece was
silicon by mass. What was the mass, in grams, of the silicon in the second piece?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 7866a908 Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is correct. Let 𝑥 represent the total mass, in grams, of the first piece, and let 𝑦 represent the total mass, in
grams, of the second piece. It's given that the sample has a total mass of 50.0 grams. Therefore, the equation
𝑥 + 𝑦 = 50.0 represents this situation. It's also given that the sample is 50.0% silicon by mass. Therefore, the total mass
of the silicon in the sample is 0.50050.0, or 25.0, grams. It's also given that the first piece was 30.0% silicon by mass and
the second piece was 80.0% silicon by mass. Therefore, the masses, in grams, of the silicon in the first and second
pieces can be represented by the expressions 0.300𝑥 and 0.800𝑦, respectively. Since the sample was created by
combining the first and second pieces, and the total mass of the silicon in the sample is 25.0 grams, the equation
0.300𝑥 + 0.800𝑦 = 25.0 represents this situation. Subtracting 𝑦 from both sides of the equation 𝑥 + 𝑦 = 50.0 yields
𝑥 = 50.0 - 𝑦. Substituting 50.0 - 𝑦 for 𝑥 in the equation 0.300𝑥 + 0.800𝑦 = 25.0 yields 0.30050.0 - 𝑦 + 0.800𝑦 = 25.0.
Distributing 0.300 on the left-hand side of this equation yields 15.0 - 0.300𝑦 + 0.800𝑦 = 25.0. Combining like terms on the
left-hand side of this equation yields 15.0 + 0.500𝑦 = 25.0. Subtracting 15.0 from both sides of this equation yields
0.500𝑦 = 10.0. Dividing both sides of this equation by 0.500 yields 𝑦 = 20.0. Substituting 20.0 for 𝑦 in the expression
representing the mass, in grams, of the silicon in the second piece, 0.800𝑦, yields 0.80020.0, or 16.0. Therefore, the mass,
in grams, of the silicon in the second piece is 16.0.

Choice A is incorrect. This is the mass, in grams, of the silicon in the first piece, not the second piece.

Choice C is incorrect. This is the total mass, in grams, of the second piece, not the mass, in grams, of the silicon in the
second piece.

Choice D is incorrect. This is the total mass, in grams, of the first piece, not the mass, in grams, of the silicon in the
second piece.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 0b46bad5
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear equations in

two variables

ID: 0b46bad5

In the equation above, a and b are constants and . Which of the

following could represent the graph of the equation in the xy-plane?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 0b46bad5 Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is correct. The given equation can be rewritten in slope-intercept form, , where m
represents the slope of the line represented by the equation, and k represents the y-coordinate of the y-intercept of the
line. Subtracting ax from both sides of the equation yields , and dividing both sides of this equation by b

yields , or . With the equation now in slope-intercept form, it shows that , which
means the y-coordinate of the y-intercept is 1. It’s given that a and b are both greater than 0 (positive) and that .

Since , the slope of the line must be a value between and 0. Choice C is the only graph of a line that has a
y-value of the y-intercept that is 1 and a slope that is between and 0.

Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because the slopes of the lines in these graphs aren’t between and 0.
Question Difficulty: Hard
Question ID c362c210
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear equations in

two variables

ID: c362c210

The points plotted in the coordinate plane above represent the possible numbers
of wallflowers and cornflowers that someone can buy at the Garden Store in
order to spend exactly $24.00 total on the two types of flowers. The price of
each wallflower is the same and the price of each cornflower is the same. What
is the price, in dollars, of 1 cornflower?

ID: c362c210 Answer

Rationale
The correct answer is 1.5. The point corresponds to the situation where 16 cornflowers and 0 wallflowers are
purchased. Since the total spent on the two types of flowers is $24.00, it follows that the price of 16 cornflowers is
$24.00, and the price of one cornflower is $1.50. Note that 1.5 and 3/2 are examples of ways to enter a correct answer.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 7d5d1b32
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear equations in

one variable

ID: 7d5d1b32

In the given equation, and are constants and . The equation has no solution. What is the value of ?

ID: 7d5d1b32 Answer

Correct Answer: -.9333, -14/15

Rationale
14
The correct answer is - 15 . A linear equation in the form 𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏 = 𝑐𝑥 + 𝑑 has no solution only when the coefficients of 𝑥 on
each side of the equation are equal and the constant terms are not equal. Dividing both sides of the given equation by 2
28 36 14 18
yields 𝑘𝑥 - 𝑛 = - 30 𝑥 - 38 , or 𝑘𝑥 - 𝑛 = - 15 𝑥 - 19 . Since it’s given that the equation has no solution, the coefficient of 𝑥 on
both sides of this equation must be equal, and the constant terms on both sides of this equation must not be equal.
18 14
Since < 1, and it's given that 𝑛 > 1, the second condition is true. Thus, 𝑘 must be equal to - 15 . Note that -14/15, -.9333,
19
and -0.933 are examples of ways to enter a correct answer.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID ee7b1de1
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear inequalities in

one or two variables

ID: ee7b1de1

A small business owner budgets to purchase candles. The owner must purchase a minimum of candles to
maintain the discounted pricing. If the owner pays per candle to purchase small candles and per candle to
purchase large candles, what is the maximum number of large candles the owner can purchase to stay within the budget
and maintain the discounted pricing?

ID: ee7b1de1 Answer

Correct Answer: 182

Rationale
The correct answer is 182. Let 𝑠 represent the number of small candles the owner can purchase, and let 𝑙 represent the
number of large candles the owner can purchase. It’s given that the owner pays $ 4.90 per candle to purchase small
candles and $ 11.60 per candle to purchase large candles. Therefore, the owner pays 4.90𝑠 dollars for 𝑠 small candles
and 11.60𝑙 dollars for 𝑙 large candles, which means the owner pays a total of 4.90𝑠 + 11.60𝑙 dollars to purchase candles.
It’s given that the owner budgets $ 2,200 to purchase candles. Therefore, 4.90𝑠 + 11.60𝑙 ≤ 2,200. It’s also given that the
owner must purchase a minimum of 200 candles. Therefore, 𝑠 + 𝑙 ≥ 200. The inequalities 4.90𝑠 + 11.60𝑙 ≤ 2,200 and
𝑠 + 𝑙 ≥ 200 can be combined into one compound inequality by rewriting the second inequality so that its left-hand side is
equivalent to the left-hand side of the first inequality. Subtracting 𝑙 from both sides of the inequality 𝑠 + 𝑙 ≥ 200 yields
𝑠 ≥ 200 - 𝑙. Multiplying both sides of this inequality by 4.90 yields 4.90𝑠 ≥ 4.90200 - 𝑙, or 4.90𝑠 ≥ 980 - 4.90𝑙. Adding 11.60𝑙
to both sides of this inequality yields 4.90𝑠 + 11.60𝑙 ≥ 980 - 4 . 90𝑙 + 11 . 60𝑙, or 4.90𝑠 + 11.60𝑙 ≥ 980 + 6.70𝑙. This
inequality can be combined with the inequality 4.90𝑠 + 11.60𝑙 ≤ 2,200, which yields the compound inequality
980 + 6.70𝑙 ≤ 4.90𝑠 + 11.60𝑙 ≤ 2,200. It follows that 980 + 6.70𝑙 ≤ 2,200. Subtracting 980 from both sides of this
inequality yields 6.70𝑙 ≤ 2,200. Dividing both sides of this inequality by 6.70 yields approximately 𝑙 ≤ 182.09. Since the
number of large candles the owner purchases must be a whole number, the maximum number of large candles the
owner can purchase is the largest whole number less than 182.09, which is 182.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 94b48cbf
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear equations in

two variables

ID: 94b48cbf

The graph of in the -plane has an -intercept at and a -intercept at , where and are
constants. What is the value of ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 94b48cbf Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. The x-coordinate 𝑎 of the x-intercept 𝑎, 0 can be found by substituting 0 for 𝑦 in the given equation,
31
which gives 7𝑥 + 20 = - 31, or 7𝑥 = - 31. Dividing both sides of this equation by 7 yields 𝑥 = - . Therefore, the value of
7
31
𝑎 is - 7 . The y-coordinate 𝑏 of the y-intercept 0, 𝑏 can be found by substituting 0 for 𝑥 in the given equation, which gives
31 31
70 + 2𝑦 = - 31, or 2𝑦 = - 31. Dividing both sides of this equation by 2 yields 𝑦 = - 2
. Therefore, the value of 𝑏 is - . It
2
31
𝑏 - 31 7 7
2
follows that the value of 𝑎
is 31 , which is equivalent to 2 31
, or 2
.
-
7

Choice A is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 1035faea
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear inequalities in

one or two variables

ID: 1035faea

A psychologist set up an experiment to study the tendency of a person to select

the first item when presented with a series of items. In the experiment,
300 people were presented with a set of five pictures arranged in random order.
Each person was asked to choose the most appealing picture. Of the first
150 participants, 36 chose the first picture in the set. Among the remaining
150 participants, p people chose the first picture in the set. If more than 20% of
all participants chose the first picture in the set, which of the following
inequalities best describes the possible values of p ?

A. , where

B. , where

C. , where

D. , where

ID: 1035faea Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. Of the first 150 participants, 36 chose the first picture in the set, and of the 150 remaining
participants, p chose the first picture in the set. Hence, the proportion of the participants who chose the first picture in

the set is . Since more than 20% of all the participants chose the first picture, it follows that .

This inequality can be rewritten as . Since p is a number of people among the remaining 150
participants, .

Choices A, B, and C are incorrect and may be the result of some incorrect interpretations of the given information or of
computational errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 45a534d0
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Systems of two linear

equations in two
variables

ID: 45a534d0

In the given system of equations, is a constant. If the system has no solution, what is the value of ?

ID: 45a534d0 Answer

Correct Answer: -34

Rationale
The correct answer is -34. A system of two linear equations in two variables, 𝑥 and 𝑦, has no solution if the lines
represented by the equations in the xy-plane are distinct and parallel. Two lines represented by equations in standard
form 𝐴𝑥 + 𝐵𝑦 = 𝐶, where 𝐴, 𝐵, and 𝐶 are constants, are parallel if the coefficients for 𝑥 and 𝑦 in one equation are
proportional to the corresponding coefficients in the other equation. The first equation in the given system can be written
in standard form by subtracting 30𝑦 from both sides of the equation to yield 48𝑥 - 102𝑦 = 24. The second equation in the
1
given system can be written in standard form by adding 16𝑥 to both sides of the equation to yield 16𝑥 + 𝑟𝑦 = 6 . The
1
coefficient of 𝑥 in this second equation, 16, is 3
times the coefficient of 𝑥 in the first equation, 48. For the lines to be
1
parallel the coefficient of 𝑦 in the second equation, 𝑟, must also be times the coefficient of 𝑦 in the first equation, -102.
3
1
Thus, 𝑟 = ( - 102 ) , or 𝑟 = - 34. Therefore, if the given system has no solution, the value of 𝑟 is -34.
3

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 50f4cb9c
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear functions

ID: 50f4cb9c

For the linear function , the table shows three values of and their corresponding values of . Function is defined
by , where and are constants. What is the value of ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 50f4cb9c Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. The table gives that 𝑓 ( 𝑥 ) = 0 when 𝑥 = 2. Substituting 0 for 𝑓𝑥 and 2 for 𝑥 into the equation
𝑓 ( 𝑥 ) = 𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏 yields 0 = 2𝑎 + 𝑏. Subtracting 2𝑎 from both sides of this equation yields 𝑏 = - 2𝑎. The table gives that
𝑓 ( 𝑥 ) = - 64 when 𝑥 = 1. Substituting -2𝑎 for 𝑏, -64 for 𝑓𝑥, and 1 for 𝑥 into the equation 𝑓 ( 𝑥 ) = 𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏 yields
-64 = 𝑎1 + -2𝑎. Combining like terms yields -64 = - 𝑎, or 𝑎 = 64. Since 𝑏 = - 2𝑎, substituting 64 for 𝑎 into this equation
gives 𝑏 = -264, which yields 𝑏 = - 128. Thus, the value of 𝑎 - 𝑏 can be written as 64 - ( - 128 ) , which is 192.

Choice A is incorrect. This is the value of 𝑎 + 𝑏, not 𝑎 - 𝑏. Choice B is incorrect. This is the value of 𝑎 - 2, not 𝑎 - 𝑏.

Choice C is incorrect. This is the value of 2𝑎, not 𝑎 - 𝑏.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 16889ef3
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear functions

ID: 16889ef3

Oil and gas production in a certain area dropped from 4 million barrels in 2000 to
1.9 million barrels in 2013. Assuming that the oil and gas production decreased
at a constant rate, which of the following linear functions f best models the
production, in millions of barrels, t years after the year 2000?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 16889ef3 Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is correct. It is assumed that the oil and gas production decreased at a constant rate. Therefore, the function f
that best models the production t years after the year 2000 can be written as a linear function, , where m is
the rate of change of the oil and gas production and b is the oil and gas production, in millions of barrels, in the year
2000. Since there were 4 million barrels of oil and gas produced in 2000, . The rate of change, m, can be calculated

as , which is equivalent to , the rate of change in choice C.

Choices A and B are incorrect because each of these functions has a positive rate of change. Since the oil and gas
production decreased over time, the rate of change must be negative. Choice D is incorrect. This model may result from
misinterpreting 1.9 million barrels as the amount by which the production decreased.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID d7bf55e1
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Systems of two linear

equations in two
variables

ID: d7bf55e1

A movie theater sells two types of tickets, adult tickets for $12 and child tickets
for $8. If the theater sold 30 tickets for a total of $300, how much, in dollars, was
spent on adult tickets? (Disregard the $ sign when gridding your answer.)

ID: d7bf55e1 Answer

Rationale
The correct answer is 180. Let a be the number of adult tickets sold and c be the number of child tickets sold. Since the
theater sold a total of 30 tickets, a + c = 30. The price per adult ticket is $12, and the price per child ticket is $8. Since the
theater received a total of $300 for the 30 tickets sold, it follows that 12a + 8c = 300. To eliminate c, the first equation can
be multiplied by 8 and then subtracted from the second equation:

Because the question asks for the amount spent on adult tickets, which is 12a dollars, the resulting equation can be
multiplied by 3 to give 3(4a) = 3(60) = 180. Therefore, $180 was spent on adult tickets.

Alternate approach: If all the 30 tickets sold were child tickets, their total price would be 30($8) = $240. Since the actual
total price of the 30 tickets was $300, the extra $60 indicates that a certain number of adult tickets, a, were sold. Since
the price of each adult ticket is $4 more than each child ticket, 4a = 60, and it follows that 12a = 180.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID adb0c96c
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Systems of two linear

equations in two
variables

ID: adb0c96c

The solution to the given system of equations is . What is the value of ?

ID: adb0c96c Answer

Correct Answer: 80

Rationale
The correct answer is 80. Subtracting the second equation in the given system from the first equation yields
24𝑥 + 𝑦 - 6𝑥 + 𝑦 = 48 - 72, which is equivalent to 24𝑥 - 6𝑥 + 𝑦 - 𝑦 = - 24, or 18𝑥 = - 24. Dividing each side of this equation
by 3 yields 6𝑥 = - 8. Substituting -8 for 6𝑥 in the second equation yields -8 + 𝑦 = 72. Adding 8 to both sides of this
equation yields 𝑦 = 80.

Alternate approach: Multiplying each side of the second equation in the given system by 4 yields 24𝑥 + 4𝑦 = 288.
Subtracting the first equation in the given system from this equation yields 24𝑥 + 4𝑦 - 24𝑥 + 𝑦 = 288 - 48, which is
equivalent to 24𝑥 - 24𝑥 + 4𝑦 - 𝑦 = 240, or 3𝑦 = 240. Dividing each side of this equation by 3 yields 𝑦 = 80.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 771bd0ca
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear equations in

one variable

ID: 771bd0ca

What value of is the solution to the given equation?

ID: 771bd0ca Answer

Correct Answer: -22

Rationale
The correct answer is -22. The given equation can be rewritten as -2𝑡 + 3 = 38. Dividing both sides of this equation by -2
yields 𝑡 + 3 = - 19. Subtracting 3 from both sides of this equation yields 𝑡 = - 22. Therefore, -22 is the value of 𝑡 that is
the solution to the given equation.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 69f609b2
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear equations in

one variable

ID: 69f609b2

How many solutions does the equation have?

A. Exactly one

B. Exactly two

C. Infinitely many

D. Zero

ID: 69f609b2 Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is correct. Distributing 12 on the left-hand side and -3 on the right-hand side of the given equation yields
12𝑥 - 36 = - 3𝑥 - 36. Adding 3𝑥 to each side of this equation yields 15𝑥 - 36 = - 36. Adding 36 to each side of this
equation yields 15𝑥 = 0. Dividing each side of this equation by 15 yields 𝑥 = 0. This means that 0 is the only solution to
the given equation. Therefore, the given equation has exactly one solution.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice D is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 5bf5136d
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear inequalities in

one or two variables

ID: 5bf5136d

The triangle inequality theorem states that the sum of any two sides of a triangle must be greater than the length of the
third side. If a triangle has side lengths of and , which inequality represents the possible lengths, , of the third side
of the triangle?

A.

B.

C.

D. or

ID: 5bf5136d Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is correct. It’s given that a triangle has side lengths of 6 and 12, and 𝑥 represents the length of the third side of
the triangle. It’s also given that the triangle inequality theorem states that the sum of any two sides of a triangle must be
greater than the length of the third side. Therefore, the inequalities 6 + 𝑥 > 12, 6 + 12 > 𝑥, and 12 + 𝑥 > 6 represent all
possible values of 𝑥. Subtracting 6 from both sides of the inequality 6 + 𝑥 > 12 yields 𝑥 > 12 - 6, or 𝑥 > 6. Adding 6 and
12 in the inequality 6 + 12 > 𝑥 yields 18 > 𝑥, or 𝑥 < 18. Subtracting 12 from both sides of the inequality 12 + 𝑥 > 6 yields
𝑥 > 6 - 12, or 𝑥 > - 6. Since all x-values that satisfy the inequality 𝑥 > 6 also satisfy the inequality 𝑥 > - 6, it follows that
the inequalities 𝑥 > 6 and 𝑥 < 18 represent the possible values of 𝑥. Therefore, the inequality 6 < 𝑥 < 18 represents the
possible lengths, 𝑥, of the third side of the triangle.

Choice A is incorrect. This inequality gives the upper bound for 𝑥 but does not include its lower bound.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice D is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID a309803e
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear functions

ID: a309803e

One gallon of paint will cover square feet of a surface. A room has a total wall area of square feet. Which equation
represents the total amount of paint , in gallons, needed to paint the walls of the room twice?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: a309803e Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is correct. It's given that 𝑤 represents the total wall area, in square feet. Since the walls of the room will be
painted twice, the amount of paint, in gallons, needs to cover 2𝑤 square feet. It’s also given that one gallon of paint will
cover 220 square feet. Dividing the total area, in square feet, of the surface to be painted by the number of square feet
2𝑤
covered by one gallon of paint gives the number of gallons of paint that will be needed. Dividing 2𝑤 by 220 yields 220
, or
𝑤
110
. Therefore, the equation that represents the total amount of paint 𝑃, in gallons, needed to paint the walls of the room
𝑤
twice is 𝑃 = .
110

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from finding the amount of paint needed to paint the walls once rather than twice.

Choice D is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 90095507
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear equations in

one variable

ID: 90095507

Townsend Realty Group Investments

Property Purchase price Monthly rental
address (dollars) price (dollars)

Clearwater
128,000 950
Lane

Driftwood
176,000 1,310
Drive

Edgemont
70,000 515
Street

Glenview
140,000 1,040
Street

Hamilton
450,000 3,365
Circle

The Townsend Realty Group invested in the five different properties listed in the
table above. The table shows the amount, in dollars, the company paid for each
property and the corresponding monthly rental price, in dollars, the company
charges for the property at each of the five locations. Townsend Realty
purchased the Glenview Street property and received a 40% discount off the
original price along with an additional 20% off the discounted price for
purchasing the property in cash. Which of the following best approximates the
original price, in dollars, of the Glenview Street property?

A. $350,000

B. $291,700

C. $233,300

D. $175,000

ID: 90095507 Answer

Correct Answer: B
Rationale
Choice B is correct. Let x be the original price, in dollars, of the Glenview Street property. After the 40% discount, the price
of the property became dollars, and after the additional 20% off the discounted price, the price of the property

became . Thus, in terms of the original price of the property, x, the purchase price of the property is . It

follows that . Solving this equation for x gives . Therefore, of the given choices,
$291,700 best approximates the original price of the Glenview Street property.

Choice A is incorrect because it is the result of dividing the purchase price of the property by 0.4, as though the purchase
price were 40% of the original price. Choice C is incorrect because it is the closest to dividing the purchase price of the
property by 0.6, as though the purchase price were 60% of the original price. Choice D is incorrect because it is the result
of dividing the purchase price of the property by 0.8, as though the purchase price were 80% of the original price.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 98d3393a
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear equations in

two variables

ID: 98d3393a

Line in the xy-plane is perpendicular to the line with equation

. What is the slope of line ?

A. 0

B.

C.

D. The slope of line is undefined.

ID: 98d3393a Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is correct. It is given that line is perpendicular to a line whose equation is x = 2. A line whose equation is a
constant value of x is vertical, so must therefore be horizontal. Horizontal lines have a slope of 0, so has a slope of 0.

Choice B is incorrect. A line with slope is perpendicular to a line with slope 2. However, the line with equation x = 2
is vertical and has undefined slope (not slope of 2). Choice C is incorrect. A line with slope –2 is perpendicular to a line

with slope . However, the line with equation x = 2 has undefined slope (not slope of ). Choice D is incorrect; this is
the slope of the line x = 2 itself, not the slope of a line perpendicular to it.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 36fd6752
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Systems of two linear

equations in two
variables

ID: 36fd6752

In the given system of equations, is a constant. If the system has no solution, what is the value of ?

ID: 36fd6752 Answer

Correct Answer: 10

Rationale
The correct answer is 10. Solving by substitution, the given system of equations, where 𝑝 is a constant, can be written so
that the left-hand side of each equation is equal to 7𝑟. Subtracting 6 from each side of the first equation in the given
system, 6 + 7𝑟 = 𝑝𝑤, yields 7𝑟 = 𝑝𝑤 - 6. Adding 5𝑤 to each side of the second equation in the given system,
7𝑟 - 5𝑤 = 5𝑤 + 11, yields 7𝑟 = 10𝑤 + 11. Since the left-hand side of each equation is equal to 7𝑟, setting the the right-
hand side of the equations equal to each other yields 𝑝𝑤 - 6 = 10𝑤 + 11. A linear equation in one variable, 𝑤, has no
solution if and only if the equation is false; that is, when there's no value of 𝑤 that produces a true statement. For the
equation 𝑝𝑤 - 6 = 10𝑤 + 11, there's no value of 𝑤 that produces a true statement when 𝑝𝑤 = 10𝑤. Therefore, for the
equation 𝑝𝑤 - 6 = 10𝑤 + 11, there's no value of 𝑤 that produces a true statement when the value of 𝑝 is 10. It follows that
in the given system of equations, the system has no solution when the value of 𝑝 is 10.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 6989c80a
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear functions

ID: 6989c80a

The function gives the temperature, in degrees Fahrenheit, that corresponds to a temperature of kelvins. If a
temperature increased by kelvins, by how much did the temperature increase, in degrees Fahrenheit?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 6989c80a Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
9
Choice A is correct. It’s given that the function 𝐹𝑥 = 5 𝑥 - 273.15 + 32 gives the temperature, in degrees Fahrenheit, that
corresponds to a temperature of 𝑥 kelvins. A temperature that increased by 2.10 kelvins means that the value of 𝑥
9
increased by 2.10 kelvins. It follows that an increase in 𝑥 by 2.10 increases 𝐹 ( 𝑥 ) by 2.10, or 3.78. Therefore, if a
5
temperature increased by 2.10 kelvins, the temperature increased by 3.78 degrees Fahrenheit.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice D is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 0cb57740
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear equations in

one variable

ID: 0cb57740

Each side of a -sided polygon has one of three lengths. The number of sides with length is
times the number of sides with length . There are sides with length . Which equation must be true for the
value of ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 0cb57740 Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is correct. It’s given that each side of a 30-sided polygon has one of three lengths. It's also given that the
number of sides with length 8 centimeters cm is 5 times the number of sides 𝑛 with length 3 cm. Therefore, there are
5 × 𝑛, or 5𝑛, sides with length 8 cm. It’s also given that there are 6 sides with length 4 cm. Therefore, the number of
3 cm, 4 cm, and 8 cm sides are 𝑛, 6, and 5𝑛, respectively. Since there are a total of 30 sides, the equation
𝑛 + 6 + 5𝑛 = 30 represents this situation. Combining like terms on the left-hand side of this equation yields 6𝑛 + 6 = 30.
Therefore, the equation that must be true for the value of 𝑛 is 6𝑛 + 6 = 30.

Choice A is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice D is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID e8f9e117
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear inequalities in

one or two variables

ID: e8f9e117

The formula above is Ohm’s law for an electric circuit with current I, in amperes,
potential difference V, in volts, and resistance R, in ohms. A circuit has a
resistance of 500 ohms, and its potential difference will be generated by n six-
volt batteries that produce a total potential difference of volts. If the circuit is
to have a current of no more than 0.25 ampere, what is the greatest number, n, of
six-volt batteries that can be used?

ID: e8f9e117 Answer

Rationale
The correct answer is 20. For the given circuit, the resistance R is 500 ohms, and the total potential difference V
generated by n batteries is volts. It’s also given that the circuit is to have a current of no more than 0.25 ampere,

which can be expressed as . Since Ohm’s law says that , the given values for V and R can be substituted

for I in this inequality, which yields . Multiplying both sides of this inequality by 500 yields , and
dividing both sides of this inequality by 6 yields . Since the number of batteries must be a whole number less
than 20.833, the greatest number of batteries that can be used in this circuit is 20.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID d8539e09
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear inequalities in

one or two variables

ID: d8539e09

For which of the following tables are all the values of and their corresponding values of solutions to the given
inequality?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: d8539e09 Answer

Correct Answer: C
Rationale
Choice C is correct. All the tables in the choices have the same three values of 𝑥, so each of the three values of 𝑥 can be
substituted in the given inequality to compare the corresponding values of 𝑦 in each of the tables. Substituting 3 for 𝑥 in
the given inequality yields 𝑦 < 63 + 2, or 𝑦 < 20. Therefore, when 𝑥 = 3, the corresponding value of 𝑦 is less than 20.
Substituting 5 for 𝑥 in the given inequality yields 𝑦 < 65 + 2, or 𝑦 < 32. Therefore, when 𝑥 = 5, the corresponding value of
𝑦 is less than 32. Substituting 7 for 𝑥 in the given inequality yields 𝑦 < 67 + 2, or 𝑦 < 44. Therefore, when 𝑥 = 7, the
corresponding value of 𝑦 is less than 44. For the table in choice C, when 𝑥 = 3, the corresponding value of 𝑦 is 16, which
is less than 20; when 𝑥 = 5, the corresponding value of 𝑦 is 28, which is less than 32; when 𝑥 = 7, the corresponding
value of 𝑦 is 40, which is less than 44. Therefore, the table in choice C gives values of 𝑥 and their corresponding values of
𝑦 that are all solutions to the given inequality.

Choice A is incorrect. In the table for choice A, when 𝑥 = 3, the corresponding value of 𝑦 is 20, which is not less than 20;
when 𝑥 = 5, the corresponding value of 𝑦 is 32, which is not less than 32; when 𝑥 = 7, the corresponding value of 𝑦 is 44,
which is not less than 44.

Choice B is incorrect. In the table for choice B, when 𝑥 = 5, the corresponding value of 𝑦 is 36, which is not less than 32.

Choice D is incorrect. In the table for choice D, when 𝑥 = 3, the corresponding value of 𝑦 is 24, which is not less than 20;
when 𝑥 = 5, the corresponding value of 𝑦 is 36, which is not less than 32; when 𝑥 = 7, the corresponding value of 𝑦 is 48,
which is not less than 44.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 48fb34c8
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear inequalities in

one or two variables

ID: 48fb34c8

For which of the following tables are all the values of and their corresponding values of solutions to the given
inequality?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 48fb34c8 Answer

Correct Answer: D
Rationale
Choice D is correct. All the tables in the choices have the same three values of 𝑥, so each of the three values of 𝑥 can be
substituted in the given inequality to compare the corresponding values of 𝑦 in each of the tables. Substituting 3 for 𝑥 in
the given inequality yields 𝑦 > 133 - 18, or 𝑦 > 21. Therefore, when 𝑥 = 3, the corresponding value of 𝑦 is greater than 21.
Substituting 5 for 𝑥 in the given inequality yields 𝑦 > 135 - 18, or 𝑦 > 47. Therefore, when 𝑥 = 5, the corresponding value
of 𝑦 is greater than 47. Substituting 8 for 𝑥 in the given inequality yields 𝑦 > 138 - 18, or 𝑦 > 86. Therefore, when 𝑥 = 8,
the corresponding value of 𝑦 is greater than 86. For the table in choice D, when 𝑥 = 3, the corresponding value of 𝑦 is 26,
which is greater than 21; when 𝑥 = 5, the corresponding value of 𝑦 is 52, which is greater than 47; when 𝑥 = 8, the
corresponding value of 𝑦 is 91, which is greater than 86. Therefore, the table in choice D gives values of 𝑥 and their
corresponding values of 𝑦 that are all solutions to the given inequality.

Choice A is incorrect. In the table for choice A, when 𝑥 = 3, the corresponding value of 𝑦 is 21, which is not greater than
21; when 𝑥 = 5, the corresponding value of 𝑦 is 47, which is not greater than 47; when 𝑥 = 8, the corresponding value of 𝑦
is 86, which is not greater than 86.

Choice B is incorrect. In the table for choice B, when 𝑥 = 5, the corresponding value of 𝑦 is 42, which is not greater than
47; when 𝑥 = 8, the corresponding value of 𝑦 is 86, which is not greater than 86.

Choice C is incorrect. In the table for choice C, when 𝑥 = 3, the corresponding value of 𝑦 is 16, which is not greater than
21; when 𝑥 = 5, the corresponding value of 𝑦 is 42, which is not greater than 47; when 𝑥 = 8, the corresponding value of 𝑦
is 81, which is not greater than 86.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID f718c9cf
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Systems of two linear

equations in two
variables

ID: f718c9cf

The solution to the given system of equations is . What is the value of ?

ID: f718c9cf Answer

Correct Answer: 1.8, 9/5

Rationale
9
The correct answer is 5 . Multiplying the first equation in the given system by 2 yields 10𝑥 + 28𝑦 = 90. Subtracting the
second equation in the given system, 10𝑥 + 7𝑦 = 27, from 10𝑥 + 28𝑦 = 90 yields 10𝑥 + 28𝑦 - 10𝑥 + 7𝑦 = 90 - 27, which is
equivalent to 10𝑥 + 28𝑦 - 10𝑥 - 7𝑦 = 63, or 21𝑦 = 63. Dividing both sides of this equation by 21 yields 𝑦 = 3. The value of
𝑥 can be found by substituting 3 for 𝑦 in either of the two given equations. Substituting 3 for 𝑦 in the equation
10𝑥 + 7𝑦 = 27 yields 10𝑥 + 73 = 27, or 10𝑥 + 21 = 27. Subtracting 21 from both sides of this equation yields 10𝑥 = 6.
6 3 3 9
Dividing both sides of this equation by 10 yields 𝑥 = 10
, or 𝑥 = 5 . Therefore, the value of 𝑥𝑦 is 5 3, or 5 . Note that 9/5 and
1.8 are examples of ways to enter a correct answer.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID cc3e9528
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear equations in

two variables

ID: cc3e9528

The graph of is translated down units in the xy-plane. What is the x-coordinate of the x-intercept of the
resulting graph?

ID: cc3e9528 Answer

Correct Answer: 59/9, 6.555, 6.556

Rationale
59
The correct answer is 9
. When the graph of an equation in the form 𝐴𝑥 + 𝐵𝑦 = 𝐶, where 𝐴, 𝐵, and 𝐶 are constants, is
translated down 𝑘 units in the xy-plane, the resulting graph can be represented by the equation 𝐴𝑥 + 𝐵𝑦 + 𝑘 = 𝐶. It’s given
that the graph of 9𝑥 - 10𝑦 = 19 is translated down 4 units in the xy-plane. Therefore, the resulting graph can be
represented by the equation 9𝑥 - 10𝑦 + 4 = 19, or 9𝑥 - 10𝑦 - 40 = 19. Adding 40 to both sides of this equation yields
9𝑥 - 10𝑦 = 59. The x-coordinate of the x-intercept of the graph of an equation in the xy-plane is the value of 𝑥 in the
equation when 𝑦 = 0. Substituting 0 for 𝑦 in the equation 9𝑥 - 10𝑦 = 59 yields 9𝑥 - 100 = 59, or 9𝑥 = 59. Dividing both
59 59
sides of this equation by 9 yields 𝑥 = 9
. Therefore, the x-coordinate of the x-intercept of the resulting graph is 9
. Note
that 59/9, 6.555, and 6.556 are examples of ways to enter a correct answer.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 153ee763
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear equations in

one variable

ID: 153ee763

In the given equation, is a constant. The equation has no solution. What is the value of ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 153ee763 Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is correct. A linear equation in one variable has no solution if and only if the equation is false; that is, when there
is no value of 𝑥 that produces a true statement. It's given that in the equation -3𝑥 + 21𝑝𝑥 = 84, 𝑝 is a constant and the
equation has no solution for 𝑥. Therefore, the value of the constant 𝑝 is one that results in a false equation. Factoring out
the common factor of -3𝑥 on the left-hand side of the given equation yields -3𝑥1 - 7𝑝 = 84. Dividing both sides of this
-28
equation by -3 yields 𝑥1 - 7𝑝 = - 28. Dividing both sides of this equation by 1 - 7𝑝 yields 𝑥 = 1 - 7𝑝
. This equation is false if
and only if 1 - 7𝑝 = 0. Adding 7𝑝 to both sides of 1 - 7𝑝 = 0 yields 1 = 7𝑝. Dividing both sides of this equation by 7 yields
1 -28 1
7
= 𝑝. It follows that the equation 𝑥 = 1 - 7𝑝
is false if and only if 𝑝 = 7 . Therefore, the given equation has no solution if
1
and only if the value of 𝑝 is .
7

Choice A is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice D is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 466b87e3
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Systems of two linear

equations in two
variables

ID: 466b87e3

In the system of equations above, c is a constant. If the system has

no solution, what is the value of c ?

ID: 466b87e3 Answer

Rationale

The correct answer is . A system of two linear equations has no solution when the graphs of the equations have the
same slope and different y-intercepts. Each of the given linear equations is written in the slope-intercept form,
, where m is the slope and b is the y-coordinate of the y-intercept of the graph of the equation. For these two
linear equations, the y-intercepts are and . Thus, if the system of equations has no solution, the slopes of

the graphs of the two linear equations must be the same. The slope of the graph of the first linear equation is .

Therefore, for the system of equations to have no solution, the value of c must be . Note that 1/2 and .5 are examples
of ways to enter a correct answer.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID aee9fd2d
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear equations in

one variable

ID: aee9fd2d

If , the value of is between which of the following pairs of values?

A. and

B. and

C. and

D. and

ID: aee9fd2d Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
𝑥+6 𝑥+6
Choice B is correct. Multiplying both sides of the given equation by 313, or 39, yields 39 3
= 39 13
, or 13𝑥 + 6 = 3𝑥 + 6
. Subtracting 3𝑥 + 6 from both sides of this equation yields 10𝑥 + 6 = 0. Dividing both sides of this equation by 10 yields
𝑥+6 𝑥+6
𝑥 + 6 = 0. Therefore, if 3 = 13 , then the value of 𝑥 + 6 is 0. It follows that of the given choices, the value of 𝑥 + 6 is
between -2 and 2.

Choice A is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice D is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 0366d965
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear equations in

two variables

ID: 0366d965

x y

3 7

k 11

12 n

The table above shows the coordinates of three points on a line in the xy-plane,
where k and n are constants. If the slope of the line is 2, what is the value of
?

ID: 0366d965 Answer

Rationale

The correct answer is 30. The slope of a line can be found by using the slope formula, . It’s given that the slope

of the line is 2; therefore, . According to the table, the points and lie on the line. Substituting the

coordinates of these points into the equation gives . Multiplying both sides of this equation by gives
, or . Solving for k gives . According to the table, the points and also

lie on the line. Substituting the coordinates of these points into gives . Solving for n gives
. Therefore, , or 30.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 963da34c
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear inequalities in

one or two variables

ID: 963da34c

A shipping service restricts the dimensions of the boxes it will ship for a certain
type of service. The restriction states that for boxes shaped like rectangular
prisms, the sum of the perimeter of the base of the box and the height of the box
cannot exceed 130 inches. The perimeter of the base is determined using the
width and length of the box. If a box has a height of 60 inches and its length is
2.5 times the width, which inequality shows the allowable width x, in inches, of
the box?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 963da34c Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is correct. If x is the width, in inches, of the box, then the length of the box is 2.5x inches. It follows that the
perimeter of the base is , or 7x inches. The height of the box is given to be 60 inches. According to the
restriction, the sum of the perimeter of the base and the height of the box should not exceed 130 inches. Algebraically,
this can be represented by , or . Dividing both sides of the inequality by 7 gives . Since x
represents the width of the box, x must also be a positive number. Therefore, the inequality represents all the
allowable values of x that satisfy the given conditions.

Choices B, C, and D are incorrect and may result from calculation errors or misreading the given information.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 184ce5aa
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear equations in

two variables

ID: 184ce5aa

Line is defined by . Line is perpendicular to line in the xy-plane. What is the slope of line ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 184ce5aa Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
1 1
Choice D is correct. It’s given that line ℎ is defined by 5 𝑥 + 7 𝑦 - 70 = 0. This equation can be written in slope-intercept
form 𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 + 𝑏, where 𝑚 is the slope of line ℎ and 𝑏 is the y-coordinate of the y-intercept of line ℎ. Adding 70 to both
1 1 1 1 1 1 1
sides of 5 𝑥 + 7 𝑦 - 70 = 0 yields 5 𝑥 + 7 𝑦 = 70. Subtracting 5 𝑥 from both sides of this equation yields 7 𝑦 = - 5 𝑥 + 70.
7 7
Multiplying both sides of this equation by 7 yields 𝑦 = - 𝑥 + 490. Therefore, the slope of line ℎ is - . It’s given that line 𝑗
5 5
is perpendicular to line ℎ in the xy-plane. Two lines are perpendicular if their slopes are negative reciprocals, meaning that
the slope of the first line is equal to -1 divided by the slope of the second line. Therefore, the slope of line 𝑗 is the negative
7 -1 5 5
reciprocal of the slope of line ℎ. The negative reciprocal of - 5 is 7, or 7 . Therefore, the slope of line 𝑗 is 7 .
-
5

Choice A is incorrect. This is the slope of a line in the xy-plane that is parallel, not perpendicular, to line ℎ.

7
Choice B is incorrect. This is the reciprocal, not the negative reciprocal, of - 5 .

7
Choice C is incorrect. This is the negative, not the negative reciprocal, of - 5 .

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID e2e3942f
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Systems of two linear

equations in two
variables

ID: e2e3942f

In the system of equations above, a is a constant. If the system of equations

has no solution, what is the value of a ?

A.

B. 0

C. 1

D. 2

ID: e2e3942f Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. A system of two linear equations has no solution when the graphs of the equations have the same
slope and different y-coordinates of the y-intercepts. Each of the given equations is written in the slope-intercept form of
a linear equation, , where m is the slope and b is the y-coordinate of the y-intercept of the graph of the
equation. For these two linear equations, the y-coordinates of the y-intercepts are different: and . Thus, if the
system of equations has no solution, the slopes of the two linear equations must be the same. The slope of the first
linear equation is 2. Therefore, for the system of equations to have no solution, the value of a must be 2.

Choices A, B, and C are incorrect and may result from conceptual and computational errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID f03465dc
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Systems of two linear

equations in two
variables

ID: f03465dc

For each real number , which of the following points lies on the graph of each equation in the xy-plane for the given
system?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: f03465dc Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is correct. Dividing both sides of the second equation in the given system by 3 yields 8𝑥 + 7𝑦 = 9, which is the
first equation in the given system. Therefore, the first and second equations represent the same line in the xy-plane. If the
x- and y-coordinates of a point satisfy an equation, the point lies on the graph of the equation in the xy-plane. Choice A is
8𝑟 9 8𝑟 9
a point with x-coordinate 𝑟 and y-coordinate - 7 + 7 . Substituting 𝑟 for 𝑥 and - 7 + 7 for 𝑦 in the equation 8𝑥 + 7𝑦 = 9
8 9
yields 8𝑟 + 7- 7 𝑟 + 7 = 9. Applying the distributive property to the left-hand side of this equation yields 8𝑟 - 8𝑟 + 9 = 9.
8 9
Combining like terms on the left-hand side of this equation yields 9 = 9, so the coordinates of the point 𝑟, - 𝑟 + satisfy
7 7
8 9
both equations in the given system. Therefore, for each real number 𝑟, the point 𝑟, - 7 𝑟 + 7 lies on the graph of each
equation in the xy-plane for the given system.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice D is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID a35c7164
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear equations in

two variables

ID: a35c7164

In the given pair of equations, and are constants. The graph of this pair of equations in the xy-plane is a pair of
perpendicular lines. Which of the following pairs of equations also represents a pair of perpendicular lines?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: a35c7164 Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is correct. Two lines are perpendicular if their slopes are negative reciprocals, meaning that the slope of the first
line is equal to -1 divided by the slope of the second line. Each equation in the given pair of equations can be written in
slope-intercept form, 𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 + 𝑏, where 𝑚 is the slope of the graph of the equation in the xy-plane and 0, 𝑏 is the y-
intercept. For the first equation, 5𝑥 + 7𝑦 = 1, subtracting 5𝑥 from both sides gives 7𝑦 = - 5𝑥 + 1, and dividing both sides
5 1 5
of this equation by 7 gives 𝑦 = - 7 𝑥 + 7 . Therefore, the slope of the graph of this equation is - 7 . For the second equation,
𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏𝑦 = 1, subtracting 𝑎𝑥 from both sides gives 𝑏𝑦 = -𝑎𝑥 + 1, and dividing both sides of this equation by 𝑏 gives
𝑎 1 𝑎
𝑦 = - 𝑥 + . Therefore, the slope of the graph of this equation is - . Since the graph of the given pair of equations is a
𝑏 𝑏 𝑏
𝑎
pair of perpendicular lines, the slope of the graph of the second equation, - 𝑏 , must be the negative reciprocal of the slope
5 5 -1 7 𝑎 7 𝑎 7
of the graph of the first equation, - . The negative reciprocal of - is 5 , or 5 . Therefore, - 𝑏 = 5 , or 𝑏 = - 5 . Similarly,
7 7 -
7
10 1 𝑎 1
rewriting the equations in choice B in slope-intercept form yields 𝑦 = - 𝑥+ and 𝑦 = - 𝑥+ . It follows that the
7 7 2𝑏 2𝑏
10
slope of the graph of the first equation in choice B is -7 and the slope of the graph of the second equation in choice B is
𝑎 𝑎 7 𝑎 1 7 7 7 10
- . Since = - ,- is equal to - - , or . Since is the negative reciprocal of - 7 , the pair of equations in choice B
2𝑏 𝑏 5 2𝑏 2 5 10 10
represents a pair of perpendicular lines.

Choice A is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice D is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 03503d49
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear inequalities in

one or two variables

ID: 03503d49

A business owner plans to purchase the same model of chair for each of the employees. The total budget to spend on
these chairs is , which includes a sales tax. Which of the following is closest to the maximum possible price
per chair, before sales tax, the business owner could pay based on this budget?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 03503d49 Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is correct. It’s given that a business owner plans to purchase 81 chairs. If 𝑝 is the price per chair, the total price
of purchasing 81 chairs is 81𝑝. It’s also given that 7% sales tax is included, which is equivalent to 81𝑝 multiplied by 1.07,
or 81 ( 1.07 ) 𝑝. Since the total budget is $ 14,000, the inequality representing the situation is given by
81 ( 1.07 ) 𝑝 ≤ 14,000. Dividing both sides of this inequality by 81 ( 1.07 ) and rounding the result to two decimal places
gives 𝑝 ≤ 161.53. To not exceed the budget, the maximum possible price per chair is $ 161.53.

Choice A is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice C is incorrect. This is the maximum possible price per chair including sales tax, not the maximum possible price
per chair before sales tax.

Choice D is incorrect. This is the maximum possible price if the sales tax is added to the total budget, not the maximum
possible price per chair before sales tax.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 2d54c272
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear equations in

two variables

ID: 2d54c272

At a school fair, students can win colored tokens that are worth a different number of points depending on the color. One
student won green tokens and red tokens worth a total of points. The given equation represents this situation.
How many more points is a red token worth than a green token?

ID: 2d54c272 Answer

Correct Answer: 40

Rationale
The correct answer is 40. It's given that 5𝐺 + 45𝑅 = 380, where 𝐺 is the number of green tokens and 𝑅 is the number of
red tokens won by one student and these tokens are worth a total of 380 points. Since the equation represents the
situation where the student won points with green tokens and red tokens for a total of 380 points, each term on the left-
hand side of the equation represents the number of points won for one of the colors. Since the coefficient of 𝐺 in the
given equation is 5, a green token must be worth 5 points. Similarly, since the coefficient of 𝑅 in the given equation is 45,
a red token must be worth 45 points. Therefore, a red token is worth 45 - 5 points, or 40 points, more than a green token.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 1e11190a
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Systems of two linear

equations in two
variables

ID: 1e11190a

Store A sells raspberries for per pint and blackberries for per pint. Store B sells raspberries for per
pint and blackberries for per pint. A certain purchase of raspberries and blackberries would cost at Store A
or at Store B. How many pints of blackberries are in this purchase?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 1e11190a Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice C is correct. It’s given that store A sells raspberries for $ 5 . 50 per pint and blackberries for $ 3 . 00 per pint, and a
certain purchase of raspberries and blackberries at store A would cost $ 37 . 00. It’s also given that store B sells
raspberries for $ 6 . 50 per pint and blackberries for $ 8 . 00 per pint, and this purchase of raspberries and blackberries at
store B would cost $ 66 . 00. Let 𝑟 represent the number of pints of raspberries and 𝑏 represent the number of pints of
blackberries in this purchase. The equation 5 . 50𝑟 + 3 . 00𝑏 = 37 . 00 represents this purchase of raspberries and
blackberries from store A and the equation 6 . 50𝑟 + 8 . 00𝑏 = 66 . 00 represents this purchase of raspberries and
blackberries from store B. Solving the system of equations by elimination gives the value of 𝑟 and the value of 𝑏 that
make the system of equations true. Multiplying both sides of the equation for store A by 6.5 yields
5 . 50𝑟6 . 5 + 3 . 00𝑏6 . 5 = 37 . 006 . 5, or 35 . 75𝑟 + 19 . 5𝑏 = 240 . 5. Multiplying both sides of the equation for store B by 5.5
yields 6 . 50𝑟5 . 5 + 8 . 00𝑏5 . 5 = 66 . 005 . 5, or 35 . 75𝑟 + 44𝑏 = 363. Subtracting both sides of the equation for store A,
35 . 75𝑟 + 19 . 5𝑏 = 240 . 5, from the corresponding sides of the equation for store B, 35 . 75𝑟 + 44𝑏 = 363, yields
35 . 75𝑟 - 35 . 75𝑟 + 44𝑏 - 19 . 5𝑏 = 363 - 240 . 5, or 24 . 5𝑏 = 122 . 5. Dividing both sides of this equationby 24.5 yields 𝑏 = 5.
Thus, 5 pints of blackberries are in
this purchase.

Choices A and B are incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors. Choice D is incorrect. This is the
number of pints of raspberries, not blackberries, in the purchase.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 78391fcc
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear functions

ID: 78391fcc

f(x) 21 18 15 12

The table above shows some values of x and their corresponding values
for the linear function f. What is the x-intercept of the graph of in the xy-
plane?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 78391fcc Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is correct. The equation of a linear function can be written in the form , where , m is the
slope of the graph of , and b is the y-coordinate of the y-intercept of the graph. The value of m can be found

using the slope formula, . According to the table, the points and lie on the graph of

. Using these two points in the slope formula yields , or . Substituting for m in the slope-
intercept form of the equation yields . The value of b can be found by substituting values from the table and

solving; for example, substituting the coordinates of the point into the equation gives
, which yields . This means the function given by the table can be represented by the
equation . The value of the x-intercept of the graph of can be determined by finding the value of x
when . Substituting into yields , or . This corresponds to the point
.

Choice A is incorrect and may result from substituting the value of the slope for the x-coordinate of the x-intercept.
Choice C is incorrect and may result from a calculation error. Choice D is incorrect and may result from substituting the y-
coordinate of the y-intercept for the x-coordinate of the x-intercept.
Question Difficulty: Hard
Question ID b8e73b5b
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear inequalities in

one or two variables

ID: b8e73b5b

Ken is working this summer as part of a crew on a farm. He earned $8 per hour
for the first 10 hours he worked this week. Because of his performance, his crew
leader raised his salary to $10 per hour for the rest of the week. Ken saves 90%
of his earnings from each week. What is the least number of hours he must work
the rest of the week to save at least $270 for the week?

A. 38

B. 33

C. 22

D. 16

ID: b8e73b5b Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is correct. Ken earned $8 per hour for the first 10 hours he worked, so he earned a total of $80 for the first 10
hours he worked. For the rest of the week, Ken was paid at the rate of $10 per hour. Let x be the number of hours he will
work for the rest of the week. The total of Ken’s earnings, in dollars, for the week will be . He saves 90% of his
earnings each week, so this week he will save dollars. The inequality represents the

condition that he will save at least $270 for the week. Factoring 10 out of the expression gives . The
product of 10 and 0.9 is 9, so the inequality can be rewritten as . Dividing both sides of this inequality by 9
yields , so . Therefore, the least number of hours Ken must work the rest of the week to save at least
$270 for the week is 22.

Choices A and B are incorrect because Ken can save $270 by working fewer hours than 38 or 33 for the rest of the week.
Choice D is incorrect. If Ken worked 16 hours for the rest of the week, his total earnings for the week will be
, which is less than $270. Since he saves only 90% of his earnings each week, he would save even
less than $240 for the week.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 830120b0
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear inequalities in

one or two variables

ID: 830120b0

Which of the following consists of the y-coordinates of all the points that
satisfy the system of inequalities above?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 830120b0 Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is correct. Subtracting the same number from each side of an inequality gives an equivalent inequality. Hence,
subtracting 1 from each side of the inequality gives . So the given system of inequalities is equivalent
to the system of inequalities and , which can be rewritten as . Using the transitive
property of inequalities, it follows that .

Choice A is incorrect because there are points with a y-coordinate less than 6 that satisfy the given system of
inequalities. For example, satisfies both inequalities. Choice C is incorrect. This may result from solving the
inequality for x, then replacing x with y. Choice D is incorrect because this inequality allows y-values that are not

the y-coordinate of any point that satisfies both inequalities. For example, is contained in the set ; however,

if 2 is substituted into the first inequality for y, the result is . This cannot be true because the second inequality

gives .

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID e86a06fe
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear functions

ID: e86a06fe

Kaylani used fabric measuring yards in length to make each suit for a men's choir. The relationship between the number
of suits that Kaylani made, , and the total length of fabric that she purchased , in yards, is represented by the equation
. What is the best interpretation of in this context?

A. Kaylani made suits.

B. Kaylani purchased a total of yards of fabric.

C. Kaylani used a total of yards of fabric to make the suits.

D. Kaylani purchased yards more fabric than she used to make the suits.

ID: e86a06fe Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. It’s given that the equation 𝑦 - 5𝑥 = 6 represents the relationship between the number of suits that
Kaylani made, 𝑥, and the total length of fabric she purchased, 𝑦, in yards. Adding 5𝑥 to both sides of the given equation
yields 𝑦 = 5𝑥 + 6. Since Kaylani made 𝑥 suits and used 5 yards of fabric to make each suit, the expression 5𝑥 represents
the total amount of fabric she used to make the suits. Since 𝑦 represents the total length of fabric Kaylani purchased, in
yards, it follows from the equation 𝑦 = 5𝑥 + 6 that Kaylani purchased 5𝑥 yards of fabric to make the suits, plus an
additional 6 yards of fabric. Therefore, the best interpretation of 6 in this context is that Kaylani purchased 6 yards more
fabric than she used to make the suits.

Choice A is incorrect. Kaylani made a total of 𝑥 suits, not 6 suits.

Choice B is incorrect. Kaylani purchased a total of 𝑦 yards of fabric, not a total of 6 yards of fabric.

Choice C is incorrect. Kaylani used a total of 5𝑥 yards of fabric to make the suits, not a total of 6 yards of fabric.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID c4ea43ef
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear equations in

two variables

ID: c4ea43ef

To earn money for college, Avery works two part-time jobs: A and B. She earns
$10 per hour working at job A and $20 per hour working at job B. In one week,
Avery earned a total of s dollars for working at the two part-time jobs. The graph
above represents all possible combinations of numbers of hours Avery could
have worked at the two jobs to earn s dollars. What is the value of s ?

A. 128

B. 160

C. 200

D. 320

ID: c4ea43ef Answer

Correct Answer: B
Rationale
Choice B is correct. Avery earns $10 per hour working at job A. Therefore, if she works a hours at job A, she will earn
dollars. Avery earns $20 per hour working at job B. Therefore, if she works b hours at job B, she will earn dollars. The
graph shown represents all possible combinations of the number of hours Avery could have worked at the two jobs to
earn s dollars. Therefore, if she worked a hours at job A, worked b hours at job B, and earned s dollars from both jobs, the
following equation represents the graph: , where s is a constant. Identifying any point from the
graph and substituting the values of the coordinates for a and b, respectively, in this equation yield the value of s. For
example, the point , where and , lies on the graph. Substituting 16 for a and 0 for b in the equation
yields , or . Similarly, the point , where and , lies on the
graph. Substituting 0 for a and 8 for b in the equation yields , or .

Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. If the value of s is 128, 200, or 320, then no points on the graph will satisfy this
equation. For example, if the value of s is 128 (choice A), then the equation becomes .
The point , where and , lies on the graph. However, substituting 16 for a and 0 for b in
yields , or , which is false. Therefore, doesn’t satisfy the equation, and so the
value of s can’t be 128. Similarly, if (choice C) or (choice D), then substituting 16 for a and 0 for b yields
and , respectively, which are both false.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 59352689
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Systems of two linear

equations in two
variables

ID: 59352689

In the given system of equations, is a constant. If the system has no solution, what is the value of ?

ID: 59352689 Answer

Correct Answer: 3.5, 7/2

Rationale
7
The correct answer is 2 . A system of two linear equations in two variables, 𝑥 and 𝑦, has no solution if the lines
represented by the equations in the xy-plane are distinct and parallel. Two lines represented by equations in standard
form 𝐴𝑥 + 𝐵𝑦 = 𝐶, where 𝐴, 𝐵, and 𝐶 are constants, are parallel if the coefficients for 𝑥 and 𝑦 in one equation are
proportional to the corresponding coefficients in the other equation. The first equation in the given system,
7 5 4 7 7 14 5 4
𝑦 - 𝑥= - 𝑦, can be written in standard form by adding 𝑦 to both sides of the equation, which yields 𝑦 - 𝑥 = , or
8 8 7 8 8 8 8 7
5 14 4 32
- 𝑥+ 𝑦 = . Multiplying each term in this equation by -8 yields 5𝑥 - 14𝑦 = - . The second equation in the given
8 8 7 7
5 7 15 7
system, 4
𝑥 + 4
= 𝑝𝑦 + 4
, can be written in standard form by subtracting 4
and 𝑝𝑦 from both sides of the equation, which
5 8
yields 4
𝑥 - 𝑝𝑦 =
4
. Multiplying each term in this equation by 4 yields 5𝑥 - 4𝑝𝑦 = 8. The coefficient of 𝑥 in the first equation,
32
5𝑥 - 14𝑦 = -
7
, is equal to the coefficient of 𝑥 in the second equation, 5𝑥 - 4𝑝𝑦 = 8. For the lines to be parallel, and for the
coefficients for 𝑥 and 𝑦 in one equation to be proportional to the corresponding coefficients in the other equation, the
coefficient of 𝑦 in the second equation must also be equal to the coefficient of 𝑦 in the first equation. Therefore,
-14 7
-14 = - 4𝑝. Dividing both sides of this equation by -4 yields = 𝑝, or 𝑝 = . Therefore, if the given system of equations
-4 2
7
has no solution, the value of 𝑝 is . Note that 7/2 and 3.5 are examples of ways to enter a correct answer.
2

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 14360f84
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Systems of two linear

equations in two
variables

ID: 14360f84

In the given system of equations, is a constant. If the system has no solution, what is the value of ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 14360f84 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. A system of two linear equations in two variables, 𝑥 and 𝑦, has no solution if the lines represented by
the equations in the xy-plane are distinct and parallel. The graphs of two lines in the xy-plane represented by equations in
the form 𝐴𝑥 + 𝐵𝑦 = 𝐶, where 𝐴, 𝐵, and 𝐶 are constants, are parallel if the coefficients for 𝑥 and 𝑦 in one equation are
proportional to the corresponding coefficients in the other equation. The first equation in the given system can be written
in the form 𝐴𝑥 + 𝐵𝑦 = 𝐶 by subtracting 9𝑦 from both sides of the equation to yield 4𝑥 - 18𝑦 = 5. The second equation in
the given system can be written in the form 𝐴𝑥 + 𝐵𝑦 = 𝐶 by subtracting 4𝑥 from both sides of the equation to yield
-4𝑥 + ℎ𝑦 = 2. The coefficient of 𝑥 in this second equation, -4, is -1 times the coefficient of 𝑥 in the first equation, 4. For the
lines to be parallel, the coefficient of 𝑦 in the second equation, ℎ, must also be -1 times the coefficient of 𝑦 in the first
equation, -18. Thus, ℎ = - 1 ( - 18 ) , or ℎ = 18. Therefore, if the given system has no solution, the value of ℎ is 18.

Choice A is incorrect. If the value of ℎ is -9, then the given system would have one solution, rather than no solution.

Choice B is incorrect. If the value of ℎ is 0, then the given system would have one solution, rather than no solution.

Choice C is incorrect. If the value of ℎ is 9, then the given system would have one solution, rather than no solution.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 0393ba15
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear equations in

one variable

ID: 0393ba15

How many solutions does the given equation have?

A. Zero

B. Exactly one

C. Exactly two

D. Infinitely many

ID: 0393ba15 Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is correct. Adding 98𝑥 to each side of the given equation yields 49𝑥 = 0. Dividing each side of this equation by
49 yields 𝑥 = 0. This means that 0 is the only solution to the given equation. Therefore, the given equation has exactly
one solution.

Choice A is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice D is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID a71b1bc1
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Systems of two linear

equations in two
variables

ID: a71b1bc1

A piece of wire with a length of inches is cut into two parts. One part has a length of inches, and the other part has a
length of inches. The value of is more than times the value of . What is the value of ?

ID: a71b1bc1 Answer

Correct Answer: 25

Rationale
The correct answer is 25. It’s given that a piece of wire has a length of 32 inches and is cut into two parts. It’s also given
that one part has a length of 𝑥 inches and the other part has a length of 𝑦 inches. It follows that the equation 𝑥 + 𝑦 = 32
represents this situation. It’s also given that the value of 𝑥 is 4 more than 3 times the value of 𝑦, or 𝑥 = 3𝑦 + 4.
Substituting 3𝑦 + 4 for 𝑥 in the equation 𝑥 + 𝑦 = 32 yields 3𝑦 + 4 + 𝑦 = 32. Combining like terms on the left-hand side
of this equation yields 4𝑦 + 4 = 32. Subtracting 4 from both sides of this equation yields 4𝑦 = 28. Dividing both sides of
this equation by 4 yields 𝑦 = 7. Substituting 7 for 𝑦 in the equation 𝑥 = 3𝑦 + 4 yields 𝑥 = 3 ( 7 ) + 4, or 𝑥 = 25. Therefore,
the value of 𝑥 is 25.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID cb58833c
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear equations in

two variables

ID: cb58833c

The line with the equation is graphed in the xy‑plane. What is the
x-coordinate of the x‑intercept of the line?

ID: cb58833c Answer

Rationale

The correct answer is 1.25. The y-coordinate of the x-intercept is 0, so 0 can be substituted for y, giving .

This simplifies to . Multiplying both sides of by 5 gives . Dividing both sides of by 4 gives

, which is equivalent to 1.25. Note that 1.25 and 5/4 are examples of ways to enter a correct answer.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 567ac7ab
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Systems of two linear

equations in two
variables

ID: 567ac7ab

One of the two equations in a linear system is . The system has no

solution. Which of the following could be the other equation in the system?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 567ac7ab Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is correct. A system of two linear equations written in standard form has no solution when the equations are
distinct and the ratio of the x-coefficient to the y-coefficient for one equation is equivalent to the ratio of the x-coefficient
to the y-coefficient for the other equation. This ratio for the given equation is 2 to 6, or 1 to 3. Only choice B is an equation
that isn’t equivalent to the given equation and whose ratio of the x-coefficient to the y-coefficient is 1 to 3.

Choice A is incorrect. Multiplying each of the terms in this equation by 2 yields an equation that is equivalent to the given
equation. This system would have infinitely many solutions. Choices C and D are incorrect. The ratio of the x-coefficient
to the y-coefficient in (choice C) is to 2, or to 1. This ratio in (choice D) is 6 to 2, or 3
to 1. Since neither of these ratios is equivalent to that for the given equation, these systems would have exactly one
solution.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 9d0396d4
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear equations in

two variables

ID: 9d0396d4

The point with coordinates lies on the line shown. What is the value of ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 9d0396d4 Answer

Correct Answer: C
Rationale
Choice C is correct. It's given from the graph that the points 0, 7 and 8, 0 lie on the line. For two points on a line, 𝑥1 , 𝑦1 and
𝑦2 - 𝑦1
𝑥2 , 𝑦2 , the slope of the line can be calculated using the slope formula 𝑚 = 𝑥2 - 𝑥1
. Substituting 0, 7 for 𝑥1 , 𝑦1 and 8, 0 for
0-7 7
𝑥2 , 𝑦2 in this formula, the slope of the line can be calculated as 𝑚 = , or 𝑚 = - 8 . It's also given that the point 𝑑, 4 lies
8-0
7 7 0-4 7 -4
on the line. Substituting 𝑑, 4 for 𝑥1 , 𝑦1 , 8, 0 for 𝑥2 , 𝑦2 , and - for 𝑚 in the slope formula yields - = , or - = .
8 8 8-𝑑 8 8-𝑑
7
Multiplying both sides of this equation by 8 - 𝑑 yields - 8
8
- 𝑑 = - 4. Expanding the left-hand side of this equation yields
7 7 8
-7 + 8 𝑑 = - 4. Adding 7 to both sides of this equation yields 8 𝑑 = 3. Multiplying both sides of this equation by 7
yields
24 24
𝑑 = . Thus, the value of 𝑑 is .
7 7

Choice A is incorrect. This is the value of 𝑦 when 𝑥 = 4.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice D is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID a04050d8
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear functions

ID: a04050d8

The table above gives the typical amounts of energy per gram, expressed in both
food calories and kilojoules, of the three macronutrients in food. If the 180 food
calories in a granola bar come entirely from p grams of protein, f grams of fat,
and c grams of carbohydrate, which of the following expresses f in terms of p
and c ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: a04050d8 Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is correct. It is given that there are 4.0 food calories per gram of protein, 9.0 food calories per gram of fat, and
4.0 food calories per gram of carbohydrate. If 180 food calories in a granola bar came from p grams of protein, f grams
of fat, and c grams of carbohydrate, then the situation can be represented by the equation . The
equation can then be rewritten in terms of f by subtracting 4p and 4c from both sides of the equation and then dividing

both sides of the equation by 9. The result is the equation .

Choices A, C, and D are incorrect and may be the result of not representing the situation with the correct equation or
incorrectly rewriting the equation in terms of f.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID daad7c32
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear functions

ID: daad7c32

An object hangs from a spring. The formula relates the length , in

centimeters, of the spring to the weight w, in newtons, of the object. Which of the
following describes the meaning of the 2 in this context?

A. The length, in centimeters, of the spring with no weight attached

B. The weight, in newtons, of an object that will stretch the spring 30 centimeters

C. The increase in the weight, in newtons, of the object for each one-centimeter increase in the length of the spring

D. The increase in the length, in centimeters, of the spring for each one-newton increase in the weight of the object

ID: daad7c32 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. The value 2 is multiplied by w, the weight of the object. When the weight is 0, the length is 30 + 2(0) =
30 centimeters. If the weight increases by w newtons, the length increases by 2w centimeters, or 2 centimeters for each
one-newton increase in weight.

Choice A is incorrect because this describes the value 30. Choice B is incorrect because 30 represents the length of the
spring before it has been stretched. Choice C is incorrect because this describes the value w.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 3f8a701b
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear equations in

one variable

ID: 3f8a701b

The equation , where a and b are constants, has no solutions.

Which of the following must be true? I. II. III.

A. None

B. I only

C. I and II only

D. I and III only

ID: 3f8a701b Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. For a linear equation in a form to have no solutions, the x-terms must have equal
coefficients and the remaining terms must not be equal. Expanding the right-hand side of the given equation yields
. Inspecting the x-terms, 9 must equal a, so statement I must be true. Inspecting the remaining terms, 5

can’t equal . Dividing both of these quantities by 9 yields that b can’t equal . Therefore, statement III must be true.

Since b can have any value other than , statement II may or may not be true.

Choice A is incorrect. For the given equation to have no solution, both and must be true. Choice B is

incorrect because it must also be true that . Choice C is incorrect because when , there are many values of b
that lead to an equation having no solution. That is, b might be 5, but b isn’t required to be 5.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 3a84f885
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Systems of two linear

equations in two
variables

ID: 3a84f885

The solution to the given system of equations is . What is the value of ?

ID: 3a84f885 Answer

Correct Answer: 1677

Rationale
The correct answer is 1,677. Adding the first equation to the second equation in the given system yields
𝑥 - 2 + 𝑥 - 2 + -4𝑦 + 7 + 4𝑦 + 7 = 117 + 442, or 2𝑥 - 2 = 559. Multiplying both sides of this equation by 3 yields
6𝑥 - 2 = 1,677. Therefore, the value of 6𝑥 - 2 is 1,677.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 023c0a8d
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear functions

ID: 023c0a8d

For the function f, if for all values of x,

what is the value of ?

A.

B.

C. 0

D. 2

ID: 023c0a8d Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is correct. It’s given that for all values of x. If , then will equal . Dividing both
sides of by 3 gives . Therefore, substituting 2 for x in the given equation yields , which can
be rewritten as .

Choice A is incorrect. This is the value of the constant in the given equation for f. Choice C is incorrect and may result
from substituting , rather than , into the given equation. Choice D is incorrect. This is the value of x that yields
for the left-hand side of the given equation; it’s not the value of .

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 75012ee7
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Systems of two linear

equations in two
variables

ID: 75012ee7

For each real number , which of the following points lies on the graph of each equation in the xy-plane for the given
system?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 75012ee7 Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is correct. The two given equations are equivalent because the second equation can be obtained from the first
equation by multiplying each side of the equation by 5. Thus, the graphs of the equations are coincident, so if a point lies
on the graph of one of the equations, it also lies on the graph of the other equation. A point 𝑥, 𝑦 lies on the graph of an
equation in the xy-plane if and only if this point represents a solution to the equation. It is sufficient, therefore, to find the
3𝑟 7
point that represents a solution to the first given equation. Substituting the x- and y-coordinates of choice B, - + and 𝑟,
2 2
3𝑟 7
for 𝑥 and 𝑦, respectively, in the first equation yields 2- 2 + 2 + 3𝑟 = 7, which is equivalent to -3𝑟 + 7 + 3𝑟 = 7, or 7 = 7.
3𝑟 7
Therefore, the point - + 2 , 𝑟 represents a solution to the first equation and thus lies on the graph of each equation in the
2
xy-plane for the given system.

Choice A is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice D is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID a7a14e87
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear equations in

two variables

ID: a7a14e87

In the xy-plane, line k is defined by . Line j is perpendicular to line k, and

the y-intercept of line j is . Which of the following is an equation of line j ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: a7a14e87 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. It’s given that line j is perpendicular to line k and that line k is defined by the equation . This
equation can be rewritten in slope-intercept form, , where m represents the slope of the line and b
represents the y-coordinate of the y-intercept of the line, by subtracting x from both sides of the equation, which yields
. Thus, the slope of line k is . Since line j and line k are perpendicular, their slopes are opposite reciprocals of
each other. Thus, the slope of line j is 1. It’s given that the y-intercept of line j is . Therefore, the equation for line j in
slope-intercept form is , which can be rewritten as .

Choices A, B, and C are incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 5e08a055
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Systems of two linear

equations in two
variables

ID: 5e08a055

One of the equations in a system of two linear equations is given. The system has no solution. Which equation could be
the second equation in the system?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 5e08a055 Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is correct. A system of two linear equations in two variables, 𝑥 and 𝑦, has no solution if the lines represented by
the equations in the xy-plane are parallel and distinct. Lines represented by equations in standard form, 𝐴𝑥 + 𝐵𝑦 = 𝐶 and
𝐷𝑥 + 𝐸𝑦 = 𝐹, are parallel if the coefficients for 𝑥 and 𝑦 in one equation are proportional to the corresponding coefficients
𝐷 𝐸 𝐹
in the other equation, meaning = ; and the lines are distinct if the constants are not proportional, meaning is not
𝐴 𝐵 𝐶
𝐷 𝐸
equal to 𝐴
or 𝐵 . The given equation, 𝑦 = 6𝑥 + 18, can be written in standard form by subtracting 6𝑥 from both sides of the
equation to yield -6𝑥 + 𝑦 = 18. Therefore, the given equation can be written in the form 𝐴𝑥 + 𝐵𝑦 = 𝐶, where 𝐴 = - 6, 𝐵 = 1
, and 𝐶 = 18. The equation in choice B, -6𝑥 + 𝑦 = 22, is written in the form 𝐷𝑥 + 𝐸𝑦 = 𝐹, where 𝐷 = - 6, 𝐸 = 1, and 𝐹 = 22.
𝐷 -6 𝐷 𝐸 1 𝐸 𝐹 22
Therefore, = , which can be rewritten as = 1; = , which can be rewritten as = 1; and = , which can be
𝐴 -6 𝐴 𝐵 1 𝐵 𝐶 18
𝐹 11 𝐷 𝐸 𝐹
rewritten as 𝐶 = 9. Since 𝐴
= 1, 𝐵
= 1, and 𝐶
is not equal to 1, it follows that the given equation and the equation
-6𝑥 + 𝑦 = 22 are parallel and distinct. Therefore, a system of two linear equations consisting of the given equation and
the equation -6𝑥 + 𝑦 = 22 has no solution. Thus, the equation in choice B could be the second equation in the system.

Choice A is incorrect. The equation -6𝑥 + 𝑦 = 18 and the given equation represent the same line in the xy-plane.
Therefore, a system of these linear equations would have infinitely many solutions, rather than no solution.

Choice C is incorrect. The equation -12𝑥 + 𝑦 = 36 and the given equation represent lines in the xy-plane that are distinct
and not parallel. Therefore, a system of these linear equations would have exactly one solution, rather than no solution.

Choice D is incorrect. The equation -12𝑥 + 𝑦 = 18 and the given equation represent lines in the xy-plane that are distinct
and not parallel. Therefore, a system of these linear equations would have exactly one solution, rather than no solution.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 9f70fd47
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear equations in

two variables

ID: 9f70fd47

What is the y-coordinate of the y-intercept of the graph of in the xy-plane?

ID: 9f70fd47 Answer

Correct Answer: 189/5, 37.8

Rationale
189
The correct answer is 5
. A y-intercept of a graph in the xy-plane is a point where the graph intersects the y-axis, which is
30 5𝑦 5𝑦
a point with an x-coordinate of 0. Substituting 0 for 𝑥 in the given equation yields 7
= -
9
+ 21, or 0 = -
9
+ 21.
5𝑦
Subtracting 21 from both sides of this equation yields -21 = - . Multiplying both sides of this equation by -9 yields
9
189
189 = 5𝑦. Dividing both sides of this equation by 5 yields 5
= 𝑦. Therefore, the y-coordinate of the y-intercept of the
189
graph of the given equation in the xy-plane is 5
. Note that 189/5 and 37.8 are examples of ways to enter a correct
answer.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID a1fd2304
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear equations in

two variables

ID: a1fd2304

How many liters of a 25% saline solution must be added to 3 liters of a 10%
saline solution to obtain a 15% saline solution?

ID: a1fd2304 Answer

Rationale
The correct answer is 1.5. The total amount, in liters, of a saline solution can be expressed as the liters of each type of
saline solution multiplied by the percent concentration of the saline solution. This gives , , and
, where x is the amount, in liters, of 25% saline solution and 10%, 15%, and 25% are represented as 0.10,

0.15, and 0.25, respectively. Thus, the equation must be true. Multiplying 3 by 0.10 and
distributing 0.15 to yields . Subtracting 0.15x and 0.30 from each side of the
equation gives . Dividing each side of the equation by 0.10 yields . Note that 1.5 and 3/2 are
examples of ways to enter a correct answer.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 628300a9
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear equations in

one variable

ID: 628300a9

A science teacher is preparing the 5 stations of a science laboratory. Each

station will have either Experiment A materials or Experiment B materials, but
not both. Experiment A requires 6 teaspoons of salt, and Experiment B requires
4 teaspoons of salt. If x is the number of stations that will be set up for
Experiment A and the remaining stations will be set up for Experiment B, which
of the following expressions represents the total number of teaspoons of salt
required?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 628300a9 Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is correct. It is given that x represents the number of stations that will be set up for Experiment A and that there
will be 5 stations total, so it follows that 5 – x is the number of stations that will be set up for Experiment B. It is also
given that Experiment A requires 6 teaspoons of salt and that Experiment B requires 4 teaspoons of salt, so the total
number of teaspoons of salt required is 6x + 4(5 – x), which simplifies to 2x + 20.

Choices A, B, and D are incorrect and may be the result of not understanding the description of the context.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID bbf9e5ce
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear functions

ID: bbf9e5ce

For groups of or more people, a museum charges per person for the first people and for each additional
person. Which function gives the total charge, in dollars, for a tour group with people, where ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: bbf9e5ce Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is correct. A tour group with 𝑛 people, where 𝑛 ≥ 25, can be split into two subgroups: the first 25 people and the
additional 𝑛 - 25 people. Since the museum charges $ 21 per person for the first 25 people and $ 14 for each additional
person, the charge for the first 25 people is $ 21 ( 25 ) and the charge for the additional 𝑛 - 25 people is $ 14 ( 𝑛 - 25 ) .
Therefore, the total charge, in dollars, is given by the function 𝑓 ( 𝑛 ) = 21 ( 25 ) + 14 ( 𝑛 - 25 ) , or 𝑓 ( 𝑛 ) = 14𝑛 + 175.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice D is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 27f5fff3
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Systems of two linear

equations in two
variables

ID: 27f5fff3

If a new graph of three linear equations is created using the system of equations shown and the equation
, how many solutions will the resulting system of three equations have?

A. Zero

B. Exactly one

C. Exactly two

D. Infinitely many

ID: 27f5fff3 Answer

Correct Answer: A
Rationale
Choice A is correct. A solution to a system of equations must satisfy each equation in the system. It follows that if an
ordered pair 𝑥, 𝑦 is a solution to the system, the point 𝑥, 𝑦 lies on the graph in the xy-plane of each equation in the system.
The only point that lies on each graph of the system of two linear equations shown is their intersection point 8, 2. It
follows that if a new graph of three linear equations is created using the system of equations shown and the graph of
𝑥 + 4𝑦 = - 16, this system has either zero solutions or one solution, the point 8, 2. Substituting 8 for 𝑥 and 2 for 𝑦 in the
equation 𝑥 + 4𝑦 = - 16 yields 8 + 42 = - 16, or 16 = - 16. Since this equation is not true, the point 8, 2 does not lie on the
graph of 𝑥 + 4𝑦 = - 16. Therefore, 8, 2 is not a solution to the system of three equations. It follows that there are zero
solutions to this system.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice D is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 5b7599a6
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear equations in

two variables

ID: 5b7599a6

The graph shows a linear relationship between and . Which equation represents this relationship, where is a
positive constant?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 5b7599a6 Answer

Correct Answer: C
Rationale
Choice C is correct. The equation representing the linear relationship shown can be written in slope-intercept form
𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 + 𝑏, where 𝑚 is the slope and 0, 𝑏 is the y-intercept of the line. The line shown passes through the points 0, 6 and
𝑦2 - 𝑦1
2, 0. Given two points on a line, 𝑥1 , 𝑦1 and 𝑥2 , 𝑦2 , the slope of the line can be calculated using the equation 𝑚 = 𝑥2 - 𝑥1
.
0-6 6
Substituting 0, 6 and 2, 0 for 𝑥1 , 𝑦1 and 𝑥2 , 𝑦2 , respectively, in this equation yields 𝑚 = 2-0
, which is equivalent to 𝑚 = - 2 ,
or 𝑚 = -3. Since 0, 6 is the y-intercept, it follows that 𝑏 = 6. Substituting -3 for 𝑚 and 6 for 𝑏 in the equation 𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 + 𝑏
yields 𝑦 = -3𝑥 + 6. Adding 3𝑥 to both sides of this equation yields 3𝑥 + 𝑦 = 6. Multiplying this equation by 6 yields
18𝑥 + 6𝑦 = 36. It follows that the equation 18𝑥 + 𝑅𝑦 = 36, where 𝑅 is a positive constant, represents this relationship.

Choice A is incorrect. The graph of this relationship passes through the point 0, 2, not 0, 6.

Choice B is incorrect. The graph of this relationship passes through the point 0, 2, not 0, 6.

Choice D is incorrect. The graph of this relationship passes through the point -2, 0, not 2, 0.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 49800634
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Linear equations in

two variables

ID: 49800634

The table shows two values of and their corresponding values of . In the xy-plane, the graph of the linear equation
representing this relationship passes through the point . What is the value of ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 49800634 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. The linear relationship between 𝑥 and 𝑦 can be represented by the equation 𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 + 𝑏, where 𝑚 is
the slope of the graph of this equation in the xy-plane and 𝑏 is the y-coordinate of the y-intercept. The slope of a line
𝑦2 - 𝑦1
between any two points 𝑥1 , 𝑦1 and 𝑥2 , 𝑦2 on the line can be calculated using the slope formula 𝑚 = 𝑥2 - 𝑥1
. Based on the
table, the graph contains the points -18, - 48 and 7, 52. Substituting -18, - 48 and 7, 52 for 𝑥1 , 𝑦1 and 𝑥2 , 𝑦2 , respectively, in
52 - -48 100
the slope formula yields 𝑚 = 7 - -18
, which is equivalent to 𝑚 = 25
, or 𝑚 = 4. Substituting 4 for 𝑚, -18 for 𝑥, and -48 for 𝑦
in the equation 𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 + 𝑏 yields -48 = 4-18 + 𝑏, or -48 = - 72 + 𝑏. Adding 72 to both sides of this equation yields 24 = 𝑏
. Therefore, 𝑚 = 4 and 𝑏 = 24. Substituting 4 for 𝑚 and 24 for 𝑏 in the equation 𝑦 = 𝑚𝑥 + 𝑏 yields 𝑦 = 4𝑥 + 24. Thus, the
equation 𝑦 = 4𝑥 + 24 represents the linear relationship between 𝑥 and 𝑦. It's also given that the graph of the linear
1 1
equation representing this relationship in the xy-plane passes through the point , 𝑎. Substituting for 𝑥 and 𝑎 for 𝑦 in the
7 7
1 4 168 172
equation 𝑦 = 4𝑥 + 24 yields 𝑎 = 47 + 24, which is equivalent to 𝑎 = 7
+ 7
, or 𝑎 = 7
.

Choice A is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 73b3b7d8
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Algebra Systems of two linear

equations in two
variables

ID: 73b3b7d8

The solution to the given system of equations is . What is the value of ?

ID: 73b3b7d8 Answer

Correct Answer: 20

Rationale
The correct answer is 20. Adding the first equation to the second equation in the given system yields
5𝑦 - 5𝑦 = 10𝑥 + 5𝑥 + 11 - 21, or 0 = 15𝑥 - 10. Adding 10 to both sides of this equation yields 10 = 15𝑥. Multiplying both
sides of this equation by 2 yields 20 = 30𝑥. Therefore, the value of 30𝑥 is 20.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 301faf80
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 301faf80

The product of two positive integers is . If the first integer is greater than twice the second integer, what is the
smaller of the two integers?

ID: 301faf80 Answer

Correct Answer: 14

Rationale
The correct answer is 14. Let 𝑥 represent the first integer and 𝑦 represent the second integer. If the first integer is 5
greater than twice the second integer, then 𝑥 = 2𝑦 + 5. It's given that the product of the two integers is 462; therefore
𝑥𝑦 = 462. Substituting 2𝑦 + 5 for 𝑥 in this equation yields ( 2𝑦 + 5 ) ( 𝑦 ) = 462, which can be written as 2𝑦2 + 5𝑦 = 462.
Subtracting 462 from each side of this equation yields 2𝑦2 + 5𝑦 - 462 = 0. The left-hand side of this equation can be
factored by finding two values whose product is 2 ( - 462 ) , or -924, and whose sum is 5. The two values whose product
is -924 and whose sum is 5 are 33 and -28. Thus, the equation 2𝑦2 + 5𝑦 - 462 = 0 can be rewritten as
2𝑦2 - 28𝑦 + 33𝑦 - 462 = 0, which is equivalent to 2𝑦 ( 𝑦 - 14 ) + 33 ( 𝑦 - 14 ) = 0, or ( 2𝑦 + 33 ) ( 𝑦 - 14 ) = 0. By the zero
product property, it follows that 2𝑦 + 33 = 0 or 𝑦 - 14 = 0. Subtracting 33 from both sides of the equation 2𝑦 + 33 = 0
33
yields 2𝑦 = - 33. Dividing both sides of this equation by 2 yields 𝑦 = - 2
. Since 𝑦 is a positive integer, the value of 𝑦 isn't
33
- . Adding 14 to both sides of the equation 𝑦 - 14 = 0 yields 𝑦 = 14. Substituting 14 for 𝑦 in the equation 𝑥𝑦 = 462 yields
2
𝑥 ( 14 ) = 462. Dividing both sides of this equation by 14 yields 𝑥 = 33. Therefore, the two integers are 14 and 33, so the
smaller of the two integers is 14.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 02060533
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 02060533

The table shows three values of and their corresponding values of , where and is a linear function.
What is the y-intercept of the graph of in the xy-plane?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 02060533 Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
𝑓𝑥
Choice A is correct. It's given that the table shows values of 𝑥 and their corresponding values of 𝑔𝑥, where 𝑔𝑥 = 𝑥+3
. It's
also given that 𝑓 is a linear function. It follows that an equation that defines 𝑓 can be written in the form 𝑓𝑥 = 𝑚𝑥 + 𝑏,
where 𝑚 represents the slope and 𝑏 represents the y-coordinate of the y-intercept 0, 𝑏 of the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥 in the xy-
plane. The slope of the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥 can be found using two points, 𝑥1 , 𝑦1 and 𝑥2 , 𝑦2 , that are on the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥,
𝑦2 - 𝑦1
and the formula 𝑚 = 𝑥2 - 𝑥1
. Since the table shows values of 𝑥 and their corresponding values of 𝑔𝑥, substituting values of
𝑓𝑥
𝑥 and 𝑔𝑥 in the equation 𝑔𝑥 = 𝑥+3
can be used to define function 𝑓. Using the first pair of values from the table, 𝑥 = - 27
𝑓-27 𝑓-27
and 𝑔𝑥 = 3, yields 3 = -27 + 3
, or 3 = -24
. Multiplying each side of this equation by -24 yields -72 = 𝑓-27, so the point
𝑓-9
-27, - 72 is on the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥. Using the second pair of values from the table, 𝑥 = - 9 and 𝑔𝑥 = 0, yields 0 = , or
-9 + 3
𝑓-9
0= . Multiplying each side of this equation by -6 yields 0 = 𝑓-9, so the point -9, 0 is on the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥.
-6
𝑦2 - 𝑦1 0 - -72
Substituting -27, - 72 and -9, 0 for 𝑥1 , 𝑦1 and 𝑥2 , 𝑦2 , respectively, in the formula 𝑚 = 𝑥2 - 𝑥1
yields 𝑚 = -9 - -27
, or 𝑚 = 4.
Substituting 4 for 𝑚 in the equation 𝑓𝑥 = 𝑚𝑥 + 𝑏 yields 𝑓𝑥 = 4𝑥 + 𝑏. Since 0 = 𝑓-9, substituting -9 for 𝑥 and 0 for 𝑓𝑥 in the
equation 𝑓𝑥 = 4𝑥 + 𝑏 yields 0 = 4-9 + 𝑏, or 0 = - 36 + 𝑏. Adding 36 to both sides of this equation yields 36 = 𝑏. It follows
that 36 is the y-coordinate of the y-intercept 0, 𝑏 of the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥. Therefore, the y-intercept of the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥 is
0, 36.

Choice B is incorrect. 12 is the y-coordinate of the y-intercept of the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑔𝑥.

Choice C is incorrect. 4 is the slope of the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥.

Choice D is incorrect. -9 is the x-coordinate of the x-intercept of the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 91e7ea5e
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 91e7ea5e

The quadratic function h is defined as shown. In the xy-plane, the graph of

intersects the x-axis at the points and , where t is a constant.
What is the value of t ?

A. 1

B. 2

C. 4

D. 8

ID: 91e7ea5e Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. It’s given that the graph of intersects the x-axis at and , where t is a constant.
Since this graph intersects the x-axis when or when , it follows that and . If ,

then . Adding 32 to both sides of this equation yields . Dividing both sides of this

equation by 2 yields . Taking the square root of both sides of this equation yields . Adding 4 to both
sides of this equation yields . Therefore, the value of t is 8.

Choices A, B, and C are incorrect and may result from calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 358f18bc
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 358f18bc

What is the minimum value of the given function?

ID: 358f18bc Answer

Correct Answer: 1728

Rationale
2
The correct answer is 1,728. The given function can be rewritten in the form 𝑓𝑥 = 𝑎𝑥 - ℎ + 𝑘, where 𝑎 is a positive
constant and the minimum value, 𝑘, of the function occurs when the value of 𝑥 is ℎ. By completing the square,
48 2 48 2 2
𝑓𝑥 = 𝑥2 - 48𝑥 + 2,304 can be written as 𝑓𝑥 = 𝑥2 - 48𝑥 + + 2,304 - , or 𝑓𝑥 = 𝑥 - 24 + 1,728. This equation is in the
2 2
2
form 𝑓𝑥 = 𝑎𝑥 - ℎ + 𝑘, where 𝑎 = 1, ℎ = 24, and 𝑘 = 1,728. Therefore, the minimum value of the given function is 1,728.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 3a9d60b2
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear equations

in one variable and
systems of equations
in two variables

ID: 3a9d60b2

What is the positive solution to the given equation?

ID: 3a9d60b2 Answer

Correct Answer: 9

Rationale
The correct answer is 9. The given equation can be rewritten as 54 - 𝑥 = 25. Dividing each side of this equation by 5
yields 4 - 𝑥 = 5. By the definition of absolute value, if 4 - 𝑥 = 5, then 4 - 𝑥 = 5 or 4 - 𝑥 = - 5. Subtracting 4 from each side
of the equation 4 - 𝑥 = 5 yields -𝑥 = 1. Dividing each side of this equation by -1 yields 𝑥 = - 1. Similarly, subtracting 4
from each side of the equation 4 - 𝑥 = - 5 yields -𝑥 = - 9. Dividing each side of this equation by -1 yields 𝑥 = 9. Therefore,
since the two solutions to the given equation are -1 and 9, the positive solution to the given equation is 9.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 8490cc45
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 8490cc45

The function is defined by . What is the y-intercept of the graph of in the xy-plane?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 8490cc45 Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is correct. The y-intercept of the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥 in the xy-plane occurs at the point on the graph where 𝑥 = 0. In
other words, when 𝑥 = 0, the corresponding value of 𝑓𝑥 is the y-coordinate of the y-intercept. Substituting 0 for 𝑥 in the
given equation yields 𝑓0 = -820 + 22, which is equivalent to 𝑓0 = -81 + 22, or 𝑓0 = 14. Thus, when 𝑥 = 0, the
corresponding value of 𝑓𝑥 is 14. Therefore, the y-intercept of the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥 in the xy-plane is 0, 14.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

𝑥 𝑥
Choice D is incorrect. This could be the y-intercept for 𝑓𝑥 = -82 , not 𝑓𝑥 = -82 + 22.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID fc3d783a
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear equations

in one variable and
systems of equations
in two variables

ID: fc3d783a

In the -plane, a line with equation intersects a parabola at exactly one point. If the parabola has equation
, where is a positive constant, what is the value of ?

ID: fc3d783a Answer

Correct Answer: 6

Rationale
The correct answer is 6. It’s given that a line with equation 2𝑦 = 4 . 5 intersects a parabola with equation 𝑦 = - 4𝑥2 + 𝑏𝑥,
where 𝑏 is a positive constant, at exactly one point in the xy-plane. It follows that the system of equations consisting of
2𝑦 = 4 . 5 and 𝑦 = - 4𝑥2 + 𝑏𝑥 has exactly one solution. Dividing both sides of the equation of the line by 2 yields 𝑦 = 2 . 25
. Substituting 2.25 for 𝑦 in the equation of the parabola yields 2 . 25 = - 4𝑥2 + 𝑏𝑥. Adding 4𝑥2 and subtracting 𝑏𝑥 from
both sides of this equation yields 4𝑥2 - 𝑏𝑥 + 2 . 25 = 0. A quadratic equation in the form of 𝑎𝑥2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐 = 0, where 𝑎, 𝑏,
2
and 𝑐 are constants, has exactly one solution when the discriminant, 𝑏 - 4𝑎𝑐, is equal to zero. Substituting 4 for 𝑎 and
2 2 2
2.25 for 𝑐 in the expression 𝑏 - 4𝑎𝑐 and setting this expression equal to 0 yields 𝑏 - 4 ( 4 ) ( 2 . 25 ) = 0, or 𝑏 - 36 = 0.
2
Adding 36 to each side of this equation yields 𝑏 = 36. Taking the square root of each side of this equation yields
𝑏 = ± 6. It’s given that 𝑏 is positive, so the value of 𝑏 is 6.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID ba0edc30
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear equations

in one variable and
systems of equations
in two variables

ID: ba0edc30

One solution to the given equation can be written as , where is a constant. What is the value of ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: ba0edc30 Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is correct. Adding 9 to each side of the given equation yields 𝑥2 - 2𝑥 = 9. To complete the square, adding 1 to
2
each side of this equation yields 𝑥2 - 2𝑥 + 1 = 9 + 1, or 𝑥 - 1 = 10. Taking the square root of each side of this equation
yields 𝑥 - 1 = ± √10 . Adding 1 to each side of this equation yields 𝑥 = 1 ± √10 . Since it's given that one of the solutions
to the equation can be written as 1 + √𝑘 , the value of 𝑘 must be 10.

Alternate approach: It's given that 1 + √𝑘 is a solution to the given equation. It follows that 𝑥 = 1 + √𝑘 . Substituting
2
1 + √𝑘 for 𝑥 in the given equation yields 1 + √𝑘 - 21 + √𝑘 - 9 = 0, or 1 + √𝑘 1 + √𝑘 - 21 + √𝑘 - 9 = 0. Expanding the
products on the left-hand side of this equation yields 1 + 2√𝑘 + 𝑘 - 2 - 2√𝑘 - 9 = 0, or 𝑘 - 10 = 0. Adding 10 to each side
of this equation yields 𝑘 = 10.

Choice A is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice D is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID a9084ca4
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: a9084ca4

The given function models the number of advertisements a company sent to its clients each year, where represents
the number of years since , and . If is graphed in the xy-plane, which of the following is the
best interpretation of the y-intercept of the graph in this context?

A. The minimum estimated number of advertisements the company sent to its clients during the years was .

B. The minimum estimated number of advertisements the company sent to its clients during the years was .

C. The estimated number of advertisements the company sent to its clients in was .

D. The estimated number of advertisements the company sent to its clients in was .

ID: a9084ca4 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. The y-intercept of a graph in the xy-plane is the point where 𝑥 = 0. For the given function 𝑓, the y-
intercept of the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥 in the xy-plane can be found by substituting 0 for 𝑥 in the equation 𝑦 = 9,0000.66𝑥 , which
gives 𝑦 = 9,0000.660 . This is equivalent to 𝑦 = 9,0001, or 𝑦 = 9,000. Therefore, the y-intercept of the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥 is
0, 9,000. It’s given that the function 𝑓 models the number of advertisements a company sent to its clients each year.
Therefore, 𝑓𝑥 represents the estimated number of advertisements the company sent to its clients each year. It's also
given that 𝑥 represents the number of years since 1997. Therefore, 𝑥 = 0 represents 0 years since 1997, or 1997. Thus,
the best interpretation of the y-intercept of the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥 is that the estimated number of advertisements the
company sent to its clients in 1997 was 9,000.

Choice A is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 2c6f214f
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 2c6f214f

The first term of a sequence is . Each term after the first is times the preceding term. If represents the th term of
the sequence, which equation gives in terms of ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 2c6f214f Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. Since 𝑤 represents the 𝑛th term of the sequence and 9 is the first term of the sequence, the value of
𝑤 is 9 when the value of 𝑛 is 1. Since each term after the first is 4 times the preceding term, the value of 𝑤 is 94 when the
2 𝑛-1
value of 𝑛 is 2. Therefore, the value of 𝑤 is 944, or 94 , when the value of 𝑛 is 3. More generally, the value of 𝑤 is 94 for
𝑛-1
a given value of 𝑛. Therefore, the equation 𝑤 = 94 gives 𝑤 in terms of 𝑛.

Choice A is incorrect. This equation describes a sequence for which the first term is 36, rather than 9, and each term after
the first is 9, rather than 4, times the preceding term.

Choice B is incorrect. This equation describes a sequence for which the first term is 4, rather than 9, and each term after
the first is 9, rather than 4, times the preceding term.

Choice C is incorrect. This equation describes a sequence for which the first term is 36, rather than 9.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 4661e2a9
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear equations

in one variable and
systems of equations
in two variables

ID: 4661e2a9

Which ordered pair is a solution to the

system of equations above?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 4661e2a9 Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is correct. The solution to the given system of equations can be found by solving the first equation for x, which
gives , and substituting that value of x into the second equation which gives . Rewriting

this equation by adding like terms and expanding gives . Subtracting from both sides of

this equation gives . Adding to 2 to both sides of this equation gives . Therefore, it follows that
. Substituting for y in the first equation yields . Adding to both sides of this equation

yields . Therefore, the ordered pair is a solution to the given system of equations.

Choice B is incorrect. Substituting for x and for y in the first equation yields , or ,

which isn’t a true statement. Choice C is incorrect. Substituting for x and for y in the second equation yields

, or , which isn’t a true statement. Choice D is incorrect.

Substituting for x and for y in the second equation yields , or

, which isn’t a true statement.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 371cbf6b
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Equivalent

expressions

ID: 371cbf6b

The equation above is true for all x, where a and b are

constants. What is the value of ab ?

A. 18

B. 20

C. 24

D. 40

ID: 371cbf6b Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is correct. If the equation is true for all x, then the expressions on both sides of the equation will be equivalent.
Multiplying the polynomials on the left-hand side of the equation gives . On the

right-hand side of the equation, the only -term is . Since the expressions on both sides of the equation are

equivalent, it follows that , which can be rewritten as . Therefore,

, which gives .

Choice A is incorrect. If , then the coefficient of on the left-hand side of the equation would be

, which doesn’t equal the coefficient of , , on the right-hand side. Choice B is incorrect. If ,

then the coefficient of on the left-hand side of the equation would be , which doesn’t equal the

coefficient of , , on the right-hand side. Choice D is incorrect. If , then the coefficient of on the left-hand

side of the equation would be , which doesn’t equal the coefficient of , , on the right-hand side.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID c3b116d7
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Equivalent

expressions

ID: c3b116d7

Which of the following expressions is(are) a factor of ?

A. I only

B. II only

C. I and II

D. Neither I nor II

ID: c3b116d7 Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is correct. The given expression can be factored by first finding two values whose sum is 20 and whose product
is 3-63, or -189. Those two values are 27 and -7. It follows that the given expression can be rewritten as
3𝑥2 + 27𝑥 - 7𝑥 - 63. Since the first two terms of this expression have a common factor of 3𝑥 and the last two terms of this
expression have a common factor of -7, this expression can be rewritten as 3𝑥𝑥 + 9 - 7𝑥 + 9. Since the two terms of this
expression have a common factor of 𝑥 + 9, it can be rewritten as 3𝑥 - 7𝑥 + 9. Therefore, expression II, 3𝑥 - 7, is a factor of
3𝑥2 + 20𝑥 - 63, but expression I, 𝑥 - 9, is not a factor of 3𝑥2 + 20𝑥 - 63.

Choice A is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice D is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 40c09d66
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Equivalent

expressions

ID: 40c09d66

If for all positive values of x,

what is the value of ?

ID: 40c09d66 Answer

Rationale

The correct answer is . The value of can be found by first rewriting the left-hand side of the given equation as

. Using the properties of exponents, this expression can be rewritten as . This expression can be rewritten

by subtracting the fractions in the exponent, which yields . Thus, is . Note that 7/6, 1.166, and 1.167 are
examples of ways to enter a correct answer.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID b8f13a3a
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: b8f13a3a

Function is defined by , where and are constants. In the xy-plane, the graph of
has a y-intercept at . The product of and is . What is the value of ?

ID: b8f13a3a Answer

Correct Answer: 20

Rationale
The correct answer is 20. It’s given that 𝑓𝑥 = - 𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏. Substituting -𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏 for 𝑓𝑥 in the equation 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥 - 12 yields
75 75
𝑦 = - 𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏 - 12. It’s given that the y-intercept of the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥 - 12 is 0, - . Substituting 0 for 𝑥 and - 7 for 𝑦 in the
7
75 75 75
equation 𝑦 = - 𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏 - 12 yields - 7 = - 𝑎0 + 𝑏 - 12, which is equivalent to - 7 = - 1 + 𝑏 - 12, or - 7 = 𝑏 - 13. Adding 13 to
16 320 320 16
both sides of this equation yields = 𝑏. It’s given that the product of 𝑎 and 𝑏 is , or 𝑎𝑏 = . Substituting for 𝑏 in
7 7 7 7
16 320 16
this equation yields 𝑎7 = 7
. Dividing both sides of this equation by 7
yields 𝑎 = 20.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID f65288e8
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear equations

in one variable and
systems of equations
in two variables

ID: f65288e8

If x is a solution to the given equation, which of the

following is a possible value of ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: f65288e8 Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale

Choice A is correct. The given equation can be rewritten as . Multiplying both sides of this equation by

yields . Dividing both sides of this equation by 4 yields . Taking the square root of

both sides of this equation yields or . Therefore, a possible value of is .

Choices B, C, and D are incorrect and may result from computational or conceptual errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 2c288148
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear equations

in one variable and
systems of equations
in two variables

ID: 2c288148

In the given equation, is a constant. The equation has exactly one real solution. What is the minimum possible value of
?

ID: 2c288148 Answer

Correct Answer: 231

Rationale
The correct answer is 231. It's given that √𝑘 - 𝑥 = 58 - 𝑥. Squaring both sides of this equation yields 𝑘 - 𝑥 = ( 58 - 𝑥 ) 2 ,
which is equivalent to the given equation if 58 - 𝑥 > 0. It follows that if a solution to the equation 𝑘 - 𝑥 = ( 58 - 𝑥 ) 2
satisfies 58 - 𝑥 > 0, then it's also a solution to the given equation; if not, it's extraneous. The equation 𝑘 - 𝑥 = ( 58 - 𝑥 ) 2
can be rewritten as 𝑘 - 𝑥 = 3,364 - 116𝑥 + 𝑥2 . Adding 𝑥 to both sides of this equation yields 𝑘 = 𝑥2 - 115𝑥 + 3,364.
Subtracting 𝑘 from both sides of this equation yields 0 = 𝑥2 - 115𝑥 + ( 3,364 - 𝑘 ) . The number of solutions to a quadratic
equation in the form 0 = 𝑎𝑥2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐, where 𝑎, 𝑏, and 𝑐 are constants, can be determined by the value of the
2 2
discriminant, 𝑏 - 4𝑎𝑐. Substituting -115 for 𝑏, 1 for 𝑎, and 3,364 - 𝑘 for 𝑐 in 𝑏 - 4𝑎𝑐 yields ( - 115 ) 2 - 4 ( 1 ) ( 3,364 - 𝑘 ) , or
4𝑘 - 231. The equation 0 = 𝑥2 - 115𝑥 + ( 3,364 - 𝑘 ) has exactly one real solution if the discriminant is equal to zero, or
4𝑘 - 231 = 0. Subtracting 231 from both sides of this equation yields 4𝑘 = 231. Dividing both sides of this equation by 4
yields 𝑘 = 57.75. Therefore, if 𝑘 = 57.75, then the equation 0 = 𝑥2 - 115𝑥 + ( 3,364 - 𝑘 ) has exactly one real solution.
Substituting 57.75 for 𝑘 in this equation yields 0 = 𝑥2 - 115𝑥 + ( 3,364 - 57.75 ) , or 0 = 𝑥2 - 115𝑥 + 3,306.25, which is
equivalent to 0 = ( 𝑥 - 57.5 ) 2 . Taking the square root of both sides of this equation yields 0 = 𝑥 - 57.5. Adding 57.5 to
both sides of this equation yields 57.5 = 𝑥. To check whether this solution satisfies 58 - 𝑥 > 0, the solution, 57.5, can be
substituted for 𝑥 in 58 - 𝑥 > 0, which yields 58 - 57.5 > 0, or 0.5 > 0. Since 0.5 is greater than 0, it follows that if 𝑘 = 57.75,
or 4𝑘 = 231, then the given equation has exactly one real solution. If 4𝑘 < 231, then the discriminant, 4𝑘 - 231, is negative
and the given equation has no solutions. Therefore, the minimum possible value of 4𝑘 is 231.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 40491607
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 40491607

In the xy-plane, when the graph of the function , where , is shifted up units, the resulting graph is defined by
the function . If the graph of crosses through the point , where is a constant, what is the value of ?

ID: 40491607 Answer

Correct Answer: 48

Rationale
The correct answer is 48. It's given that in the xy-plane, when the graph of the function 𝑓, where 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥, is shifted up 6
units, the resulting graph is defined by the function 𝑔. Therefore, function 𝑔 can be defined by the equation 𝑔𝑥 = 𝑓𝑥 + 6.
It's given that 𝑓𝑥 = 𝑥 - 1𝑥 + 3𝑥 - 2. Substituting 𝑥 - 1𝑥 + 3𝑥 - 2 for 𝑓𝑥 in the equation 𝑔𝑥 = 𝑓𝑥 + 6 yields
𝑔𝑥 = 𝑥 - 1𝑥 + 3𝑥 - 2 + 6. For the point 4, 𝑏, the value of 𝑥 is 4. Substituting 4 for 𝑥 in the equation 𝑔𝑥 = 𝑥 - 1𝑥 + 3𝑥 - 2 + 6
yields 𝑔4 = 4 - 14 + 34 - 2 + 6, or 𝑔4 = 48. It follows that the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑔𝑥 crosses through the point 4, 48. Therefore,
the value of 𝑏 is 48.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 7902bed0
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 7902bed0

A machine launches a softball from ground level. The softball reaches a maximum height of meters above the
ground at seconds and hits the ground at seconds. Which equation represents the height above ground , in
meters, of the softball seconds after it is launched?

A.

B.

C. msup

D. msup

ID: 7902bed0 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. An equation representing the height above ground ℎ, in meters, of a softball 𝑡 seconds after it is
2
launched by a machine from ground level can be written in the form ℎ = - 𝑎𝑡 - 𝑏 + 𝑐, where 𝑎, 𝑏, and 𝑐 are positive
constants. In this equation, 𝑏 represents the time, in seconds, at which the softball reaches its maximum height of 𝑐
meters above the ground. It's given that this softball reaches a maximum height of 51.84 meters above the ground at 1.8
seconds; therefore, 𝑏 = 1.8 and 𝑐 = 51.84. Substituting 1.8 for 𝑏 and 51.84 for 𝑐 in the equation ℎ = - 𝑎𝑡 - 𝑏2 + 𝑐 yields
2
ℎ = - 𝑎𝑡 - 1.8 + 51.84. It's also given that this softball hits the ground at 3.6 seconds; therefore, ℎ = 0 when 𝑡 = 3.6.
2 2
Substituting 0 for ℎ and 3.6 for 𝑡 in the equation ℎ = - 𝑎𝑡 - 1.8 + 51.84 yields 0 = - 𝑎3.6 - 1.8 + 51.84, which is equivalent
2
to 0 = - 𝑎1.8 + 51.84, or 0 = - 3.24𝑎 + 51.84. Adding 3.24𝑎 to both sides of this equation yields 3.24𝑎 = 51.84. Dividing
2
both sides of this equation by 3.24 yields 𝑎 = 16. Substituting 16 for 𝑎 in the equation ℎ = - 𝑎𝑡 - 1.8 + 51.84 yields
ℎ = - 16𝑡 - 1.82 + 51.84. Therefore, ℎ = - 16𝑡 - 1.82 + 51.84 represents the height above ground ℎ, in meters, of this
softball 𝑡 seconds after it is launched.

Choice A is incorrect. This equation represents a situation where the maximum height is 3.6 meters above the ground at
0 seconds, not 51.84 meters above the ground at 1.8 seconds.

Choice B is incorrect. This equation represents a situation where the maximum height is 51.84 meters above the ground
at 0 seconds, not 1.8 seconds.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 4a0d0399
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 4a0d0399

The function is defined by , where and are constants. In the -plane, the graph of has an
-intercept at and a -intercept at . What is the value of ?

ID: 4a0d0399 Answer

Correct Answer: -324

Rationale
The correct answer is -324. It's given that the function 𝑓 is defined by 𝑓𝑥 = 𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏, where 𝑎 and 𝑏 are constants. It's also
given that the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥 has a y-intercept at 0, - 323. It follows that 𝑓0 = - 323. Substituting 0 for 𝑥 and -323 for 𝑓𝑥
in 𝑓𝑥 = 𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏 yields -323 = 𝑎0 + 𝑏, or -323 = 1 + 𝑏. Subtracting 1 from each side of this equation yields -324 = 𝑏.
Therefore, the value of 𝑏 is -324.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID f2f3fa00
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear equations

in one variable and
systems of equations
in two variables

ID: f2f3fa00

During a 5-second time interval, the average acceleration a, in meters per second
squared, of an object with an initial velocity of 12 meters per second is defined

by the equation , where vf is the final velocity of the object in

meters per second. If the equation is rewritten in the form vf = xa + y, where x
and y are constants, what is the value of x ?

ID: f2f3fa00 Answer

Rationale

The correct answer is 5. The given equation can be rewritten in the form , like so:

It follows that the value of x is 5 and the value of y is 12.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 9654add7
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 9654add7

The revenue , in dollars, that a company receives from sales of a product is

given by the function f above, where x is the unit price, in dollars, of the product.
The graph of in the xy-plane intersects the x-axis at 0 and a. What does
a represent?

A. The revenue, in dollars, when the unit price of the product is $0

B. The unit price, in dollars, of the product that will result in maximum revenue

C. The unit price, in dollars, of the product that will result in a revenue of $0

D. The maximum revenue, in dollars, that the company can make

ID: 9654add7 Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is correct. By definition, the y-value when a function intersects the x-axis is 0. It’s given that the graph of the
function intersects the x-axis at 0 and a, that x is the unit price, in dollars, of a product, and that , where , is
the revenue, in dollars, that a company receives from the sales of the product. Since the value of a occurs when ,a
is the unit price, in dollars, of the product that will result in a revenue of $0.

Choice A is incorrect. The revenue, in dollars, when the unit price of the product is $0 is represented by , when .
Choice B is incorrect. The unit price, in dollars, of the product that will result in maximum revenue is represented by the x-
coordinate of the maximum of f. Choice D is incorrect. The maximum revenue, in dollars, that the company can make is
represented by the y-coordinate of the maximum of f.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 34847f8a
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Equivalent

expressions

ID: 34847f8a

The equation above is true for all , where r and t are positive
constants. What is the value of rt ?

A.

B. 15

C. 20

D. 60

ID: 34847f8a Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is correct. To express the sum of the two rational expressions on the left-hand side of the equation as the single
rational expression on the right-hand side of the equation, the expressions on the left-hand side must have the same

denominator. Multiplying the first expression by results in , and multiplying the second expression

by results in , so the given equation can be rewritten as

, or . Since the
two rational expressions on the left-hand side of the equation have the same denominator as the rational expression on
the right-hand side of the equation, it follows that . Combining like terms on the left-hand
side yields , so it follows that and . Therefore, the value of is .

Choice A is incorrect and may result from an error when determining the sign of either r or t. Choice B is incorrect and
may result from not distributing the 2 and 3 to their respective terms in

. Choice D is incorrect and may result from a calculation error.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 263f9937
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 263f9937
Growth of a Culture of Bacteria
Number of bacteria per
Day
milliliter at end of day

A culture of bacteria is growing at an exponential rate, as shown in the table

above. At this rate, on which day would the number of bacteria per milliliter reach
?

A. Day 5

B. Day 9

C. Day 11

D. Day 12

ID: 263f9937 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. The number of bacteria per milliliter is doubling each day. For example, from day 1 to day 2, the
number of bacteria increased from 2.5 × 105 to 5.0 × 105. At the end of day 3 there are 106 bacteria per milliliter. At the
end of day 4, there will be 106 × 2 bacteria per milliliter. At the end of day 5, there will be (106 × 2) × 2, or 106 × (22)
bacteria per milliliter, and so on. At the end of day d, the number of bacteria will be 106 × (2d – 3). If the number of
bacteria per milliliter will reach 5.12 × 108 at the end of day d, then the equation must hold.

Since 5.12 × 108 can be rewritten as 512 × 106, the equation is equivalent to . Rewriting 512 as 29 gives d –
3 = 9, so d = 12. The number of bacteria per milliliter would reach 5.12 × 108 at the end of day 12.

Choices A, B, and C are incorrect. Given the growth rate of the bacteria, the number of bacteria will not reach 5.12 × 108
per milliliter by the end of any of these days.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 137cc6fd
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Equivalent

expressions

ID: 137cc6fd

For what value of is the given expression equivalent to , where ?

ID: 137cc6fd Answer

Correct Answer: .0177, .0178, 4/225

Rationale
4
The correct answer is 225
. An expression of the form 𝑘√𝑎 , where 𝑘 is an integer greater than 1 and 𝑎 ≥ 0, is equivalent to
1 1 12
𝑎 𝑘 . Therefore, the given expression, where 𝑛 > 1, is equivalent to 70𝑛 5 70𝑛 6 . Applying properties of exponents, this
1 1 1 1 1 1 8
expression can be rewritten as 70𝑛 5 70𝑛 6 · 2 , or 70𝑛 5 70𝑛 3 , which can be rewritten as 70𝑛 5 + 3 , or 70𝑛 15 . It's given that the
2 8
expression 5√70𝑛 6√70𝑛 is equivalent to 70𝑛30𝑥 , where 𝑛 > 1. It follows that 70𝑛 15 is equivalent to 70𝑛30𝑥 . Therefore,
8 8 4
15
= 30𝑥. Dividing both sides of this equation by 30 yields 450 = 𝑥, or 225 = 𝑥. Thus, the value of 𝑥 for which the given
30𝑥 4
expression is equivalent to 70𝑛 , where 𝑛 > 1, is 225
. Note that 4/225, .0177, .0178, 0.017, and 0.018 are examples of
ways to enter a correct answer.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 6ce95fc8
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear equations

in one variable and
systems of equations
in two variables

ID: 6ce95fc8

Which of the following is a solution to

the equation above?

A. 2

B.

C.

D.

ID: 6ce95fc8 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale

Choice D is correct. A quadratic equation in the form , where a, b, and c are constants, can be solved

using the quadratic formula: . Subtracting from both sides of the given equation yields

. Applying the quadratic formula, where , , and , yields

. This can be rewritten as . Since , or , the

equation can be rewritten as . Dividing 2 from both the numerator and denominator yields or

. Of these two solutions, only is present among the choices. Thus, the correct choice is D.

Choice A is incorrect and may result from a computational or conceptual error. Choice B is incorrect and may result from

using instead of as the quadratic formula. Choice C is incorrect and

may result from rewriting as instead of .
Question Difficulty: Hard
Question ID 4dd4efcf
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 4dd4efcf

In the given quadratic function, and are constants. The graph of in the xy-plane is a parabola that opens
upward and has a vertex at the point , where and are constants. If and , which of the
following must be true?

A. I only

B. II only

C. I and II

D. Neither I nor II

ID: 4dd4efcf Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. It's given that the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥 in the xy-plane is a parabola with vertex ℎ, 𝑘. If 𝑓-9 = 𝑓3, then for
the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥, the point with an x-coordinate of -9 and the point with an x-coordinate of 3 have the same y-
coordinate. In the xy-plane, a parabola is a symmetric graph such that when two points have the same y-coordinate,
these points are equidistant from the vertex, and the x-coordinate of the vertex is halfway between the x-coordinates of
these two points. Therefore, for the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥, the points with x-coordinates -9 and 3 are equidistant from the
-9 + 3
vertex, ℎ, 𝑘, and ℎ is halfway between -9 and 3. The value that is halfway between -9 and 3 is 2
, or -3. Therefore,
2
ℎ = - 3. The equation defining 𝑓 can also be written in vertex form, 𝑓𝑥 = 𝑎𝑥 - ℎ + 𝑘. Substituting -3 for ℎ in this equation
yields 𝑓𝑥 = 𝑎𝑥 - -32 + 𝑘, or 𝑓𝑥 = 𝑎𝑥 + 32 + 𝑘. This equation is equivalent to 𝑓𝑥 = 𝑎𝑥2 + 6𝑥 + 9 + 𝑘, or
𝑓𝑥 = 𝑎𝑥2 + 6𝑎𝑥 + 9𝑎 + 𝑘. Since 𝑓𝑥 = 𝑎𝑥2 + 4𝑥 + 𝑐, it follows that 6𝑎 = 4 and 9𝑎 + 𝑘 = 𝑐. Dividing both sides of the
4 2 2
equation 6𝑎 = 4 by 6 yields 𝑎 = 6 , or 𝑎 = 3 . Since 3
< 1, it's not true that 𝑎 ≥ 1. Therefore, statement II isn't true.
2 2
Substituting for 𝑎 in the equation 9𝑎 + 𝑘 = 𝑐 yields 9 + 𝑘 = 𝑐, or 6 + 𝑘 = 𝑐. Subtracting 6 from both sides of this
3 3
equation yields 𝑘 = 𝑐 - 6. If 𝑘 < 0, then 𝑐 - 6 < 0, or 𝑐 < 6. Since 𝑐 could be any value less than 6, it's not necessarily true
that 𝑐 < 0. Therefore, statement I isn't necessarily true. Thus, neither I nor II must be true.

Choice A is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID f5aa5040
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear equations

in one variable and
systems of equations
in two variables

ID: f5aa5040

In the xy-plane, a line with equation for some constant intersects a parabola at exactly one point. If the
parabola has equation , what is the value of ?

ID: f5aa5040 Answer

Correct Answer: 20.25, 81/4

Rationale
81 𝑐
The correct answer is 4
. The given linear equation is 2𝑦 = 𝑐. Dividing both sides of this equation by 2 yields 𝑦 = 2 .
𝑐 𝑐
Substituting for 𝑦 in the equation of the parabola yields = - 2𝑥2 + 9𝑥. Adding 2𝑥2 and -9𝑥 to both sides of this
2 2
𝑐
equation yields 2𝑥2 - 9𝑥 + = 0. Since it’s given that the line and the parabola intersect at exactly one point, the equation
2
𝑐
2𝑥2 - 9𝑥 + 2
= 0 must have exactly one solution. An equation of the form 𝐴𝑥2 + 𝐵𝑥 + 𝐶 = 0, where 𝐴, 𝐵, and 𝐶 are
𝑐
constants, has exactly one solution when the discriminant, 𝐵2 - 4𝐴𝐶, is equal to 0. In the equation 2𝑥2 - 9𝑥 + = 0, where
2
𝑐 2 𝑐 2 𝑐
𝐴 = 2, 𝐵 = - 9, and 𝐶 = 2
, the discriminant is -9 - 42 2 . Setting the discriminant equal to 0 yields -9 - 42 2 = 0, or
81
81 - 4𝑐 = 0. Adding 4𝑐 to both sides of this equation yields 81 = 4𝑐. Dividing both sides of this equation by 4 yields 𝑐 = 4
.
Note that 81/4 and 20.25 are examples of ways to enter a correct answer.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 2992ac30
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 2992ac30

The function models the population, in thousands, of a certain city years after . According to the model, the
population is predicted to increase by every months. What is the value of ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 2992ac30 Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is correct. It’s given that the function 𝑃 models the population, in thousands, of a certain city 𝑡 years after 2003.
The value of the base of the given exponential function, 1.04, corresponds to an increase of 4% for every increase of 1 in
6 6 4
the exponent, 4 𝑡. If the exponent is equal to 0, then 4 𝑡 = 0. Multiplying both sides of this equation by 6
yields 𝑡 = 0. If the
6 4 4 2
exponent is equal to 1, then 𝑡 = 1. Multiplying both sides of this equation by yields 𝑡 = , or 𝑡 = . Therefore, the
4 6 6 3
2
population is predicted to increase by 4% every 3
of a year. It’s given that the population is predicted to increase by 4%
2 2
every 𝑛 months. Since there are 12 months in a year, 3
of a year is equivalent to 3 12, or 8, months. Therefore, the value of
𝑛 is 8.

Choice B is incorrect. This is the number of months in which the population is predicted to increase by 4% according to
6
the model 𝑃𝑡 = 2601.04𝑡 , not 𝑃𝑡 = 2601.04 4 𝑡 .

Choice C is incorrect. This is the number of months in which the population is predicted to increase by 4% according to
4 6
the model 𝑃𝑡 = 2601.04 6 𝑡 , not 𝑃𝑡 = 2601.04 4 𝑡 .

Choice D is incorrect. This is the number of months in which the population is predicted to increase by 4% according to
1 6
the model 𝑃𝑡 = 2601.04 6 𝑡 , not 𝑃𝑡 = 2601.04 4 𝑡 .

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 841ef26c
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 841ef26c

The function is defined by . For what value of does reach its minimum?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 841ef26c Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is correct. It's given that 𝑔𝑥 = 𝑓𝑥 + 5. Since 𝑓𝑥 = 4𝑥2 + 64𝑥 + 262, it follows that
2 2
𝑓𝑥 + 5 = 4𝑥 + 5 + 64𝑥 + 5 + 262. Expanding the quantity 𝑥 + 5 in this equation yields
𝑓𝑥 + 5 = 4𝑥2 + 10𝑥 + 25 + 64𝑥 + 5 + 262. Distributing the 4 and the 64 yields
𝑓𝑥 + 5 = 4𝑥2 + 40𝑥 + 100 + 64𝑥 + 320 + 262. Combining like terms yields 𝑓𝑥 + 5 = 4𝑥2 + 104𝑥 + 682. Therefore,
2
𝑔𝑥 = 4𝑥2 + 104𝑥 + 682. For a quadratic function defined by an equation of the form 𝑔𝑥 = 𝑎𝑥 - ℎ + 𝑘, where 𝑎, ℎ, and 𝑘
are constants and 𝑎 is positive, 𝑔𝑥 reaches its minimum, 𝑘, when the value of 𝑥 is ℎ. The equation 𝑔𝑥 = 4𝑥2 + 104𝑥 + 682
can be rewritten in this form by completing the square. This equation is equivalent to 𝑔𝑥 = 4𝑥2 + 26 + 682, or
2
𝑔𝑥 = 4𝑥2 + 26𝑥 + 169 - 169 + 682. This equation can be rewritten as 𝑔𝑥 = 4𝑥 + 13 - 169 + 682, or
2 2 2
𝑔𝑥 = 4𝑥 + 13 - 4169 + 682, which is equivalent to 𝑔𝑥 = 4𝑥 + 13 + 6. This equation is in the form 𝑔𝑥 = 𝑎𝑥 - ℎ + 𝑘, where
𝑎 = 4, ℎ = - 13, and 𝑘 = 6. Therefore, 𝑔𝑥 reaches its minimum when the value of 𝑥 is -13.

Choice B is incorrect. This is the value of 𝑥 for which 𝑓𝑥, rather than 𝑔𝑥, reaches its minimum.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice D is incorrect. This is the value of 𝑥 for which 𝑓𝑥 - 5, rather than 𝑓𝑥 + 5, reaches its minimum.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID ea6d05bb
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Equivalent

expressions

ID: ea6d05bb

The expression is equivalent to the expression , where , , and are constants.

What is the value of ?

ID: ea6d05bb Answer

Correct Answer: -419

Rationale
The correct answer is -419. It's given that the expression 3𝑥 - 2319𝑥 + 6 is equivalent to the expression 𝑎𝑥2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐,
where 𝑎, 𝑏, and 𝑐 are constants. Applying the distributive property to the given expression, 3𝑥 - 2319𝑥 + 6, yields
3𝑥19𝑥 + 3𝑥6 - 2319𝑥 - 236, which can be rewritten as 57𝑥2 + 18𝑥 - 437𝑥 - 138. Combining like terms yields
57𝑥2 - 419𝑥 - 138. Since this expression is equivalent to 𝑎𝑥2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐, it follows that the value of 𝑏 is -419.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 09d21d79
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 09d21d79

The graph of is shown, where and are constants. What is the value of ?

ID: 09d21d79 Answer

Correct Answer: -24

Rationale
The correct answer is -24. Since the graph passes through the point 0, - 6, it follows that when the value of 𝑥 is 0, the
2
value of 𝑦 is -6. Substituting 0 for 𝑥 and -6 for 𝑦 in the given equation yields -6 = 20 + 𝑏0 + 𝑐, or -6 = 𝑐. Therefore, the
value of 𝑐 is -6. Substituting -6 for 𝑐 in the given equation yields 𝑦 = 2𝑥2 + 𝑏𝑥 - 6. Since the graph passes through the
point -1, - 8, it follows that when the value of 𝑥 is -1, the value of 𝑦 is -8. Substituting -1 for 𝑥 and -8 for 𝑦 in the equation
𝑦 = 2𝑥2 + 𝑏𝑥 - 6 yields -8 = 2-12 + 𝑏-1 - 6, or -8 = 2 - 𝑏 - 6, which is equivalent to -8 = - 4 - 𝑏. Adding 4 to each side of this
equation yields -4 = - 𝑏. Dividing each side of this equation by -1 yields 4 = 𝑏. Since the value of 𝑏 is 4 and the value of 𝑐
is -6, it follows that the value of 𝑏𝑐 is 4-6, or -24.

Alternate approach: The given equation represents a parabola in the xy-plane with a vertex at -1, - 8. Therefore, the given
2
equation, 𝑦 = 2𝑥2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐, which is written in standard form, can be written in vertex form, 𝑦 = 𝑎𝑥 - ℎ + 𝑘, where ℎ, 𝑘 is
the vertex of the parabola and 𝑎 is the value of the coefficient on the 𝑥2 term when the equation is written in standard
2
form. It follows that 𝑎 = 2. Substituting 2 for 𝑎, -1 for ℎ, and -8 for 𝑘 in this equation yields 𝑦 = 2𝑥 - -1 + -8, or
2
𝑦 = 2𝑥 + 1 - 8. Squaring the binomial on the right-hand side of this equation yields 𝑦 = 2𝑥2 + 2𝑥 + 1 - 8. Multiplying each
term inside the parentheses on the right-hand side of this equation by 2 yields 𝑦 = 2𝑥2 + 4𝑥 + 2 - 8, which is equivalent to
𝑦 = 2𝑥2 + 4𝑥 - 6. From the given equation 𝑦 = 2𝑥2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐, it follows that the value of 𝑏 is 4 and the value of 𝑐 is -6.
Therefore, the value of 𝑏𝑐 is 4-6, or -24.
Question Difficulty: Hard
Question ID 433184f1
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Equivalent

expressions

ID: 433184f1

Which expression is equivalent to ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 433184f1 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
4 1 4 -1
Choice D is correct. The expression - can be rewritten as + . To add the two terms of this expression,
4𝑥 - 5 𝑥+1 4𝑥 - 5 𝑥+1
𝑥+1 4 𝑥 + 14
the terms can be rewritten with a common denominator. Since 𝑥+1
= 1, the expression 4𝑥 - 5
can be rewritten as 𝑥 + 14𝑥 - 5
.
4𝑥 - 5 -1 4𝑥 - 5-1 4 -1
Since 4𝑥 - 5
= 1, the expression 𝑥 + 1 can be rewritten as 4𝑥 - 5𝑥 + 1 . Therefore, the expression 4𝑥 - 5 + 𝑥 + 1 can be rewritten
𝑥 + 14 4𝑥 - 5-1 𝑥 + 14 + 4𝑥 - 5-1
as 𝑥 + 14𝑥 - 5 + 4𝑥 - 5𝑥 + 1 , which is equivalent to 𝑥 + 14𝑥 - 5 . Applying the distributive property to each term of the
4𝑥 + 4 + -4𝑥 + 5 4𝑥 + -4𝑥 + 4 + 5 9
numerator yields 𝑥 + 14𝑥 - 5 , or 𝑥 + 14𝑥 - 5 . Adding like terms in the numerator yields 𝑥 + 14𝑥 - 5 .

Choice A is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID d135f4bf
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: d135f4bf

The function is defined by . In the xy-plane, the graph of is the result of

translating the graph of up units. What is the value of ?

ID: d135f4bf Answer

Correct Answer: 76

Rationale
The correct answer is 76. It's given that the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑔𝑥 is the result of translating the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥 up 4 units in
the xy-plane. It follows that the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑔𝑥 is the same as the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥 + 4. Substituting 𝑔𝑥 for 𝑦 in the
equation 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥 + 4 yields 𝑔𝑥 = 𝑓𝑥 + 4. It's given that 𝑓𝑥 = 𝑥 - 6𝑥 - 2𝑥 + 6. Substituting 𝑥 - 6𝑥 - 2𝑥 + 6 for 𝑓𝑥 in the
equation 𝑔𝑥 = 𝑓𝑥 + 4 yields 𝑔𝑥 = 𝑥 - 6𝑥 - 2𝑥 + 6 + 4. Substituting 0 for 𝑥 in this equation yields 𝑔0 = 0 - 60 - 20 + 6 + 4,
or 𝑔0 = 76. Thus, the value of 𝑔0 is 76.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID d8789a4c
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Equivalent

expressions

ID: d8789a4c

In the expression above, b and c are positive integers. If the expression is

equivalent to and , which of the following could be the value of c ?

A. 4

B. 6

C. 8

D. 10

ID: d8789a4c Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale

Choice A is correct. If the given expression is equivalent to , then , where x isn’t equal to b.

Multiplying both sides of this equation by yields . Since the right-hand side of this equation
is in factored form for the difference of squares, the value of c must be a perfect square. Only choice A gives a perfect
square for the value of c.

Choices B, C, and D are incorrect. None of these values of c produces a difference of squares. For example, when 6 is

substituted for c in the given expression, the result is . The expression can’t be factored with integer

values, and therefore isn’t equivalent to .

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID d0a53ef5
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear equations

in one variable and
systems of equations
in two variables

ID: d0a53ef5

What is the smallest solution to the given equation?

ID: d0a53ef5 Answer

Correct Answer: -3

Rationale
2
The correct answer is -3. Squaring both sides of the given equation yields 𝑥 - 2 = 3𝑥 + 34, which can be rewritten as
𝑥2 - 4𝑥 + 4 = 3𝑥 + 34. Subtracting 3𝑥 and 34 from both sides of this equation yields 𝑥2 - 7𝑥 - 30 = 0. This quadratic
equation can be rewritten as 𝑥 - 10𝑥 + 3 = 0. According to the zero product property, 𝑥 - 10𝑥 + 3 equals zero when either
𝑥 - 10 = 0 or 𝑥 + 3 = 0. Solving each of these equations for 𝑥 yields 𝑥 = 10 or 𝑥 = - 3. Therefore, the given equation has
two solutions, 10 and -3. Of these two solutions, -3 is the smallest solution to the given equation.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 271ffad7
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 271ffad7

A quadratic function models a projectile's height, in meters, above the ground in terms of the time, in seconds, after it
was launched. The model estimates that the projectile was launched from an initial height of meters above the ground
and reached a maximum height of meters above the ground seconds after the launch. How many seconds after
the launch does the model estimate that the projectile will return to a height of meters?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 271ffad7 Answer

Correct Answer: B
Rationale
Choice B is correct. It's given that a quadratic function models the projectile's height, in meters, above the ground in
terms of the time, in seconds, after it was launched. It follows that an equation representing the model can be written in
2
the form 𝑓𝑥 = 𝑎𝑥 - ℎ + 𝑘, where 𝑓𝑥 is the projectile's estimated height above the ground, in meters, 𝑥 seconds after the
launch, 𝑎 is a constant, and 𝑘 is the maximum height above the ground, in meters, the model estimates the projectile
reached ℎ seconds after the launch. It's given that the model estimates the projectile reached a maximum height of 51.1
meters above the ground 3 seconds after the launch. Therefore, 𝑘 = 51.1 and ℎ = 3. Substituting 51.1 for 𝑘 and 3 for ℎ in
2 2
the equation 𝑓𝑥 = 𝑎𝑥 - ℎ + 𝑘 yields 𝑓𝑥 = 𝑎𝑥 - 3 + 51.1. It's also given that the model estimates that the projectile was
launched from an initial height of 7 meters above the ground. Therefore, when 𝑥 = 0, 𝑓𝑥 = 7. Substituting 0 for 𝑥 and 7
2 2
for 𝑓𝑥 in the equation 𝑓𝑥 = 𝑎𝑥 - 3 + 51.1 yields 7 = 𝑎0 - 3 + 51.1, or 7 = 9𝑎 + 51.1. Subtracting 51.1 from both sides of
this equation yields -44.1 = 9𝑎. Dividing both sides of this equation by 9 yields -4.9 = 𝑎. Substituting -4.9 for 𝑎 in the
2 2 2
equation 𝑓𝑥 = 𝑎𝑥 - 3 + 51.1 yields 𝑓𝑥 = - 4.9𝑥 - 3 + 51.1. Therefore, the equation 𝑓𝑥 = - 4.9𝑥 - 3 + 51.1 models the
projectile's height, in meters, above the ground 𝑥 seconds after it was launched. The number of seconds after the launch
that the model estimates that the projectile will return to a height of 7 meters is the value of 𝑥 when 𝑓𝑥 = 7. Substituting
2 2
7 for 𝑓𝑥 in 𝑓𝑥 = - 4.9𝑥 - 3 + 51.1 yields 7 = - 4.9𝑥 - 3 + 51.1. Subtracting 51.1 from both sides of this equation yields
2 2
-44.1 = - 4.9𝑥 - 3 . Dividing both sides of this equation by -4.9 yields 9 = 𝑥 - 3 . Taking the square root of both sides of
this equation yields two equations: 3 = 𝑥 - 3 and -3 = 𝑥 - 3. Adding 3 to both sides of the equation 3 = 𝑥 - 3 yields 6 = 𝑥.
Adding 3 to both sides of the equation -3 = 𝑥 - 3 yields 0 = 𝑥. Since 0 seconds after the launch represents the time at
which the projectile was launched, 6 must be the number of seconds the model estimates that the projectile will return to
a height of 7 meters.

Alternate approach: It's given that a quadratic function models the projectile's height, in meters, above the ground in
terms of the time, in seconds, after it was launched. It's also given that the model estimates that the projectile was
launched from an initial height of 7 meters above the ground and reached a maximum height of 51.1 meters above the
ground 3 seconds after the launch. Since the model is quadratic, and quadratic functions are symmetric, the model
estimates that for any given height less than the maximum height, the time the projectile takes to travel from the given
height to the maximum height is the same as the time the projectile takes to travel from the maximum height back to the
given height. Thus, since the model estimates the projectile took 3 seconds to travel from 7 meters above the ground to
its maximum height of 51.1 meters above the ground, the model also estimates the projectile will take 3 more seconds to
travel from its maximum height of 51.1 meters above the ground back to 7 meters above the ground. Thus, the model
estimates that the projectile will return to a height of 7 meters 3 seconds after it reaches its maximum height, which is 6
seconds after the launch.

Choice A is incorrect. The model estimates that 3 seconds after the launch, the projectile reached a height of 51.1
meters, not 7 meters.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice D is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID ee857afb
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: ee857afb

The given equation relates the variables and . For what value of does the value of reach its minimum?

ID: ee857afb Answer

Correct Answer: 7

Rationale
The correct answer is 7. When an equation is of the form 𝑦 = 𝑎𝑥2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐, where 𝑎, 𝑏, and 𝑐 are constants, the value of 𝑦
𝑏
reaches its minimum when 𝑥 = - 2𝑎 . Since the given equation is of the form 𝑦 = 𝑎𝑥2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐, it follows that 𝑎 = 1,
-14
𝑏 = - 14, and 𝑐 = 22. Therefore, the value of 𝑦 reaches its minimum when 𝑥 = - , or 𝑥 = 7.
21

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 2c05d312
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear equations

in one variable and
systems of equations
in two variables

ID: 2c05d312

In the given equation, and are positive constants. The product of the solutions to the given equation is , where is
a constant. What is the value of ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 2c05d312 Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is correct. The left-hand side of the given equation is the expression 57𝑥2 + 57𝑏 + 𝑎𝑥 + 𝑎𝑏. Applying the
distributive property to this expression yields 57𝑥2 + 57𝑏𝑥 + 𝑎𝑥 + 𝑎𝑏. Since the first two terms of this expression have a
common factor of 57𝑥 and the last two terms of this expression have a common factor of 𝑎, this expression can be
rewritten as 57𝑥𝑥 + 𝑏 + 𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏. Since the two terms of this expression have a common factor of 𝑥 + 𝑏, it can be rewritten
as 𝑥 + 𝑏57𝑥 + 𝑎. Therefore, the given equation can be rewritten as 𝑥 + 𝑏57𝑥 + 𝑎 = 0. By the zero product property, it
follows that 𝑥 + 𝑏 = 0 or 57𝑥 + 𝑎 = 0. Subtracting 𝑏 from both sides of the equation 𝑥 + 𝑏 = 0 yields 𝑥 = - 𝑏. Subtracting
-𝑎
𝑎 from both sides of the equation 57𝑥 + 𝑎 = 0 yields 57𝑥 = - 𝑎. Dividing both sides of this equation by 57 yields 𝑥 = .
57
-𝑎
Therefore, the solutions to the given equation are -𝑏 and 57
. It follows that the product of the solutions of the given
-𝑎 𝑎𝑏 𝑎𝑏
equation is -𝑏 57 , or 57
. It’s given that the product of the solutions of the given equation is 𝑘𝑎𝑏. It follows that 57
= 𝑘𝑎𝑏,
1
which can also be written as 𝑎𝑏
57
= 𝑎𝑏𝑘. It’s given that 𝑎 and 𝑏 are positive constants. Therefore, dividing both sides of
1 1 1
the equation 𝑎𝑏 = 𝑎𝑏𝑘 by 𝑎𝑏 yields = 𝑘. Thus, the value of 𝑘 is .
57 57 57

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice D is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 1fe32f7d
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear equations

in one variable and
systems of equations
in two variables

ID: 1fe32f7d

In the given equation, is a positive integer. The equation has no real solution. What is the greatest possible value of ?

ID: 1fe32f7d Answer

Correct Answer: 51

Rationale
The correct answer is 51. A quadratic equation of the form 𝑎𝑥2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐 = 0, where 𝑎, 𝑏, and 𝑐 are constants, has no real
2
solution if and only if its discriminant, -4𝑎𝑐 + 𝑏 , is negative. In the given equation, 𝑎 = - 1 and 𝑐 = - 676. Substituting -1
2 2
for 𝑎 and -676 for 𝑐 in this expression yields a discriminant of 𝑏 - 4-1-676, or 𝑏 - 2,704. Since this value must be
2 2
negative, 𝑏 - 2,704 < 0, or 𝑏 < 2,704. Taking the positive square root of each side of this inequality yields 𝑏 < 52. Since
𝑏 is a positive integer, and the greatest integer less than 52 is 51, the greatest possible value of 𝑏 is 51.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID a45ffacb
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: a45ffacb

Function is defined by , where and are constants. In the xy-plane, the graph of
has a y-intercept at . The product of and is . What is the value of ?

ID: a45ffacb Answer

Correct Answer: 5

Rationale
The correct answer is 5. It’s given that 𝑓𝑥 = - 𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏. Substituting -𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏 for 𝑓𝑥 in the equation 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥 - 15 yields
99 99
𝑦 = - 𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏 - 15. It’s given that the y-intercept of the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥 - 15 is 0, - . Substituting 0 for 𝑥 and - for 𝑦 in the
7 7
99 99 99
equation 𝑦 = - 𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏 - 15 yields - 7 = - 𝑎0 + 𝑏 - 15, which is equivalent to - 7 = - 1 + 𝑏 - 15, or - 7 = 𝑏 - 16. Adding 16 to
13 65 65 13
both sides of this equation yields = 𝑏. It’s given that the product of 𝑎 and 𝑏 is , or 𝑎𝑏 = . Substituting for 𝑏 in
7 7 7 7
13 65 13
this equation yields 𝑎7 = 7
. Dividing both sides of this equation by 7
yields 𝑎 = 5.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 821e724e
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 821e724e

The function is defined by , where is a constant. In the xy-plane, the graph of

passes through the point . What is the value of ?

ID: 821e724e Answer

Correct Answer: 336

Rationale
The correct answer is 336. By the zero product property, if 𝑥 + 14𝑡 - 𝑥 = 0, then 𝑥 + 14 = 0, which gives 𝑥 = - 14, or
𝑡 - 𝑥 = 0, which gives 𝑥 = 𝑡. Therefore, 𝑔𝑥 = 0 when 𝑥 = - 14 and when 𝑥 = 𝑡. Since the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑔𝑥 passes through
the point 24, 0, it follows that 𝑔24 = 0, so 𝑡 = 24. Substituting 24 for 𝑡 in the equation 𝑔𝑥 = 𝑥 + 14𝑡 - 𝑥 yields
𝑔𝑥 = 𝑥 + 1424 - 𝑥. The value of 𝑔0 can be calculated by substituting 0 for 𝑥 in this equation, which yields
𝑔0 = 0 + 1424 - 0, or 𝑔0 = 336.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 18e35375
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 18e35375

The function is defined by the given equation. For what value of does reach its minimum?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 18e35375 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. It's given that 𝑓𝑥 = 𝑥 - 14𝑥 + 19, which can be rewritten as 𝑓𝑥 = 𝑥2 + 5𝑥 - 266. Since the coefficient of
the 𝑥2 -term is positive, the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥 in the xy-plane opens upward and reaches its minimum value at its vertex. The
x-coordinate of the vertex is the value of 𝑥 such that 𝑓𝑥 reaches its minimum. For an equation in the form
𝑏
𝑓𝑥 = 𝑎𝑥2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐, where 𝑎, 𝑏, and 𝑐 are constants, the x-coordinate of the vertex is - . For the equation
2𝑎
5 5
𝑓𝑥 = 𝑥2 + 5𝑥 - 266, 𝑎 = 1, 𝑏 = 5, and 𝑐 = - 266. It follows that the x-coordinate of the vertex is - , or - . Therefore, 𝑓𝑥
21 2
5
reaches its minimum when the value of 𝑥 is - .
2

Alternate approach: The value of 𝑥 for the vertex of a parabola is the x-value of the midpoint between the two x-intercepts
of the parabola. Since it’s given that 𝑓𝑥 = 𝑥 - 14𝑥 + 19, it follows that the two x-intercepts of the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥 in the xy-
plane occur when 𝑥 = 14 and 𝑥 = - 19, or at the points 14, 0 and -19, 0. The midpoint between two points, 𝑥1 , 𝑦1 and 𝑥2 , 𝑦2
𝑥 +𝑥 𝑦 +𝑦 14 + -19 0 + 0 5
, is 1 2 , 1 2 . Therefore, the midpoint between 14, 0 and -19, 0 is , , or - , 0. It follows that 𝑓𝑥 reaches its
2 2 2 2 2
5
minimum when the value of 𝑥 is - 2 .

Choice A is incorrect. This is the y-coordinate of the y-intercept of the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥 in the xy-plane.

Choice B is incorrect. This is one of the x-coordinates of the x-intercepts of the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥 in the xy-plane.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID c303ad23
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear equations

in one variable and
systems of equations
in two variables

ID: c303ad23

If , what is the value of ?

ID: c303ad23 Answer

Correct Answer: 5

Rationale
The correct answer is 5. Dividing each side of the given equation by 3 yields 𝑥2 - 6𝑥 - 5 = 0. Adding 5 to each side of this
equation yields 𝑥2 - 6𝑥 = 5. Therefore, if 3𝑥2 - 18𝑥 - 15 = 0, the value of 𝑥2 - 6𝑥 is 5.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID ce508fb0
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: ce508fb0

The functions and are defined by the given equations.

If , where is a constant, what is the value of ?

ID: ce508fb0 Answer

Correct Answer: -4.9, -49/10

Rationale
The correct answer is -4.9. The value of 𝑓-4 is the value of 𝑓𝑥 when 𝑥 = - 4. Substituting -4 for 𝑥 in the equation
2
𝑓𝑥 = 3 + -2𝑥 - 𝑥2 yields 𝑓-4 = 3 + -2-4 - -4 , or 𝑓-4 = 3 + -8, which is equivalent to 𝑓-4 = 3 + 8, or 𝑓-4 = 11. Since it's given
that 𝑓-4 = 𝑐, it follows that 𝑐 = 11 and the value of 𝑔𝑐 is the value of 𝑔11. Substituting 11 for 𝑤 in the equation
-𝑤 -11
𝑔𝑤 = - 𝑤 + 5 yields 𝑔11 = - 11 + 5, or 𝑔11 = -1.1 - 6, which is equivalent to 𝑔11 = 1.1 - 6, or 𝑔11 = - 4.9. Note
𝑤-1 11 - 1
that -4.9 and -49/10 are examples of ways to enter a correct answer.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 74473be4
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear equations

in one variable and
systems of equations
in two variables

ID: 74473be4

Which quadratic equation has no real solutions?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 74473be4 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. The number of solutions to a quadratic equation in the form 𝑎𝑥2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐 = 0, where 𝑎, 𝑏, and 𝑐 are
constants, can be determined by the value of the discriminant, 𝑏2 - 4𝑎𝑐. If the value of the discriminant is greater than
zero, then the quadratic equation has two distinct real solutions. If the value of the discriminant is equal to zero, then the
quadratic equation has exactly one real solution. If the value of the discriminant is less than zero, then the quadratic
equation has no real solutions. For the quadratic equation in choice D, 5𝑥2 - 14𝑥 + 49 = 0, 𝑎 = 5, 𝑏 = - 14, and 𝑐 = 49.
2 2
Substituting 5 for 𝑎, -14 for 𝑏, and 49 for 𝑐 in 𝑏 - 4𝑎𝑐 yields -14 - 4549, or -784. Since -784 is less than zero, it follows
that the quadratic equation 5𝑥2 - 14𝑥 + 49 = 0 has no real solutions.

Choice A is incorrect. The value of the discriminant for this quadratic equation is 392. Since 392 is greater than zero, it
follows that this quadratic equation has two real solutions.

Choice B is incorrect. The value of the discriminant for this quadratic equation is 0. Since zero is equal to zero, it follows
that this quadratic equation has exactly one real solution.

Choice C is incorrect. The value of the discriminant for this quadratic equation is 1,176. Since 1,176 is greater than zero, it
follows that this quadratic equation has two real solutions.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 7bd10ef3
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear equations

in one variable and
systems of equations
in two variables

ID: 7bd10ef3

In the equation above, t is a constant. If the equation has no real solutions, which
of the following could be the value of t ?

A.

B.

C. 1

D. 3

ID: 7bd10ef3 Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale

Choice A is correct. The number of solutions to any quadratic equation in the form , where a, b, and c

are constants, can be found by evaluating the expression , which is called the discriminant. If the value of

is a positive number, then there will be exactly two real solutions to the equation. If the value of is

zero, then there will be exactly one real solution to the equation. Finally, if the value of is negative, then there
will be no real solutions to the equation.

The given equation is a quadratic equation in one variable, where t is a constant. Subtracting t from both

sides of the equation gives . In this form, , , and . The values of t for which the
equation has no real solutions are the same values of t for which the discriminant of this equation is a negative value.
The discriminant is equal to ; therefore, . Simplifying the left side of the inequality
gives . Subtracting 16 from both sides of the inequality and then dividing both sides by 8 gives . Of the
values given in the options, is the only value that is less than . Therefore, choice A must be the correct answer.

Choices B, C, and D are incorrect and may result from a misconception about how to use the discriminant to determine
the number of solutions of a quadratic equation in one variable.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID e11294f9
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear equations

in one variable and
systems of equations
in two variables

ID: e11294f9

The solutions to are and , where . The solutions to are and , where
. The solutions to , where is a constant, are and . What is the value of ?

ID: e11294f9 Answer

Correct Answer: 31

Rationale
The correct answer is 31. Subtracting 7 from both sides of the equation 𝑥2 + 6𝑥 + 7 = 0 yields 𝑥2 + 6𝑥 = -7. To complete
62 2 2 2 2
the square, adding 2
, or 3 , to both sides of this equation yields 𝑥2 + 6𝑥 + 3 = - 7 + 3 , or 𝑥 + 3 = 2. Taking the square
root of both sides of this equation yields 𝑥 + 3 = ± √2 . Subtracting 3 from both sides of this equation yields
𝑥 = - 3 ± √2 . Therefore, the solutions 𝑟 and 𝑠 to the equation 𝑥2 + 6𝑥 + 7 = 0 are -3 - √2 and -3 + √2 . Since 𝑟 < 𝑠, it
follows that 𝑟 = - 3 - √2 and 𝑠 = - 3 + √2 . Subtracting 8 from both sides of the equation 𝑥2 + 8𝑥 + 8 = 0 yields
82 2 2 2
𝑥2 + 8𝑥 = -8. To complete the square, adding , or 4 , to both sides of this equation yields 𝑥2 + 8𝑥 + 4 = - 8 + 4 , or
2
2
𝑥 + 4 = 8. Taking the square root of both sides of this equation yields 𝑥 + 4 = ± √8 , or 𝑥 + 4 = ± 2√2 . Subtracting 4
from both sides of this equation yields 𝑥 = - 4 ± 2√2 . Therefore, the solutions 𝑡 and 𝑢 to the equation 𝑥2 + 8𝑥 + 8 = 0 are
-4 - 2√2 and -4 + 2√2 . Since 𝑡 < 𝑢, it follows that 𝑡 = - 4 - 2√2 and 𝑢 = - 4 + 2√2 . It's given that the solutions to
𝑥2 + 14𝑥 + 𝑐 = 0, where 𝑐 is a constant, are 𝑟 + 𝑡 and 𝑠 + 𝑢. It follows that this equation can be written as
𝑥 - 𝑟 + 𝑡𝑥 - 𝑠 + 𝑢 = 0, which is equivalent to 𝑥2 - 𝑟 + 𝑡 + 𝑠 + 𝑢𝑥 + 𝑟 + 𝑡𝑠 + 𝑢 = 0. Therefore, the value of 𝑐 is 𝑟 + 𝑡𝑠 + 𝑢.
Substituting -3 - √2 for 𝑟, -4 - 2√2 for 𝑡, -3 + √2 for 𝑠, and -4 + 2√2 for 𝑢 in this equation yields
-3 - √2 + -4 - 2√2 -3 + √2 + -4 + 2√2 , which is equivalent to -7 - 3√2 -7 + 3√2 , or -7-7 - 3√2 3√2 , which is equivalent to
49 - 18, or 31. Therefore, the value of 𝑐 is 31.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 03ff48d2
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear equations

in one variable and
systems of equations
in two variables

ID: 03ff48d2

In the given equation, is an integer constant. If the equation has no real solution, what is the least possible value of ?

ID: 03ff48d2 Answer

Correct Answer: 50

Rationale
The correct answer is 50. An equation of the form 𝑎𝑥2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐 = 0, where 𝑎, 𝑏, and 𝑐 are constants, has no real solutions
2
if and only if its discriminant, 𝑏 - 4𝑎𝑐, is negative. Applying the distributive property to the left-hand side of the equation
𝑥𝑘𝑥 - 56 = - 16 yields 𝑘𝑥2 - 56𝑥 = - 16. Adding 16 to each side of this equation yields 𝑘𝑥2 - 56𝑥 + 16 = 0. Substituting 𝑘
2 2
for 𝑎, -56 for 𝑏, and 16 for 𝑐 in 𝑏 - 4𝑎𝑐 yields a discriminant of -56 - 4𝑘16, or 3,136 - 64𝑘. If the given equation has no real
solution, it follows that the value of 3,136 - 64𝑘 must be negative. Therefore, 3,136 - 64𝑘 < 0. Adding 64𝑘 to both sides of
this inequality yields 3,136 < 64𝑘. Dividing both sides of this inequality by 64 yields 49 < 𝑘, or 𝑘 > 49. Since it's given that
𝑘 is an integer, the least possible value of 𝑘 is 50.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 7028c74f
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear equations

in one variable and
systems of equations
in two variables

ID: 7028c74f

What is the sum of the solutions to the given equation?

ID: 7028c74f Answer

Correct Answer: 10.33, 31/3

Rationale
31
The correct answer is 3
. Subtracting 5𝑥 + 7 from each side of the given equation yields 0 = 15𝑥 - 17𝑥 + 7 - 5𝑥 + 7. Since
5𝑥 + 7 is a common factor of each of the terms on the right-hand side of this equation, it can be rewritten as
0 = 5𝑥 + 73𝑥 - 17 - 1. This is equivalent to 0 = 5𝑥 + 73𝑥 - 51 - 1, or 0 = 5𝑥 + 73𝑥 - 52. Dividing both sides of this equation
by 5 yields 0 = 𝑥 + 73𝑥 - 52. Since a product of two factors is equal to 0 if and only if at least one of the factors is 0,
either 𝑥 + 7 = 0 or 3𝑥 - 52 = 0. Subtracting 7 from both sides of the equation 𝑥 + 7 = 0 yields 𝑥 = -7. Adding 52 to both
52
sides of the equation 3𝑥 - 52 = 0 yields 3𝑥 = 52. Dividing both sides of this equation by 3 yields 𝑥 = 3
. Therefore, the
52 52
solutions to the given equation are -7 and . It follows that the sum of the solutions to the given equation is -7 + ,
3 3
21 52 31
which is equivalent to -
3
+
3
, or 3
. Note that 31/3 and 10.33 are examples of ways to enter a correct answer.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID ce579859
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: ce579859

A model estimates that at the end of each year from to , the number of squirrels in a population was
more than the number of squirrels in the population at the end of the previous year. The model estimates that at the end
of , there were squirrels in the population. Which of the following equations represents this model, where is
the estimated number of squirrels in the population years after the end of and ?

A. msup

B. msup

C. msup

D. msup

ID: ce579859 Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is correct. Since the model estimates that the number of squirrels in the population increased by a fixed
𝑝 𝑡
percentage, 150%, each year, the model can be represented by an exponential equation of the form 𝑛 = 𝑎1 + 100 , where
𝑎 is the estimated number of squirrels in the population at the end of 2015, and the model estimates that at the end of
each year, the number is 𝑝% more than the number at the end of the previous year. Since the model estimates that at the
end of each year, the number was 150% more than the number at the end of the previous year, 𝑝 = 150. Substituting 150
𝑝 𝑡 150 𝑡 𝑡 𝑡
for 𝑝 in the equation 𝑛 = 𝑎1 + 100 yields 𝑛 = 𝑎1 + 100 , which is equivalent to 𝑛 = 𝑎1 + 1.5 , or 𝑛 = 𝑎2.5 . It’s given that
the estimated number of squirrels at the end of 2016 was 180. This means that when 𝑡 = 1, 𝑛 = 180. Substituting 1 for 𝑡
𝑡 1
and 180 for 𝑛 in the equation 𝑛 = 𝑎2.5 yields 180 = 𝑎2.5 , or 180 = 2.5𝑎. Dividing each side of this equation by 2.5 yields
𝑡 𝑡
72 = 𝑎. Substituting 72 for 𝑎 in the equation 𝑛 = 𝑎2.5 yields 𝑛 = 722.5 .

Choice A is incorrect. This equation represents a model where at the end of each year, the estimated number of squirrels
was 150% of, not 150% more than, the estimated number at the end of the previous year.

Choice C is incorrect. This equation represents a model where at the end of each year, the estimated number of squirrels
was 150% of, not 150% more than, the estimated number at the end of the previous year, and the estimated number of
squirrels at the end of 2015, not the end of 2016, was 180.

Choice D is incorrect. This equation represents a model where the estimated number of squirrels at the end of 2015, not
the end of 2016, was 180.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 5355c0ef
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Equivalent

expressions

ID: 5355c0ef

The given expression can be rewritten as , where is a constant. What is the value of ?

ID: 5355c0ef Answer

Correct Answer: .09, 9/100

Rationale
The correct answer is .09 . It's given that the expression 0.36𝑥2 + 0.63𝑥 + 1.17 can be rewritten as 𝑎4𝑥2 + 7𝑥 + 13.
Applying the distributive property to the expression 𝑎4𝑥2 + 7𝑥 + 13 yields 4𝑎𝑥2 + 7𝑎𝑥 + 13𝑎. Therefore,
0.36𝑥2 + 0.63𝑥 + 1.17 can be rewritten as 4𝑎𝑥2 + 7𝑎𝑥 + 13𝑎. It follows that in the expressions 0.36𝑥2 + 0.63𝑥 + 1.17 and
4𝑎𝑥2 + 7𝑎𝑥 + 13𝑎, the coefficients of 𝑥2 are equivalent, the coefficients of 𝑥 are equivalent, and the constant terms are
equivalent. Therefore, 0.36 = 4𝑎, 0.63 = 7𝑎, and 1.17 = 13𝑎. Solving any of these equations for 𝑎 yields the value of 𝑎.
Dividing both sides of the equation 0.36 = 4𝑎 by 4 yields 0.09 = 𝑎. Therefore, the value of 𝑎 is 0.09. Note that .09 and
9/100 are examples of ways to enter a correct answer.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 2f51abc2
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 2f51abc2

The function is defined by the given equation. For which of the following values of does ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 2f51abc2 Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is correct. The value of 𝑘 for which 𝑓𝑘 = 3𝑘 can be found by substituting 𝑘 for 𝑥 and 3𝑘 for 𝑓𝑥 in the given
equation, 𝑓𝑥 = 59 - 2𝑥, which yields 3𝑘 = 59 - 2𝑘. For this equation to be true, either -3𝑘 = 59 - 2𝑘 or 3𝑘 = 59 - 2𝑘. Adding
2𝑘 to both sides of the equation -3𝑘 = 59 - 2𝑘 yields -𝑘 = 59. Dividing both sides of this equation by -1 yields 𝑘 = - 59. To
check whether -59 is the value of 𝑘, substituting -59 for 𝑘 in the equation 3𝑘 = 59 - 2𝑘 yields 3-59 = 59 - 2-59, which is
equivalent to -177 = 177, or -177 = 177, which isn't a true statement. Therefore, -59 isn't the value of 𝑘. Adding 2𝑘 to both
59
sides of the equation 3𝑘 = 59 - 2𝑘 yields 5𝑘 = 59. Dividing both sides of this equation by 5 yields 𝑘 = 5
. To check
59 59 59 59
whether 5 is the value of 𝑘, substituting 5
for 𝑘 in the equation 3𝑘 = 59 - 2𝑘 yields 3
5
= 59 - 2 ,
5
which is equivalent to
177 177 177 177 59
= , or = , which is a true statement. Therefore, the value of 𝑘 for which 𝑓𝑘 = 3𝑘 is .
5 5 5 5 5

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice D is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 17d0e87d
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear equations

in one variable and
systems of equations
in two variables

ID: 17d0e87d

The given equation relates the distinct positive real numbers , , and . Which equation correctly expresses in terms
of and ?

A.

B.

C. msup

D. msup

ID: 17d0e87d Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
14𝑥 2√𝑤 + 19 𝑥
Choice C is correct. Dividing each side of the given equation by 2 yields = , or = √𝑤 + 19 . Because it's given
14𝑦 2 𝑦
𝑥2
that each of the variables is positive, squaring each side of this equation yields the equivalent equation 𝑦
= 𝑤 + 19.
𝑥2 𝑥2
Subtracting 19 from each side of this equation yields 𝑦
- 19 = 𝑤, or 𝑤 = 𝑦
- 19.

Choice A is incorrect. This equation isn't equivalent to the given equation.

Choice B is incorrect. This equation isn't equivalent to the given equation.

Choice D is incorrect. This equation isn't equivalent to the given equation.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID c81b6c57
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Equivalent

expressions

ID: c81b6c57

In the expression , p is a constant. This

expression is equivalent to the expression . What is the value

of p ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: c81b6c57 Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is correct. Using the distributive property, the first given expression can be rewritten as 6x2 + 3px + 24 – 16px –
64x + 24, and then rewritten as 6x2 + (3p – 16p – 64)x + 24. Since the expression 6x2 + (3p – 16p – 64)x + 24 is
equivalent to 6x2 – 155x + 24, the coefficients of the x terms from each expression are equivalent to each other; thus 3p
– 16p – 64 = –155. Combining like terms gives –13p – 64 = –155. Adding 64 to both sides of the equation gives –13p =
–71. Dividing both sides of the equation by –13 yields p = 7.

Choice A is incorrect. If p = –3, then the first expression would be equivalent to 6x2 – 25x + 24. Choice C is incorrect. If p
= 13, then the first expression would be equivalent to 6x2 – 233x + 24. Choice D is incorrect. If p = 155, then the first
expression would be equivalent to 6x2 – 2,079x + 24.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 66bce0c1
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear equations

in one variable and
systems of equations
in two variables

ID: 66bce0c1

What is the solution set of the

equation above?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 66bce0c1 Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale

Choice B is correct. Subtracting 4 from both sides of isolates the radical expression on the left side

of the equation as follows: . Squaring both sides of yields . This

equation can be rewritten as a quadratic equation in standard form: . One way to solve this quadratic

equation is to factor the expression by identifying two numbers with a sum of and a product of .
These numbers are and 1. So the quadratic equation can be factored as . It follows that 5 and
are the solutions to the quadratic equation. However, the solutions must be verified by checking whether 5 and satisfy

the original equation, . When , the original equation gives , or

, which is false. Therefore, does not satisfy the original equation. When , the original equation gives

, or , which is true. Therefore, is the only solution to the original equation, and so the
solution set is .

Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because each of these sets contains at least one value that results in a false statement
when substituted into the given equation. For instance, in choice D, when 0 is substituted for x into the given equation, the
result is , or . This is not a true statement, so 0 is not a solution to the given
equation.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 97e50fa2
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear equations

in one variable and
systems of equations
in two variables

ID: 97e50fa2

The graph of the function f, defined by , is shown in

the xy-plane above. If the function g (not shown) is defined by ,
what is one possible value of a such that ?

ID: 97e50fa2 Answer

Rationale

The correct answer is either 2 or 8. Substituting in the definitions for f and g gives and

, respectively. If , then . Subtracting 10 from both sides of

this equation gives . Multiplying both sides by gives . Expanding gives

. Combining the like terms on one side of the equation gives . One way to solve

this equation is to factor by identifying two numbers with a sum of and a product of 16. These
numbers are and , so the quadratic equation can be factored as . Therefore, the possible
values of a are either 2 or 8. Note that 2 and 8 are examples of ways to enter a correct answer.

Alternate approach: Graphically, the condition implies the graphs of the functions and
intersect at . The graph is given, and the graph of may be sketched as a line with y-intercept 10
and a slope of (taking care to note the different scales on each axis). These two graphs intersect at and
.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID ebb717ab
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear equations

in one variable and
systems of equations
in two variables

ID: ebb717ab

In the given equation, is a constant. The equation has no real solutions if . What is the least possible value of ?

ID: ebb717ab Answer

Correct Answer: 289

Rationale
The correct answer is 289. A quadratic equation of the form 𝑎𝑥2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐 = 0, where 𝑎, 𝑏, and 𝑐 are constants, has no real
2
solutions when the value of the discriminant, 𝑏 - 4𝑎𝑐, is less than 0. In the given equation, 𝑥2 - 34𝑥 + 𝑐 = 0, 𝑎 = 1 and
2
𝑏 = - 34. Therefore, the discriminant of the given equation can be expressed as -34 - 41𝑐, or 1,156 - 4𝑐. It follows that
the given equation has no real solutions when 1,156 - 4𝑐 < 0. Adding 4𝑐 to both sides of this inequality yields 1,156 < 4𝑐.
Dividing both sides of this inequality by 4 yields 289 < 𝑐, or 𝑐 > 289. It's given that the equation 𝑥2 - 34𝑥 + 𝑐 = 0 has no
real solutions when 𝑐 > 𝑛. Therefore, the least possible value of 𝑛 is 289.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 9afe2370
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 9afe2370
The population P of a certain city y years after the last census is modeled by the equation below, where r is a constant
and is the population when .

If during this time the population of the city decreases by a fixed percent each
year, which of the following must be true?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 9afe2370 Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is correct. The term (1 + r) represents a percent change. Since the population is decreasing, the percent change
must be between 0% and 100%. When the percent change is expressed as a decimal rather than as a percent, the
percentage change must be between 0 and 1. Because (1 + r) represents percent change, this can be expressed as 0 < 1
+ r < 1. Subtracting 1 from all three terms of this compound inequality results in –1 < r < 0.

Choice A is incorrect. If r < –1, then after 1 year, the population P would be a negative value, which is not possible.
Choices C and D are incorrect. For any value of r > 0, 1 + r > 1, and the exponential function models growth for positive
values of the exponent. This contradicts the given information that the population is decreasing.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 967ef685
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Equivalent

expressions

ID: 967ef685

Which expression is equivalent to , where ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 967ef685 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. Two fractions can be added together when they have a common denominator. Since 𝑘 > 0,
𝑘 42𝑎𝑘𝑘 42𝑎𝑘2
multiplying the second term in the given expression by yields , which is equivalent to . Therefore, the
𝑘 𝑘 𝑘
42𝑎 42𝑎 42𝑎𝑘2 42𝑎 + 42𝑎𝑘2
expression + 42𝑎𝑘 can be written as + which is equivalent to . Since each term in the numerator of
𝑘 𝑘 𝑘 𝑘
42𝑎 + 42𝑎𝑘2 42𝑎1 + 42𝑎𝑘2 42𝑎1 + 𝑘2
this expression has a factor of 42𝑎, the expression can be rewritten as , or , which is
𝑘 𝑘 𝑘
42𝑎 ( 𝑘2 + 1 )
equivalent to .
𝑘

42𝑎 42𝑎
Choice A is incorrect. This expression is equivalent to 𝑘
+ 𝑘
.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

42𝑎
Choice C is incorrect. This expression is equivalent to 𝑘
+ 42𝑎.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID b7c74b73
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: b7c74b73

The function gives the value, in dollars, of a certain piece of equipment after months of use. If the value of the
equipment decreases each year by of its value the preceding year, what is the value of ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: b7c74b73 Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
𝑥
Choice C is correct. For a function of the form 𝑓𝑥 = 𝑎𝑟 𝑘 , where 𝑎, 𝑟, and 𝑘 are constants and 𝑟 < 1, the value of 𝑓𝑥
decreases by 1001 - 𝑟% for every increase of 𝑥 by 𝑘. In the given function, 𝑎 = 5,470, 𝑟 = 0.64, and 𝑘 = 12. Therefore, for
the given function, the value of 𝑓𝑥 decreases by 1001 - 0.64%, or 36%, for every increase of 𝑥 by 12. Since 𝑓𝑥 represents
the value, in dollars, of the equipment after 𝑥 months of use, it follows that the value of the equipment decreases every
12 months by 36% of its value the preceding 12 months. Since there are 12 months in a year, the value of the equipment
decreases each year by 36% of its value the preceding year. Thus, the value of 𝑝 is 36.

Choice A is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice D is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 3d12b1e0
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear equations

in one variable and
systems of equations
in two variables

ID: 3d12b1e0

In the given equation, is a constant. The equation has exactly one solution. What is the value of ?

ID: 3d12b1e0 Answer

Correct Answer: -1

Rationale
The correct answer is -1. A quadratic equation in the form 𝑎𝑥2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐 = 0, where 𝑎, 𝑏, and 𝑐 are constants, has exactly
one solution when its discriminant, 𝑏2 - 4𝑎𝑐, is equal to 0. In the given equation, -16𝑥2 - 8𝑥 + 𝑐 = 0, 𝑎 = - 16 and 𝑏 = - 8.
2 2
Substituting -16 for 𝑎 and -8 for 𝑏 in 𝑏 - 4𝑎𝑐 yields -8 - 4-16𝑐, or 64 + 64𝑐. Since the given equation has exactly one
solution, 64 + 64𝑐 = 0. Subtracting 64 from both sides of this equation yields 64𝑐 = - 64. Dividing both sides of this
equation by 64 yields 𝑐 = - 1. Therefore, the value of 𝑐 is -1.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 2c88af4d
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Equivalent

expressions

ID: 2c88af4d

The expression , where and , is

equivalent to which of the following?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 2c88af4d Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale

Choice D is correct. For and , and are equivalent to and , respectively. Also, and

are equivalent to and , respectively. Therefore, the given expression can be rewritten as .

Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because these choices are not equivalent to the given expression for and .

For example, for and , the value of the given expression is ; the values of the choices, however, are

, , and 1, respectively.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID ffdbcad4
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Equivalent

expressions

ID: ffdbcad4

The expression , where is a constant, can be rewritten as , where , , and are

integer constants. Which of the following must be an integer?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: ffdbcad4 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. It's given that 4𝑥2 + 𝑏𝑥 - 45 can be rewritten as ℎ𝑥 + 𝑘𝑥 + 𝑗. The expression ℎ𝑥 + 𝑘𝑥 + 𝑗 can be
rewritten as ℎ𝑥2 + 𝑗ℎ𝑥 + 𝑘𝑥 + 𝑘𝑗, or ℎ𝑥2 + 𝑗ℎ + 𝑘𝑥 + 𝑘𝑗. Therefore, ℎ𝑥2 + 𝑗ℎ + 𝑘𝑥 + 𝑘𝑗 is equivalent to 4𝑥2 + 𝑏𝑥 - 45. It
-45 45
follows that 𝑘𝑗 = - 45. Dividing each side of this equation by 𝑘 yields 𝑗 = . Since 𝑗 is an integer, - must be an integer.
𝑘 𝑘
45
Therefore, 𝑘
must also be an integer.

Choice A is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 71014fb1
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear equations

in one variable and
systems of equations
in two variables

ID: 71014fb1

How many distinct real solutions does the given equation have?

A. Exactly one

B. Exactly two

C. Infinitely many

D. Zero

ID: 71014fb1 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. Any quantity that is positive or negative in value has a positive value when squared. Therefore, the
left-hand side of the given equation is either positive or zero for any value of 𝑥. Since the right-hand side of the given
equation is negative, there is no value of 𝑥 for which the given equation is true. Thus, the number of distinct real solutions
for the given equation is zero.

Choices A, B, and C are incorrect and may result from conceptual errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 22fd3e1f
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Equivalent

expressions

ID: 22fd3e1f

Which of the following expressions is

equivalent to , for ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 22fd3e1f Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale

Choice D is correct. Since and , the fraction can be written

as . It is given that , so the common factor is not equal to 0. Therefore, the fraction can be

further simplified to .

Choice A is incorrect. The expression is not equivalent to because at , as a value of 1 and

has a value of 0.

Choice B is incorrect and results from omitting the factor x in the factorization of . Choice C is incorrect and may
result from incorrectly factoring as instead of .
Question Difficulty: Hard
Question ID 4dc5c6f9
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear equations

in one variable and
systems of equations
in two variables

ID: 4dc5c6f9

If the given equations are graphed in the xy-plane, at how many points do the graphs of the equations intersect?

A. Exactly one

B. Exactly two

C. Infinitely many

D. Zero

ID: 4dc5c6f9 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. A point 𝑥, 𝑦 is a solution to a system of equations if it lies on the graphs of both equations in the xy-
plane. In other words, a solution to a system of equations is a point 𝑥, 𝑦 at which the graphs intersect. It’s given that the
2
first equation is 𝑦 = 18. Substituting 18 for 𝑦 in the second equation yields 18 = -3𝑥 - 18 + 15. Subtracting 15 from each
2 2
side of this equation yields 3 = -3𝑥 - 18 . Dividing each side of this equation by -3 yields -1 = 𝑥 - 18 . Since the square of
a real number is at least 0, this equation can't have any real solutions. Therefore, the graphs of the equations intersect at
zero points.

Alternate approach: The graph of the second equation is a parabola that opens downward and has a vertex at 18, 15.
Therefore, the maximum value of this parabola occurs when 𝑦 = 15. The graph of the first equation is a horizontal line at
18 on the y-axis, or 𝑦 = 18. Since 18 is greater than 15, or the horizontal line is above the vertex of the parabola, the
graphs of these equations intersect at zero points.

Choice A is incorrect. The graph of 𝑦 = 15, not 𝑦 = 18, and the graph of the second equation intersect at exactly one
point.

Choice B is incorrect. The graph of any horizontal line such that the value of 𝑦 is less than 15, not greater than 15, and the
graph of the second equation intersect at exactly two points.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID a0b4103e
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Equivalent

expressions

ID: a0b4103e

The expression can be rewritten as , where k is a

positive constant. What is the value of k ?

A. 2

B. 6

C.

D.

ID: a0b4103e Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale

Choice D is correct. Factoring out the coefficient , the given expression can be rewritten as . The

expression can be approached as a difference of squares and rewritten as . Therefore, k must

be .

Choice A is incorrect. If k were 2, then the expression given would be rewritten as , which is equivalent to

, not .

Choice B is incorrect. This may result from incorrectly factoring the expression and finding as the factored

form of the expression. Choice C is incorrect. This may result from incorrectly distributing the and rewriting the

expression as .

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 2cd6b22d
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear equations

in one variable and
systems of equations
in two variables

ID: 2cd6b22d

How many distinct real solutions does the given equation have?

A. Exactly one

B. Exactly two

C. Infinitely many

D. Zero

ID: 2cd6b22d Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. The number of solutions of a quadratic equation of the form 𝑎𝑥2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐 = 0, where 𝑎, 𝑏, and 𝑐 are
2
constants, can be determined by the value of the discriminant, 𝑏 - 4𝑎𝑐. If the value of the discriminant is positive, then
the quadratic equation has exactly two distinct real solutions. If the value of the discriminant is equal to zero, then the
quadratic equation has exactly one real solution. If the value of the discriminant is negative, then the quadratic equation
has zero real solutions. In the given equation, 5𝑥2 + 10𝑥 + 16 = 0, 𝑎 = 5, 𝑏 = 10, and 𝑐 = 16. Substituting these values
2 2
for 𝑎, 𝑏, and 𝑐 in 𝑏 - 4𝑎𝑐 yields 10 - 4516, or -220. Since the value of its discriminant is negative, the given equation has
zero real solutions. Therefore, the number of distinct real solutions the given equation has is zero.

Choice A is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID f2d60b99
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: f2d60b99

The function gives a metal ball's height above the ground , in inches, seconds after it
started moving on a track, where . Which of the following is the best interpretation of the vertex of the graph
of in the xy-plane?

A. The metal ball's minimum height was inches above the ground.

B. The metal ball's minimum height was inches above the ground.

C. The metal ball's height was inches above the ground when it started moving.

D. The metal ball's height was inches above the ground when it started moving.

ID: f2d60b99 Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
2
Choice A is correct. The graph of a quadratic equation in the form 𝑦 = 𝑎𝑥 - ℎ + 𝑘, where 𝑎, ℎ, and 𝑘 are positive
1 2
constants, is a parabola that opens upward with vertex ℎ, 𝑘. The given function 𝑓𝑥 = 𝑥 - 7 + 3 is in the form
9
2 1
𝑦 = 𝑎𝑥 - ℎ + 𝑘, where 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥, 𝑎 = , ℎ = 7, and 𝑘 = 3. Therefore, the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥 is a parabola that opens upward
9
with vertex 7, 3. Since the parabola opens upward, the vertex is the lowest point on the graph. It follows that the y-
coordinate of the vertex of the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥 is the minimum value of 𝑓𝑥. Therefore, the minimum value of 𝑓𝑥 is 3. It’s
1
given that 𝑓𝑥 = 𝑥 - 72 + 3 represents the metal ball’s height above the ground, in inches, 𝑥 seconds after it started
9
moving on a track. Therefore, the best interpretation of the vertex of the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥 is that the metal ball’s minimum
height was 3 inches above the ground.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice D is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID e9349667
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear equations

in one variable and
systems of equations
in two variables

ID: e9349667

If and are the two solutions to the system of equations

above, what is the value of ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: e9349667 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. The system of equations can be solved using the substitution method. Solving the second equation
for y gives y = –x – 1. Substituting the expression –x – 1 for y into the first equation gives –x – 1 = x2 + 2x + 1. Adding x +
1 to both sides of the equation yields x2 + 3x + 2 = 0. The left-hand side of the equation can be factored by finding two
numbers whose sum is 3 and whose product is 2, which gives (x + 2)(x + 1) = 0. Setting each factor equal to 0 yields x + 2
= 0 and x + 1 = 0, and solving for x yields x = –2 or x = –1. These values of x can be substituted for x in the equation y = –
x – 1 to find the corresponding y-values: y = –(–2) – 1 = 2 – 1 = 1 and y = –(–1) – 1 = 1 – 1 = 0. It follows that (–2, 1) and
(–1, 0) are the solutions to the given system of equations. Therefore, (x1, y1) = (–2, 1), (x2, y2) = (–1, 0), and y1 + y2 = 1 + 0
= 1.

Choice A is incorrect. The solutions to the system of equations are (x1, y1) = (–2, 1) and (x2, y2) = (–1, 0). Therefore, –3 is
the sum of the x-coordinates of the solutions, not the sum of the y-coordinates of the solutions. Choices B and C are
incorrect and may be the result of computation or substitution errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 1f353a9e
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 1f353a9e

The given function models the number of coupons a company sent to their customers at the end of each year, where
represents the number of years since the end of , and . If is graphed in the ty-plane, which of
the following is the best interpretation of the y-intercept of the graph in this context?

A. The minimum estimated number of coupons the company sent to their customers during the years was .

B. The minimum estimated number of coupons the company sent to their customers during the years was .

C. The estimated number of coupons the company sent to their customers at the end of was .

D. The estimated number of coupons the company sent to their customers at the end of was .

ID: 1f353a9e Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. The y-intercept of a graph in the ty-plane is the point where 𝑡 = 0. For the given function 𝑓, the y-
𝑡
intercept of the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑡 in the ty-plane can be found by substituting 0 for 𝑡 in the equation 𝑦 = 8,0000 . 65 , which
0
gives 𝑦 = 8,0000 . 65 . This is equivalent to 𝑦 = 8,0001, or 𝑦 = 8,000. Therefore, the y-intercept of the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑡 is
0, 8,000. It’s given that the function 𝑓 models the number of coupons a company sent to their customers at the end of
each year. Therefore, 𝑓𝑡 represents the estimated number of coupons the company sent to their customers at the end of
each year. It's also given that 𝑡 represents the number of years since the end of 1998. Therefore, 𝑡 = 0 represents 0 years
since the end of 1998, or the end of 1998. Thus, the best interpretation of the y-intercept of the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑡 is that the
estimated number of coupons the company sent to their customers at the end of 1998 was 8,000.

Choice A is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID b03adde3
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear equations

in one variable and
systems of equations
in two variables

ID: b03adde3

If , what is t
in terms of u ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: b03adde3 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. Multiplying both sides of the given equation by yields . Dividing both sides of

this equation by yields . Adding 2 to both sides of this equation yields , which can be

rewritten as . Since the fractions on the right-hand side of this equation have a common

denominator, adding the fractions yields . Applying the distributive property to the numerator on the

right-hand side of this equation yields , which is equivalent to .

Choices A, B, and C are incorrect and may result from various misconceptions or miscalculations.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 1ce9ffcd
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear equations

in one variable and
systems of equations
in two variables

ID: 1ce9ffcd

In the given equation, is a constant. The equation has exactly one solution. What is the value of ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 1ce9ffcd Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is correct. It's given that the equation -9𝑥2 + 30𝑥 + 𝑐 = 0 has exactly one solution. A quadratic equation of the
2
form 𝑎𝑥2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐 = 0 has exactly one solution if and only if its discriminant, -4𝑎𝑐 + 𝑏 , is equal to zero. It follows that for
2 2
the given equation, 𝑎 = - 9 and 𝑏 = 30. Substituting -9 for 𝑎 and 30 for 𝑏 into 𝑏 - 4𝑎𝑐 yields 30 - 4-9𝑐, or 900 + 36𝑐.
Since the discriminant must equal zero, 900 + 36𝑐 = 0. Subtracting 36𝑐 from both sides of this equation yields
900 = -36𝑐. Dividing each side of this equation by -36 yields -25 = 𝑐. Therefore, the value of 𝑐 is -25.

Choice A is incorrect. If the value of 𝑐 is 3, this would yield a discriminant that is greater than zero. Therefore, the given
equation would have two solutions, rather than exactly one solution.

Choice B is incorrect. If the value of 𝑐 is 0, this would yield a discriminant that is greater than zero. Therefore, the given
equation would have two solutions, rather than exactly one solution.

Choice D is incorrect. If the value of 𝑐 is -53, this would yield a discriminant that is less than zero. Therefore, the given
equation would have no real solutions, rather than exactly one solution.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 104bff62
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear equations

in one variable and
systems of equations
in two variables

ID: 104bff62

In the given equation, is a positive constant. Which of the following is one of the solutions to the given equation?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 104bff62 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. If 𝑥2 - 𝑐2 ≤ 0, then neither side of the given equation is defined and there can be no solution.
𝑐2 𝑥2 𝑐2 𝑥 2 - 𝑐2
Therefore, 𝑥2 - 𝑐2 > 0. Subtracting from both sides of the given equation yields - = 39, or = 39.
√𝑥2 - 𝑐2 √𝑥2 - 𝑐2 √𝑥2 - 𝑐2 √𝑥2 - 𝑐2
2
𝑥 2 - 𝑐2 2 𝑥 2 - 𝑐2 𝑥 2 - 𝑐2 2
Squaring both sides of this equation yields = 39 , or = 39 . Since 𝑥2 - 𝑐2 is positive and, therefore,
√𝑥2 - 𝑐2 𝑥 2 - 𝑐2
𝑥 2 - 𝑐2 𝑥 2 - 𝑐2 𝑥 2 - 𝑐2 2
nonzero, the expression is defined and equivalent to 1. It follows that the equation = 39 can be rewritten
𝑥 2 - 𝑐2 𝑥 2 - 𝑐2
𝑥 2 - 𝑐2 2 2 2 2
as 𝑥 - 𝑐2 = 39 , or
1𝑥2 - 𝑐2 = 39 , which is equivalent to 𝑥2 - 𝑐2 = 39 . Adding 𝑐2 to both sides of this equation yields
𝑥 2 - 𝑐2
2
𝑥2 = 𝑐2 + 39 . Taking the square root of both sides of this equation yields two solutions: 𝑥 = √𝑐2 + 392 and
𝑥 = - √𝑐2 + 392 . Therefore, of the given choices, -√𝑐2 + 392 is one of the solutions to the given equation.

Choice A is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 270cf326
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 270cf326

Which of the following functions has(have) a minimum value at ?

A. I only

B. II only

C. I and II

D. Neither I nor II

ID: 270cf326 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
𝑥
Choice D is correct. A function of the form 𝑓𝑥 = 𝑎𝑏 + 𝑐, where 𝑎 < 0 and 𝑏 > 1, is a decreasing function. Both of the
given functions are of this form; therefore, both are decreasing functions. If a function 𝑓 is decreasing as the value of 𝑥
increases, the corresponding value of 𝑓𝑥 decreases; therefore, the function doesn’t have a minimum value. Thus, neither
of the given functions has a minimum value.

Choice A is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 92f812bb
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 92f812bb

In the xy-plane, a parabola has vertex and intersects the x-axis at two points. If the equation of the parabola is
written in the form , where , , and are constants, which of the following could be the value of
?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 92f812bb Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
2
Choice D is correct. The equation of a parabola in the xy-plane can be written in the form 𝑦 = 𝑎𝑥 - ℎ + 𝑘, where 𝑎 is a
constant and ℎ, 𝑘 is the vertex of the parabola. If 𝑎 is positive, the parabola will open upward, and if 𝑎 is negative, the
parabola will open downward. It’s given that the parabola has vertex 9, - 14. Substituting 9 for ℎ and -14 for 𝑘 in the
equation 𝑦 = 𝑎𝑥 - ℎ2 + 𝑘 gives 𝑦 = 𝑎𝑥 - 92 - 14, which can be rewritten as 𝑦 = 𝑎𝑥 - 9𝑥 - 9 - 14, or 𝑦 = 𝑎𝑥2 - 18𝑥 + 81 - 14.
Distributing the factor of 𝑎 on the right-hand side of this equation yields 𝑦 = 𝑎𝑥2 - 18𝑎𝑥 + 81𝑎 - 14. Therefore, the
equation of the parabola, 𝑦 = 𝑎𝑥2 - 18𝑎𝑥 + 81𝑎 - 14, can be written in the form 𝑦 = 𝑎𝑥2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐, where 𝑎 = 𝑎, 𝑏 = - 18𝑎,
and 𝑐 = 81𝑎 - 14. Substituting -18𝑎 for 𝑏 and 81𝑎 - 14 for 𝑐 in the expression 𝑎 + 𝑏 + 𝑐 yields 𝑎 + -18𝑎 + 81𝑎 - 14, or
64𝑎 - 14. Since the vertex of the parabola, 9, - 14, is below the x-axis, and it’s given that the parabola intersects the x-axis
at two points, the parabola must open upward. Therefore, the constant 𝑎 must have a positive value. Setting the
expression 64𝑎 - 14 equal to the value in choice D yields 64𝑎 - 14 = - 12. Adding 14 to both sides of this equation yields
2
64𝑎 = 2. Dividing both sides of this equation by 64 yields 𝑎 = , which is a positive value. Therefore, if the equation of
64
the parabola is written in the form 𝑦 = 𝑎𝑥2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐, where 𝑎, 𝑏, and 𝑐 are constants, the value of 𝑎 + 𝑏 + 𝑐 could be - 12.

Choice A is incorrect. If the equation of a parabola with a vertex at 9, - 14 is written in the form 𝑦 = 𝑎𝑥2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐, where 𝑎,
𝑏, and 𝑐 are constants and 𝑎 + 𝑏 + 𝑐 = - 23, then the value of 𝑎 will be negative, which means the parabola will open
downward, not upward, and will intersect the x-axis at zero points, not two points.

Choice B is incorrect. If the equation of a parabola with a vertex at 9, - 14 is written in the form 𝑦 = 𝑎𝑥2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐, where 𝑎,
𝑏, and 𝑐 are constants and 𝑎 + 𝑏 + 𝑐 = - 19, then the value of 𝑎 will be negative, which means the parabola will open
downward, not upward, and will intersect the x-axis at zero points, not two points.

Choice C is incorrect. If the equation of a parabola with a vertex at 9, - 14 is written in the form 𝑦 = 𝑎𝑥2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐, where 𝑎,
𝑏, and 𝑐 are constants and 𝑎 + 𝑏 + 𝑐 = - 14, then the value of 𝑎 will be 0, which is inconsistent with the equation of a
parabola.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 7dbd46d9
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear equations

in one variable and
systems of equations
in two variables

ID: 7dbd46d9

The graphs of the equations in the given system of equations intersect at the point in the -plane. What is a
possible value of ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 7dbd46d9 Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is correct. It's given that the graphs of the equations in the given system of equations intersect at the point 𝑥, 𝑦.
Therefore, this intersection point is a solution to the given system. The solution can be found by isolating 𝑦 in each
equation. The given equation 8𝑥 + 𝑦 = - 11 can be rewritten to isolate 𝑦 by subtracting 8𝑥 from both sides of the
equation, which gives 𝑦 = - 8𝑥 - 11. The given equation 2𝑥2 = 𝑦 + 341 can be rewritten to isolate 𝑦 by subtracting 341
from both sides of the equation, which gives 2𝑥2 - 341 = 𝑦. With each equation solved for 𝑦, the value of 𝑦 from one
equation can be substituted into the other, which gives 2𝑥2 - 341 = - 8𝑥 - 11. Adding 8𝑥 and 11 to both sides of this
equation results in 2𝑥2 + 8𝑥 - 330 = 0. Dividing both sides of this equation by 2 results in 𝑥2 + 4𝑥 - 165 = 0. This equation
can be rewritten by factoring the left-hand side, which yields 𝑥 + 15𝑥 - 11 = 0. By the zero-product property, if
𝑥 + 15𝑥 - 11 = 0, then 𝑥 + 15 = 0, or 𝑥 - 11 = 0. It follows that 𝑥 = - 15, or 𝑥 = 11. Since only -15 is given as a choice, a
possible value of 𝑥 is -15.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice D is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 0121a235
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 0121a235

x p(x)

The table above gives selected values of a polynomial function p. Based on the
values in the table, which of the following must be a factor of p ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 0121a235 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. According to the table, when x is or 2, . Therefore, two x-intercepts of the graph of p are
and . Since and are x-intercepts, it follows that and are factors of the
polynomial equation. This is because when , the value of is 0. Similarly, when , the value of is
0. Therefore, the product is a factor of the polynomial function p.

Choice A is incorrect. The factor corresponds to an x-intercept of , which isn’t present in the table. Choice B is
incorrect. The factor corresponds to an x-intercept of , which isn’t present in the table. Choice C is incorrect.
The factors and correspond to x-intercepts and , respectively, which aren’t present in the table.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 158591f0
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear equations

in one variable and
systems of equations
in two variables

ID: 158591f0

What is the sum of the solutions to the given equation?

ID: 158591f0 Answer

Correct Answer: 29/3, 9.666, 9.667

Rationale
29
The correct answer is 3
. Applying the distributive property to the left-hand side of the given equation, 𝑥𝑥 + 1 - 56, yields
𝑥2 + 𝑥 - 56. Applying the distributive property to the right-hand side of the given equation, 4𝑥𝑥 - 7, yields 4𝑥2 - 28𝑥. Thus,
the equation becomes 𝑥2 + 𝑥 - 56 = 4𝑥2 - 28𝑥. Combining like terms on the left- and right-hand sides of this equation
yields 0 = 4𝑥2 - 𝑥2 + -28𝑥 - 𝑥 + 56, or 3𝑥2 - 29𝑥 + 56 = 0. For a quadratic equation in the form 𝑎𝑥2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐 = 0, where 𝑎, 𝑏,
-𝑏 ± √𝑏2 - 4𝑎𝑐
and 𝑐 are constants, the quadratic formula gives the solutions to the equation in the form 𝑥 = 2𝑎
. Substituting 3
29 ± √-292 - 4356
for 𝑎, -29 for 𝑏, and 56 for 𝑐 from the equation 3𝑥2 - 29𝑥 + 56 = 0 into the quadratic formula yields 𝑥 = 23
, or
29 13 29 13 29 13
𝑥= ± . It follows that the solutions to the given equation are + and - . Adding these two solutions gives
6 6 6 6 6 6
29 13 29 13 29 29 29
the sum of the solutions: 6
+
6
+
6
-
6
, which is equivalent to 6
+ ,
6
or 3
. Note that 29/3, 9.666, and 9.667 are
examples of ways to enter a correct answer.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID bba18ecb
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: bba18ecb

When the quadratic function is graphed in the xy-plane, where , its vertex is . One of the x-intercepts
of this graph is . What is the other x-intercept of the graph?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: bba18ecb Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is correct. Since the line of symmetry for the graph of a quadratic function contains the vertex of the graph, the
x-coordinate of the vertex of the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥 is the x-coordinate of the midpoint of its two x-intercepts. The midpoint
𝑥 +𝑥
of two points with x-coordinates 𝑥1 and 𝑥2 has x-coordinate 𝑥𝑚 , where 𝑥𝑚 = 1 2 . It′s given that the vertex is -3, 6 and
2
17
17 17 𝑥1 + 𝑥2 -+ 𝑥2
one of the x-intercepts is - , 0. Substituting -3 for 𝑥𝑚 and - for 𝑥1 in the equation 𝑥𝑚 = yields -3 = 4 .
4 4 2 2
17 17 7
Multiplying each side of this equation by 2 yields -6 = - 4
+ 𝑥2 . Adding
4
to each side of this equation yields - 4 = 𝑥2 .
7
Therefore, the other x-intercept is - , 0.
4

Choice A is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice D is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 70753f99
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 70753f99

The function f is defined by . The graph of f in the xy-plane

is a parabola. Which of the following intervals contains the x-coordinate of the
vertex of the graph of f ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 70753f99 Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is correct. The graph of a quadratic function in the xy-plane is a parabola. The axis of symmetry of the parabola
passes through the vertex of the parabola. Therefore, the vertex of the parabola and the midpoint of the segment
between the two x-intercepts of the graph have the same x-coordinate. Since , the x-coordinate of

the vertex is . Of the shown intervals, only the interval in choice B contains –2. Choices A, C, and D
are incorrect and may result from either calculation errors or misidentification of the graph’s x-intercepts.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID c6e85cd7
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Equivalent

expressions

ID: c6e85cd7

If , what is the value of ?

ID: c6e85cd7 Answer

Correct Answer: .2916, .2917, 7/24

Rationale
7
The correct answer is 24
. An expression of the form 𝑛√𝑎𝑚 , where 𝑚 and 𝑛 are integers greater than 1 and 𝑎 ≥ 0, is
𝑚 3 7
equivalent to 𝑎 𝑛 . Therefore, the expression on the right-hand side of the given equation, √47 , is equivalent to 4 3 . Thus,
7
7 7
48𝑐 = 4 3 . It follows that 8𝑐 = . Dividing both sides of this equation by 8 yields 𝑐 = . Note that 7/24, .2916, .2917, 0.219,
3 24
and 0.292 are examples of ways to enter a correct answer.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID c9417793
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear equations

in one variable and
systems of equations
in two variables

ID: c9417793

What is the sum of the solutions to the given equation?

ID: c9417793 Answer

Correct Answer: 18

Rationale
The correct answer is 18. Subtracting 45 from each side of the given equation yields 𝑥 - 9 = 18. By the definition of
absolute value, if 𝑥 - 9 = 18, then 𝑥 - 9 = 18 or 𝑥 - 9 = - 18. Adding 9 to each side of the equation 𝑥 - 9 = 18 yields 𝑥 = 27.
Adding 9 to each side of the equation 𝑥 - 9 = - 18 yields 𝑥 = - 9. Therefore, the solutions to the given equation are 27 and
-9, and it follows that the sum of the solutions to the given equation is 27 + -9, or 18.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 58dcc59f
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 58dcc59f

A landscaper is designing a rectangular garden. The length of the garden is to be

5 feet longer than the width. If the area of the garden will be 104 square feet,
what will be the length, in feet, of the garden?

ID: 58dcc59f Answer

Rationale
The correct answer is 13. Let w represent the width of the rectangular garden, in feet. Since the length of the garden will
be 5 feet longer than the width of the garden, the length of the garden will be feet. Thus the area of the garden will
be . It is also given that the area of the garden will be 104 square feet. Therefore, , which is

equivalent to . Factoring this equation results in . Therefore, and

. Because width cannot be negative, the width of the garden must be 8 feet. This means the length of the
garden must be feet.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 2d1614a1
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 2d1614a1

The function models the population, in thousands, of a certain city years after . According to the model, the
population is predicted to increase by every months. What is the value of ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 2d1614a1 Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is correct. It's given that the function 𝑃 models the population of the city 𝑡 years after 2005. Since there are 12
18 18
months in a year, 18 months is equivalent to years. Therefore, the expression 𝑥 can represent the number of years in
12 12
4 18
18 18 𝑥
𝑥 18-month periods. Substituting 𝑥 for 𝑡 in the given equation yields 𝑃 𝑥 = 2901.04 6 12 , which is equivalent to
12 12
18
𝑃 𝑥 = 2901.04𝑥 . Therefore, for each 18-month period, the predicted population of the city is 1.04 times, or 104% of, the
12
previous population. This means that the population is predicted to increase by 4% every 18 months.

Choice A is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice B is incorrect. Each year, the predicted population of the city is 1.04 times the previous year's predicted
population, which is not the same as an increase of 1.04%.

Choice D is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 30281058
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear equations

in one variable and
systems of equations
in two variables

ID: 30281058

In the xy-plane, the graph of intersects line p at and ,

where a and b are constants. What is the slope of line p ?

A. 6

B. 2

C.

D.

ID: 30281058 Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale

Choice A is correct. It’s given that the graph of and line p intersect at and . Therefore, the value of y
when is the value of a, and the value of y when is the value of b. Substituting 1 for x in the given equation

yields , or . Similarly, substituting 5 for x in the given equation yields , or .

Therefore, the intersection points are and . The slope of line p is the ratio of the change in y to the change

in x between these two points: , or 6.

Choices B, C, and D are incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors in determining the values of a, b, or
the slope of line p.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 84dd43f8
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 84dd43f8

For the function , , and for each increase in by , the value of decreases by . What is the value of
?

ID: 84dd43f8 Answer

Correct Answer: 3.44, 86/25

Rationale
The correct answer is 3.44. It’s given that 𝑓0 = 86 and that for each increase in 𝑥 by 1, the value of 𝑓𝑥 decreases by 80%.
Because the output of the function decreases by a constant percentage for each 1-unit increase in the value of 𝑥, this
𝑥
relationship can be represented by an exponential function of the form 𝑓𝑥 = 𝑎𝑏 , where 𝑎 represents the initial value of
the function and 𝑏 represents the rate of decay,
expressed as a decimal. Because 𝑓0 = 86, the value of 𝑎 must be 86. Because the value of 𝑓𝑥 decreases by 80% for each
𝑥
1-unit increase in 𝑥, the value of 𝑏 must be ( 1 − 0 . 80 ) , or 0 . 2. Therefore, the function 𝑓 can be defined by 𝑓𝑥 = 860 . 2 .
Substituting 2 for 𝑥 in this function yields 𝑓2 = 860 . 22 , which is equivalent to 𝑓2 = 860 . 04, or 𝑓2 = 3 . 44. Either 3.44 or
86 / 25 may be entered as the correct answer.

Alternate approach: It’s given that 𝑓0 = 86 and that for each increase in 𝑥 by 1, the value of 𝑓𝑥 decreases by 80%.
Therefore, when 𝑥 = 1, the value of 𝑓𝑥 is ( 100 − 80 ) %, or 20%, of 86, which can be expressed as 0 . 2086. Since
0 . 2086 = 17 . 2, the value of 𝑓1 is 17.2. Similarly, when 𝑥 = 2, the value of 𝑓𝑥 is 20% of 17.2, which can be expressed as
0 . 2017 . 2. Since 0 . 2017 . 2 = 3 . 44, the value of 𝑓2 is 3.44. Either 3.44 or 86 / 25 may be entered as the correct answer.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 59d1f4b5
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 59d1f4b5

The equation above models the number of members, M, of a gym t years after
the gym opens. Of the following, which equation models the number of
members of the gym q quarter years after the gym opens?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 59d1f4b5 Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is correct. In 1 year, there are 4 quarter years, so the number of quarter years, q, is 4 times the number of years,

t ; that is, . This is equivalent to , and substituting this into the expression for M in terms of t gives

Choices B and D are incorrect and may be the result of incorrectly using instead of . (Choices B and D are

nearly the same since is equivalent to , which is approximately .) Choice C is incorrect and may
be the result of incorrectly using and unnecessarily dividing 0.02 by 4.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 4fb8a648
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear equations

in one variable and
systems of equations
in two variables

ID: 4fb8a648

A solution to the given system of equations is . What is the greatest possible value of ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 4fb8a648 Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is correct. It's given that 𝑦 = 𝑥 + 9 and 𝑦 = 𝑥2 + 16𝑥 + 63; therefore, it follows that 𝑥 + 9 = 𝑥2 + 16𝑥 + 63. This
equation can be rewritten as 𝑥 + 9 = 𝑥 + 9𝑥 + 7. Subtracting 𝑥 + 9 from both sides of this equation yields
0 = 𝑥 + 9𝑥 + 7 - 𝑥 + 9. This equation can be rewritten as 0 = 𝑥 + 9𝑥 + 7 - 1, or 0 = 𝑥 + 9𝑥 + 6. By the zero product
property, 𝑥 + 9 = 0 or 𝑥 + 6 = 0. Subtracting 9 from both sides of the equation 𝑥 + 9 = 0 yields 𝑥 = - 9. Subtracting 6
from both sides of the equation 𝑥 + 6 = 0 yields 𝑥 = - 6. Therefore, the given system of equations has solutions, 𝑥, 𝑦, that
occur when 𝑥 = - 9 and 𝑥 = - 6. Since -6 is greater than -9, the greatest possible value of 𝑥 is -6.

Choice B is incorrect. This is the negative of the greatest possible value of 𝑥 when 𝑦 = 0 for the second equation in the
given system of equations.

Choice C is incorrect. This is the value of 𝑦 when 𝑥 = 0 for the first equation in the given system of equations.

Choice D is incorrect. This is the value of 𝑦 when 𝑥 = 0 for the second equation in the given system of equations.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 01668cd6
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 01668cd6

The functions and are defined by the given equations, where . Which of the following equations displays, as a
constant or coefficient, the maximum value of the function it defines, where ?

A. I only

B. II only

C. I and II

D. Neither I nor II

ID: 01668cd6 Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is correct. Functions 𝑓 and 𝑔 are both exponential functions with a base of 0.40. Since 0.40 is less than 1,
functions 𝑓 and 𝑔 are both decreasing exponential functions. This means that 𝑓𝑥 and 𝑔𝑥 decrease as 𝑥 increases. Since
𝑓𝑥 and 𝑔𝑥 decrease as 𝑥 increases, the maximum value of each function occurs at the least value of 𝑥 for which the
function is defined. It's given that functions 𝑓 and 𝑔 are defined for 𝑥 ≥ 0. Therefore, the maximum value of each function
0+3 3
occurs at 𝑥 = 0. Substituting 0 for 𝑥 in the equation defining 𝑓 yields 𝑓0 = 330.4 , which is equivalent to 𝑓0 = 330.4 ,
or 𝑓0 = 2.112. Therefore, the maximum value of 𝑓 is 2.112. Since the equation 𝑓𝑥 = 330.4𝑥 + 3 doesn't display the value
2.112, the equation defining 𝑓 doesn't display the maximum value of 𝑓. Substituting 0 for 𝑥 in the equation defining 𝑔
0-2 1 1
yields 𝑔0 = 330.160.4 , which can be rewritten as 𝑔0 = 330.16 2 , or 𝑔0 = 330.16 , which is equivalent to 𝑔0 = 33.
0.16
0.4
𝑥-2
Therefore, the maximum value of 𝑔 is 33. Since the equation 𝑔𝑥 = 330.160.4 displays the value 33, the equation
defining 𝑔 displays the maximum value of 𝑔. Thus, only equation II displays, as a constant or coefficient, the maximum
value of the function it defines.

Choice A is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice D is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 95eeeb5b
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 95eeeb5b

The function is defined by , where , , and are constants. The graph of in the xy-
plane passes through the points and . If is an integer greater than , which of the following could be the
value of ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 95eeeb5b Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is correct. It's given that the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥 in the xy-plane passes through the points 7, 0 and -3, 0. It follows
that when the value of 𝑥 is either 7 or -3, the value of 𝑓𝑥 is 0. It's also given that the function 𝑓 is defined by
𝑓𝑥 = 𝑎𝑥2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐, where 𝑎, 𝑏, and 𝑐 are constants. It follows that the function 𝑓 is a quadratic function and, therefore,
may be written in factored form as 𝑓𝑥 = 𝑎𝑥 - 𝑢𝑥 - 𝑣, where the value of 𝑓𝑥 is 0 when 𝑥 is either 𝑢 or 𝑣. Since the value of 𝑓𝑥
is 0 when the value of 𝑥 is either 7 or -3, and the value of 𝑓𝑥 is 0 when the value of 𝑥 is either 𝑢 or 𝑣, it follows that 𝑢 and 𝑣
are equal to 7 and -3. Substituting 7 for 𝑢 and -3 for 𝑣 in the equation 𝑓𝑥 = 𝑎𝑥 - 𝑢𝑥 - 𝑣 yields 𝑓𝑥 = 𝑎𝑥 - 7𝑥 - -3, or
𝑓𝑥 = 𝑎𝑥 - 7𝑥 + 3. Distributing the right-hand side of this equation yields 𝑓𝑥 = 𝑎𝑥2 - 7𝑥 + 3𝑥 - 21, or 𝑓𝑥 = 𝑎𝑥2 - 4𝑎𝑥 - 21𝑎.
Since it's given that 𝑓𝑥 = 𝑎𝑥2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐, it follows that 𝑏 = - 4𝑎. Adding 𝑎 to each side of this equation yields 𝑎 + 𝑏 = - 3𝑎.
Since 𝑎 + 𝑏 = - 3𝑎, if 𝑎 is an integer, the value of 𝑎 + 𝑏 must be a multiple of 3. If 𝑎 is an integer greater than 1, it follows
that 𝑎 ≥ 2. Therefore, -3𝑎 ≤ - 32. It follows that the value of 𝑎 + 𝑏 is less than or equal to -32, or -6. Of the given choices,
only -6 is a multiple of 3 that's less than or equal to -6.

Choice B is incorrect. This is the value of 𝑎 + 𝑏 if 𝑎 is equal to, not greater than, 1.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice D is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 5910bfff
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear equations

in one variable and
systems of equations
in two variables

ID: 5910bfff

The formula above can be used to approximate the dew point D, in degrees
Fahrenheit, given the temperature T, in degrees Fahrenheit, and the relative
humidity of H percent, where . Which of the following expresses the
relative humidity in terms of the temperature and the dew point?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 5910bfff Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale

Choice A is correct. It’s given that . Solving this formula for H expresses the relative humidity in
terms of the temperature and the dew point. Subtracting T from both sides of this equation yields

. Multiplying both sides by yields . Subtracting 100 from both

sides yields . Multiplying both sides by results in the formula .

Choices B, C, and D are incorrect and may result from errors made when rewriting the given formula.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID fbb96bb1
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear equations

in one variable and
systems of equations
in two variables

ID: fbb96bb1

Which of the following are solutions to the given equation, where is a constant and ?

A. I and II only

B. I and III only

C. II and III only

D. I, II, and III

ID: fbb96bb1 Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is correct. Subtracting the expression 𝑥 - 29 from both sides of the given equation yields 0 = 𝑥 - 𝑎𝑥 - 29 - 𝑥 - 29,
which can be rewritten as 0 = 𝑥 - 𝑎𝑥 - 29 + -1𝑥 - 29. Since the two terms on the right-hand side of this equation have a
common factor of 𝑥 - 29, it can be rewritten as 0 = 𝑥 - 29𝑥 - 𝑎 + -1, or 0 = 𝑥 - 29𝑥 - 𝑎 - 1. Since 𝑥 - 𝑎 - 1 is equivalent to
𝑥 - 𝑎 + 1, the equation 0 = 𝑥 - 29𝑥 - 𝑎 - 1 can be rewritten as 0 = 𝑥 - 29𝑥 - 𝑎 + 1. By the zero product property, it follows
that 𝑥 - 29 = 0 or 𝑥 - 𝑎 + 1 = 0. Adding 29 to both sides of the equation 𝑥 - 29 = 0 yields 𝑥 = 29. Adding 𝑎 + 1 to both
sides of the equation 𝑥 - 𝑎 + 1 = 0 yields 𝑥 = 𝑎 + 1. Therefore, the two solutions to the given equation are 29 and 𝑎 + 1.
Thus, only 𝑎 + 1 and 29, not 𝑎, are solutions to the given equation.

Choice A is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice D is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID ad038c19
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Equivalent

expressions

ID: ad038c19

Which of the following is

equivalent to ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: ad038c19 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale

Choice D is correct. The expression can be rewritten as . Using the distributive property, the

expression yields . Combining like terms gives .

Choices A, B, and C are incorrect and may result from errors using the distributive property on the given expression or
combining like terms.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID ef926848
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: ef926848

Square P has a side length of inches. Square Q has a perimeter that is inches greater than the perimeter of square
P. The function gives the area of square Q, in square inches. Which of the following defines ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: ef926848 Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is correct. Let 𝑥 represent the side length, in inches, of square P. It follows that the perimeter of square P is 4𝑥
inches. It's given that square Q has a perimeter that is 176 inches greater than the perimeter of square P. Thus, the
perimeter of square Q is 176 inches greater than 4𝑥 inches, or 4𝑥 + 176 inches. Since the perimeter of a square is 4 times
4𝑥 + 176
the side length of the square, each side length of Q is 4
, or 𝑥 + 44 inches. Since the area of a square is calculated by
2
multiplying the length of two sides, the area of square Q is 𝑥 + 44𝑥 + 44, or 𝑥 + 44 square inches. It follows that function
2
𝑓 is defined by 𝑓𝑥 = 𝑥 + 44 .

Choice B is incorrect. This function represents a square with side lengths 𝑥 + 176 inches.

Choice C is incorrect. This function represents a square with side lengths 176𝑥 + 44 inches.

Choice D is incorrect. This function represents a square with side lengths 176𝑥 + 176 inches.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 77c0cced
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear equations

in one variable and
systems of equations
in two variables

ID: 77c0cced

In the given system of equations, is a constant. The graphs of the equations in the given system intersect at exactly
one point, , in the xy-plane. What is the value of ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 77c0cced Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is correct. It's given that the graphs of the equations in the given system intersect at exactly one point, 𝑥, 𝑦, in
the xy-plane. Therefore, 𝑥, 𝑦 is the only solution to the given system of equations. The given system of equations can be
solved by subtracting the second equation, 𝑦 = 3𝑥 + 𝑎, from the first equation, 𝑦 = 2𝑥2 - 21𝑥 + 64. This yields
𝑦 - 𝑦 = 2𝑥2 - 21𝑥 + 64 - 3𝑥 + 𝑎, or 0 = 2𝑥2 - 24𝑥 + 64 - 𝑎. Since the given system has only one solution, this equation has
only one solution. A quadratic equation in the form 𝑟𝑥2 + 𝑠𝑥 + 𝑡 = 0, where 𝑟, 𝑠, and 𝑡 are constants, has one solution if
and only if the discriminant, 𝑠2 - 4𝑟𝑡, is equal to zero. Substituting 2 for 𝑟, -24 for 𝑠, and -𝑎 + 64 for 𝑡 in the expression
𝑠2 - 4𝑟𝑡 yields -242 - 4264 - 𝑎. Setting this expression equal to zero yields -242 - 4264 - 𝑎 = 0, or 8𝑎 + 64 = 0. Subtracting
64 from both sides of this equation yields 8𝑎 = - 64. Dividing both sides of this equation by 8 yields 𝑎 = - 8. Substituting
-8 for 𝑎 in the equation 0 = 2𝑥2 - 24𝑥 + 64 - 𝑎 yields 0 = 2𝑥2 - 24𝑥 + 64 + 8, or 0 = 2𝑥2 - 24𝑥 + 72. Factoring 2 from the
right-hand side of this equation yields 0 = 2𝑥2 - 12𝑥 + 36. Dividing both sides of this equation by 2 yields
2
0 = 𝑥2 - 12𝑥 + 36, which is equivalent to 0 = 𝑥 - 6𝑥 - 6, or 0 = 𝑥 - 6 . Taking the square root of both sides of this equation
yields 0 = 𝑥 - 6. Adding 6 to both sides of this equation yields 𝑥 = 6.

Choice A is incorrect. This is the value of 𝑎, not 𝑥.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice D is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 635f54ee
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 635f54ee

The surface area of a cube is , where a is a positive constant. Which of

the following gives the perimeter of one face of the cube?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 635f54ee Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale

Choice B is correct. A cube has 6 faces of equal area, so if the total surface area of a cube is , then the area of

one face is . Likewise, the area of one face of a cube is the square of one of its edges; therefore, if the area of one

face is , then the length of one edge of the cube is . Since the perimeter of one face of a cube is four times the

length of one edge, the perimeter is .

Choice A is incorrect because if the perimeter of one face of the cube is , then the total surface area of the cube is

, which is not . Choice C is incorrect because if the perimeter of one face of the cube is 4a,

then the total surface area of the cube is , which is not . Choice D is incorrect because if the

perimeter of one face of the cube is 6a, then the total surface area of the cube is , which is not

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 1697ffcf
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear equations

in one variable and
systems of equations
in two variables

ID: 1697ffcf

In the xy-plane, the graph of intersects the graph of at the

points and . What is the value of a ?

ID: 1697ffcf Answer

Rationale

The correct answer is 5. The intersection points of the graphs of and can be found by solving the
system consisting of these two equations. To solve the system, substitute x for y in the first equation. This gives
. Subtracting x from both sides of the equation gives . Factoring out of each term on the
left-hand side of the equation gives . Therefore, the possible values for x are 0 and 5. Since , the two
intersection points are and . Therefore, .

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 70fb357b
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 70fb357b

The graph of the given equation in the xy-plane has a y-intercept of . Which of the following equivalent equations
displays the value of as a constant, a coefficient, or the base?

A. msup

B. msup

C. msup

D. msup

ID: 70fb357b Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is correct. The y-intercept of a graph in the xy-plane is the point where 𝑥 = 0. Substituting 0 for 𝑥 in the given
2𝑥 + 2 20 + 2 2
equation, 𝑦 = 576 , yields 𝑦 = 576 , which is equivalent to 𝑦 = 576 , or 𝑦 = 331,776. Therefore, the graph of the
given equation in the xy-plane has a y-intercept of 0, 331,776. It follows that 𝑟 = 0 and 𝑠 = 331,776. Thus, the equivalent
𝑥+1
equation 𝑦 = 331,776 displays the value of 𝑠 as the base.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice D is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 20291f47
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Equivalent

expressions

ID: 20291f47

Which expression is equivalent to ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 20291f47 Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
𝑦 + 12 𝑦𝑥 - 8
Choice C is correct. Factoring the denominator in the second term of the given expression gives 𝑥-8
+ 𝑥𝑦𝑥 - 8 . This
𝑥𝑦 𝑥𝑦𝑦 + 12 𝑦𝑥 - 8
expression can be rewritten with common denominators by multiplying the first term by , giving + . Adding
𝑥𝑦 𝑥𝑦𝑥 - 8 𝑥𝑦𝑥 - 8
𝑥𝑦𝑦 + 12 + 𝑦𝑥 - 8 𝑥𝑦2 + 12𝑥𝑦 + 𝑥𝑦 - 8𝑦
these two terms yields . Using the distributive property to rewrite this expression gives .
𝑥𝑦𝑥 - 8 𝑥2 𝑦 - 8𝑥𝑦
𝑥𝑦2 + 13𝑥𝑦 - 8𝑦
Combining the like terms in the numerator of this expression gives .
𝑥2 𝑦 - 8𝑥𝑦

Choice A is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice D is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 42f8e4b4
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Equivalent

expressions

ID: 42f8e4b4

One of the factors of is , where is a positive constant. What is the smallest possible value
of ?

ID: 42f8e4b4 Answer

Correct Answer: 8

Rationale
The correct answer is 8. Since each term of the given expression, 2𝑥3 + 42𝑥2 + 208𝑥, has a factor of 2𝑥, the expression
can be rewritten as 2𝑥𝑥2 + 2𝑥21𝑥 + 2𝑥104, or 2𝑥𝑥2 + 21𝑥 + 104. Since the values 8 and 13 have a sum of 21 and a
product of 104, the expression 𝑥2 + 21𝑥 + 104 can be factored as 𝑥 + 8𝑥 + 13. Therefore, the given expression can be
factored as 2𝑥𝑥 + 8𝑥 + 13. It follows that the factors of the given expression are 2, 𝑥, 𝑥 + 8, and 𝑥 + 13. Of these factors,
only 𝑥 + 8 and 𝑥 + 13 are of the form 𝑥 + 𝑏, where 𝑏 is a positive constant. Therefore, the possible values of 𝑏 are 8 and
13. Thus, the smallest possible value of 𝑏 is 8.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID de39858a
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: de39858a

The function is defined by , where and are positive constants. The graph of in the -
plane passes through the points ( , ) and ( , ). What is the value of ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: de39858a Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is correct. It’s given that the function ℎ is defined by ℎ𝑥 = 𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏 and that the graph of 𝑦 = ℎ ( 𝑥 ) in the xy-plane
325
passes through the points 0, 10 and -2, 36
. Substituting 0 for 𝑥 and 10 for ℎ𝑥 in the equation ℎ𝑥 = 𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏 yields
325
10 = 𝑎0 + 𝑏, or 10 = 1 + 𝑏. Subtracting 1 from both sides of this equation yields 9 = 𝑏. Substituting -2 for 𝑥 and for ℎ𝑥
36
325 1
in the equation ℎ ( 𝑥 ) = 𝑎 + 9 yields
𝑥
= 𝑎 + 9. Subtracting 9 from both sides of this equation yields
-2
= 𝑎 , which
-2
36 36
2
can be rewritten as 𝑎 = 36. Taking the square root of both sides of this equation yields 𝑎 = 6 and 𝑎 = - 6, but because
it’s given that 𝑎 is a positive constant, 𝑎 must equal 6. Because the value of 𝑎 is 6 and the value of 𝑏 is 9, the value of 𝑎𝑏 is
( 6 ) ( 9 ) , or 54.

Choice A is incorrect and may result from finding the value of 𝑎-2 𝑏 rather than the value of 𝑎𝑏.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice D is incorrect and may result from correctly finding the value of 𝑎 as 6, but multiplying it by the y-value in the first
ordered pair rather than by the value of 𝑏.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID d41cf4d3
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: d41cf4d3

The function is defined by , where and are constants. In the xy-plane, the graph of
passes through the point , and . Which of the following must be true?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: d41cf4d3 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. It's given that 𝑓24 < 0. Substituting 24 for 𝑓𝑥 in the equation 𝑓𝑥 = 𝑎√𝑥 + 𝑏 yields 𝑓24 = 𝑎√24 + 𝑏 .
Therefore, 𝑎√24 + 𝑏 < 0. Since √24 + 𝑏 can't be negative, it follows that 𝑎 < 0. It's also given that the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥
passes through the point -24, 0. It follows that when 𝑥 = - 24, 𝑓𝑥 = 0. Substituting -24 for 𝑥 and 0 for 𝑓𝑥 in the equation
𝑓𝑥 = 𝑎√𝑥 + 𝑏 yields 0 = 𝑎√-24 + 𝑏 . By the zero product property, either 𝑎 = 0 or √-24 + 𝑏 = 0. Since 𝑎 < 0, it follows that
√24 + 𝑏 = 0. Squaring both sides of this equation yields -24 + 𝑏 = 0. Adding 24 to both sides of this equation yields
𝑏 = 24. Since 𝑎 < 0 and 𝑏 is 24, it follows that 𝑎 < 𝑏 must be true.

Choice A is incorrect. The value of 𝑓0 is 𝑎√𝑏 , which must be negative.

Choice B is incorrect. The value of 𝑓0 is 𝑎√𝑏 , which could be -24, but doesn't have to be.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 1178f2df
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 1178f2df

The table shows three values of and their corresponding values of , where and is a quadratic
function. What is the y-coordinate of the y-intercept of the graph of in the xy-plane?

ID: 1178f2df Answer

Correct Answer: -2112

Rationale
The correct answer is -2,112. It's given that 𝑓 is a quadratic function. It follows that 𝑓 can be defined by an equation of the
2
form 𝑓𝑥 = 𝑎𝑥 - ℎ + 𝑘, where 𝑎, ℎ, and 𝑘 are constants. It's also given that the table shows three values of 𝑥 and their
2 2
corresponding values of 𝑦, where 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥 + 4. Substituting 𝑎𝑥 - ℎ + 𝑘 for 𝑓𝑥 in this equation yields 𝑦 = 𝑎𝑥 - ℎ + 𝑘 + 4.
This equation represents a quadratic relationship between 𝑥 and 𝑦, where 𝑘 + 4 is either the maximum or the minimum
value of 𝑦, which occurs when 𝑥 = ℎ. For quadratic relationships between 𝑥 and 𝑦, the maximum or minimum value of 𝑦
occurs at the value of 𝑥 halfway between any two values of 𝑥 that have the same corresponding value of 𝑦. The table
shows that x-values of 21 and 25 correspond to the same y-value, -8. Since 23 is halfway between 21 and 25, the
maximum or minimum value of 𝑦 occurs at an x-value of 23. The table shows that when 𝑥 = 23, 𝑦 = 8. It follows that
ℎ = 23 and 𝑘 + 4 = 8. Subtracting 4 from both sides of the equation 𝑘 + 4 = 8 yields 𝑘 = 4. Substituting 23 for ℎ and 4 for
2 2 2
𝑘 in the equation 𝑦 = 𝑎𝑥 - ℎ + 𝑘 + 4 yields 𝑦 = 𝑎𝑥 - 23 + 4 + 4, or 𝑦 = 𝑎𝑥 - 23 + 8. The value of 𝑎 can be found by
substituting any x-value and its corresponding y-value for 𝑥 and 𝑦, respectively, in this equation. Substituting 25 for 𝑥 and
2 2
-8 for 𝑦 in this equation yields -8 = 𝑎25 - 23 + 8, or -8 = 𝑎2 + 8. Subtracting 8 from both sides of this equation yields
2
-16 = 𝑎2 , or -16 = 4𝑎. Dividing both sides of this equation by 4 yields -4 = 𝑎. Substituting -4 for 𝑎, 23 for ℎ, and 4 for 𝑘 in
2 2
the equation 𝑓𝑥 = 𝑎𝑥 - ℎ + 𝑘 yields 𝑓𝑥 = - 4𝑥 - 23 + 4. The y-intercept of the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥 in the xy-plane is the point
2 2
on the graph where 𝑥 = 0. Substituting 0 for 𝑥 in the equation 𝑓𝑥 = - 4𝑥 - 23 + 4 yields 𝑓0 = - 40 - 23 + 4, or
2
𝑓0 = - 4-23 + 4. This is equivalent to 𝑓0 = - 2,112, so the y-intercept of the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥 in the xy-plane is 0, - 2,112.
Thus, the y-coordinate of the y-intercept of the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥 in the xy-plane is -2,112.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 84e8cc72
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 84e8cc72

A quadratic function models the height, in feet, of an object above the ground in terms of the time, in seconds, after the
object is launched off an elevated surface. The model indicates the object has an initial height of feet above the
ground and reaches its maximum height of feet above the ground seconds after being launched. Based on the
model, what is the height, in feet, of the object above the ground seconds after being launched?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 84e8cc72 Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is correct. It's given that a quadratic function models the height, in feet, of an object above the ground in terms
of the time, in seconds, after the object is launched off an elevated surface. This quadratic function can be defined by an
2
equation of the form 𝑓𝑥 = 𝑎𝑥 - ℎ + 𝑘, where 𝑓𝑥 is the height of the object 𝑥 seconds after it was launched, and 𝑎, ℎ, and 𝑘
are constants such that the function reaches its maximum value, 𝑘, when 𝑥 = ℎ. Since the model indicates the object
reaches its maximum height of 1,034 feet above the ground 8 seconds after being launched, 𝑓𝑥 reaches its maximum
value, 1,034, when 𝑥 = 8. Therefore, 𝑘 = 1,034 and ℎ = 8. Substituting 8 for ℎ and 1,034 for 𝑘 in the function
𝑓𝑥 = 𝑎𝑥 - ℎ2 + 𝑘 yields 𝑓𝑥 = 𝑎𝑥 - 82 + 1,034. Since the model indicates the object has an initial height of 10 feet above the
2
ground, the value of 𝑓𝑥 is 10 when 𝑥 = 0. Substituting 0 for 𝑥 and 10 for 𝑓𝑥 in the equation 𝑓𝑥 = 𝑎𝑥 - 8 + 1,034 yields
2
10 = 𝑎0 - 8 + 1,034, or 10 = 64𝑎 + 1,034. Subtracting 1,034 from both sides of this equation yields 64𝑎 = - 1,024.
Dividing both sides of this equation by 64 yields 𝑎 = - 16. Therefore, the model can be represented by the equation
2 2
𝑓𝑥 = - 16𝑥 - 8 + 1,034. Substituting 10 for 𝑥 in this equation yields 𝑓10 = - 1610 - 8 + 1,034, or 𝑓10 = 970. Therefore,
based on the model, 10 seconds after being launched, the height of the object above the ground is 970 feet.

Choice A is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice D is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 12e7faf8
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Equivalent

expressions

ID: 12e7faf8

The equation is true for all , where a and d

are integers. What is the value of ?

A.

B.

C. 0

D. 1

ID: 12e7faf8 Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale

Choice C is correct. Since the expression can be factored as , the given equation can be

rewritten as . Since , is also not equal to 0, so both the numerator and

denominator of can be divided by . This gives . Equating the coefficient of x on each

side of the equation gives . Equating the constant terms gives . The sum is .

Choice A is incorrect and may result from incorrectly simplifying the equation. Choices B and D are incorrect. They are
the values of d and a, respectively, not .

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 89fc23af
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Equivalent

expressions

ID: 89fc23af

Which of the following expressions is

equivalent to ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 89fc23af Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. The numerator of the given expression can be rewritten in terms of the denominator, , as

follows: , which is equivalent to . So the given expression is

equivalent to . Since the given expression is defined for , the

expression can be rewritten as .

Long division can also be used as an alternate approach. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect and may result from errors
made when dividing the two polynomials or making use of structure.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 911c415b
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Equivalent

expressions

ID: 911c415b

The expression above can be written in the form , where a and b are
constants. What is the value of ?

ID: 911c415b Answer

Rationale
The correct answer is 6632. Applying the distributive property to the expression yields
. Then adding together and and collecting like terms

results in . This is written in the form , where and . Therefore

.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID b74f2feb
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Equivalent

expressions

ID: b74f2feb

The expression is equivalent to , where and are positive constants and . What is the
value of ?

ID: b74f2feb Answer

Correct Answer: 361/8, 45.12, 45.13

Rationale
361 𝑚
The correct answer is 8
. The rational exponent property is 𝑛√𝑦𝑚 = 𝑦 𝑛 , where 𝑦 > 0, 𝑚 and 𝑛 are integers, and 𝑛 > 0.
5 8 5 45 8 1 1
This property can be applied to rewrite the given expression 6 √35 𝑥45 · √28 𝑥 as 63 5 𝑥 5 2 8 𝑥 8 , or 63𝑥9 2𝑥 8 . This expression
1
can be rewritten by multiplying the constants, which gives 36𝑥9 𝑥 8 . The multiplication exponent property is 𝑦𝑛 · 𝑦𝑚 = 𝑦𝑛 + 𝑚
1 1 73
, where 𝑦 > 0. This property can be applied to rewrite the expression 36𝑥9 𝑥 8 as 36𝑥9 + 8 , or 36𝑥 8 . Therefore,
5 8 73 5 8 73
6 √35 𝑥45 · √28 𝑥 = 36𝑥 8 . It's given that 6 √35 𝑥45 · √28 𝑥 is equivalent to 𝑎𝑥𝑏 ; therefore, 𝑎 = 36 and 𝑏 = . It follows that
8
73 288 73
𝑎 + 𝑏 = 36 + . Finding a common denominator on the right-hand side of this equation gives 𝑎 + 𝑏 = + , or
8 8 8
361
𝑎+𝑏= 8
. Note that 361/8, 45.12, and 45.13 are examples of ways to enter a correct answer.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 5edc8c98
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear equations

in one variable and
systems of equations
in two variables

ID: 5edc8c98

In the given equation, and are positive constants. The sum of the solutions to the given equation is , where
is a constant. What is the value of ?

ID: 5edc8c98 Answer

Correct Answer: .0625, 1/16

Rationale
1
The correct answer is 16
. Let 𝑝 and 𝑞 represent the solutions to the given equation. Then, the given equation can be
rewritten as 64𝑥 - 𝑝𝑥 - 𝑞 = 0, or 64𝑥2 - 64𝑝 + 𝑞 + 𝑝𝑞 = 0. Since this equation is equivalent to the given equation, it follows
16𝑎 + 4𝑏 1
that -16𝑎 + 4𝑏 = - 64𝑝 + 𝑞. Dividing both sides of this equation by -64 yields 64
= 𝑝 + 𝑞, or
16
4𝑎 + 𝑏 = 𝑝 + 𝑞.
1
Therefore, the sum of the solutions to the given equation, 𝑝 + 𝑞, is equal to 4𝑎 + 𝑏. Since it's given that the sum of the
16
1
solutions to the given equation is 𝑘4𝑎 + 𝑏, where 𝑘 is a constant, it follows that 𝑘 = 16
. Note that 1/16, .0625, 0.062, and
0.063 are examples of ways to enter a correct answer.

Alternate approach: The given equation can be rewritten as 64𝑥2 - 44𝑎 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑎𝑏 = 0, where 𝑎 and 𝑏 are positive
𝑎𝑏
constants. Dividing both sides of this equation by 4 yields 16𝑥2 - 4𝑎 + 𝑏𝑥 + = 0. The solutions for a quadratic equation
4
in the form 𝐴𝑥2 + 𝐵𝑥 + 𝐶 = 0, where 𝐴, 𝐵, and 𝐶 are constants, can be calculated using the quadratic formula,
-𝐵 + √𝐵2 - 4𝐴𝐶 -𝐵 - √𝐵2 - 4𝐴𝐶
𝑥=
2𝐴
and 𝑥 = 2𝐴
. It follows that the sum of the solutions to a quadratic equation in the form
2
-𝐵 + √𝐵 - 4𝐴𝐶 -𝐵 - √𝐵2 - 4𝐴𝐶 -𝐵 + - 𝐵 + √𝐵2 - 4𝐴𝐶 - √𝐵2 - 4𝐴𝐶
𝐴𝑥2 + 𝐵𝑥 + 𝐶 = 0 is + , which can be rewritten as , which is equivalent to
2𝐴 2𝐴 2𝐴
-2𝐵 𝐵 𝑎𝑏 𝑎𝑏
2𝐴
, or - 𝐴 . In the equation 16𝑥2 - 4𝑎 + 𝑏𝑥 + 4 = 0, 𝐴 = 16, 𝐵 = - 4𝑎 + 𝑏, and 𝐶 = 4 . Substituting 16 for 𝐴 and -4𝑎 + 𝑏 for 𝐵
𝐵 -4𝑎 + 𝑏 1 1
in - yields - , which can be rewritten as 4𝑎 + 𝑏. Thus, the sum of the solutions to the given equation is 4𝑎 + 𝑏.
𝐴 16 16 16
1
Since it's given that the sum of the solutions to the given equation is 𝑘4𝑎 + 𝑏, where 𝑘 is a constant, it follows that 𝑘 = 16
.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID cd358b89
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: cd358b89

Function is defined by . Function is defined by . The graph of

in the xy-plane has x-intercepts at , , and , where , , and are distinct constants. What is the
value of ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: cd358b89 Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is correct. It's given that 𝑔𝑥 = 𝑓𝑥 - 1. Since 𝑓𝑥 = 𝑥 + 6𝑥 + 5𝑥 + 1, it follows that 𝑓𝑥 - 1 = 𝑥 - 1 + 6𝑥 - 1 + 5𝑥 - 1 + 1
. Combining like terms yields 𝑓𝑥 - 1 = 𝑥 + 5𝑥 + 4𝑥. Therefore, 𝑔𝑥 = 𝑥𝑥 + 5𝑥 + 4. The x-intercepts of a graph in the xy-
plane are the points where 𝑦 = 0. The x-coordinates of the x-intercepts of the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑔𝑥 in the xy-plane can be
found by solving the equation 0 = 𝑥𝑥 + 5𝑥 + 4. Applying the zero product property to this equation yields three
equations: 𝑥 = 0, 𝑥 + 5 = 0, and 𝑥 + 4 = 0. Solving each of these equations for 𝑥 yields 𝑥 = 0, 𝑥 = - 5, and 𝑥 = - 4,
respectively. Therefore, the x-intercepts of the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑔𝑥 are 0, 0, -5, 0, and -4, 0. It follows that the values of 𝑎, 𝑏,
and 𝑐 are 0, -5, and -4. Thus, the value of 𝑎 + 𝑏 + 𝑐 is 0 + -5 + -4, which is equal to -9.

Choice A is incorrect. This is the value of 𝑎 + 𝑏 + 𝑐 if 𝑔𝑥 = 𝑓𝑥 + 1.

Choice C is incorrect. This is the value of 𝑎 + 𝑏 + 𝑐 - 1 if 𝑔𝑥 = 𝑥 - 6𝑥 - 5𝑥 - 1.

Choice D is incorrect. This is the value of 𝑎 + 𝑏 + 𝑐 if 𝑓𝑥 = 𝑥 - 6𝑥 - 5𝑥 - 1.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID f89e1d6f
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Equivalent

expressions

ID: f89e1d6f

If , which of the following is equivalent to the

expression ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: f89e1d6f Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is correct. Factoring –1 from the second, third, and fourth terms gives x2 – c2 – 2cd – d2 = x2 – (c2 + 2cd + d2).
The expression c2 + 2cd + d2 is the expanded form of a perfect square: c2 + 2cd + d2 = (c + d)2. Therefore, x2 – (c2 + 2cd
+ d2) = x2 – (c + d)2. Since a = c + d, x2 – (c + d)2 = x2 – a2. Finally, because x2 – a2 is the difference of squares, it can be
expanded as x2 – a2 = (x + a)(x – a).

Choices A and B are incorrect and may be the result of making an error in factoring the difference of squares x2 – a2.
Choice D is incorrect and may be the result of incorrectly combining terms.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID ff2e5c76
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear equations

in one variable and
systems of equations
in two variables

ID: ff2e5c76

What is the sum of the solutions to the given equation?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: ff2e5c76 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
40 2
Choice D is correct. Adding 10 to each side of the given equation yields 𝑥2 - 40𝑥 = 10. To complete the square, adding 2
, or 202 , to each side of this equation yields 𝑥2 - 40𝑥 + 202 = 10 + 202 , or 𝑥 - 202 = 410. Taking the square root of each
side of this equation yields 𝑥 - 20 = ± √410 . Adding 20 to each side of this equation yields 𝑥 = 20 ± √410 . Therefore, the
solutions to the given equation are 𝑥 = 20 + √410 and 𝑥 = 20 - √410 . The sum of these solutions is
20 + √410 + 20 - √410 , or 40.

Choice A is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 4b642eef
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 4b642eef

The total distance d, in meters, traveled by an object moving in a straight line can
be modeled by a quadratic function that is defined in terms of t, where t is the
time in seconds. At a time of 10.0 seconds, the total distance traveled by the
object is 50.0 meters, and at a time of 20.0 seconds, the total distance traveled
by the object is 200.0 meters. If the object was at a distance of 0 meters when
, then what is the total distance traveled, in meters, by the object after 30.0
seconds?

ID: 4b642eef Answer

Rationale

The correct answer is 450. The quadratic equation that models this situation can be written in the form ,
where a, b, and c are constants. It’s given that the distance, d, the object traveled was 0 meters when seconds.

These values can be substituted into the equation to solve for a, b, and c: . Therefore, , and it

follows that . Since it’s also given that d is 50 when t is 10 and d is 200 when t is 20, these values for d and t

can be substituted to create a system of two linear equations: and , or

and . Subtracting the first equation from the second equation yields , or .

Substituting for a in the first equation and solving for b yields . Therefore, the equation that represents this

situation is . Evaluating this function when seconds yields , or meters.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 2c5c22d0
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear equations

in one variable and
systems of equations
in two variables

ID: 2c5c22d0

How many solutions are there to the

system of equations above?

A. There are exactly 4 solutions.

B. There are exactly 2 solutions.

C. There is exactly 1 solution.

D. There are no solutions.

ID: 2c5c22d0 Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is correct. The second equation of the system can be rewritten as . Substituting for y in the

first equation gives . This equation can be solved as shown below:

Substituting 1 for x in the equation gives . Therefore, is the only solution to the system of
equations.

Choice A is incorrect. In the xy-plane, a parabola and a line can intersect at no more than two points. Since the graph of
the first equation is a parabola and the graph of the second equation is a line, the system cannot have more than 2
solutions. Choice B is incorrect. There is a single ordered pair that satisfies both equations of the system. Choice D
is incorrect because the ordered pair satisfies both equations of the system.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID fc3dfa26
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear equations

in one variable and
systems of equations
in two variables

ID: fc3dfa26

What value of x satisfies the

equation above?

A.

B.

C.

D. 3

ID: fc3dfa26 Answer

Correct Answer: C
Rationale

Choice C is correct. Each fraction in the given equation can be expressed with the common denominator .

Multiplying by yields , and multiplying by yields . Therefore, the given

equation can be written as . Multiplying each fraction by the denominator results in the

equation , or . This equation can be solved by setting a quadratic expression

equal to 0, then solving for x. Subtracting from both sides of this equation yields . The expression

can be factored, resulting in the equation . By the zero product property, or

. To solve for x in , 1 can be added to both sides of the equation, resulting in . Dividing both

sides of this equation by 2 results in . Solving for x in yields . However, this value of x would
result in the second fraction of the original equation having a denominator of 0. Therefore, is an extraneous

solution. Thus, the only value of x that satisfies the given equation is .

Choice A is incorrect and may result from solving but not realizing that this solution is extraneous because it
would result in a denominator of 0 in the second fraction. Choice B is incorrect and may result from a sign error when
solving for x. Choice D is incorrect and may result from a calculation error.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 6d9e01a2
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 6d9e01a2

The given equation defines the function . For what value of does reach its minimum?

ID: 6d9e01a2 Answer

Correct Answer: 25/4, 6.25

Rationale
25 2
The correct answer is 4
. The given equation can be rewritten in the form 𝑓𝑥 = 𝑎𝑥 - ℎ + 𝑘, where 𝑎, ℎ, and 𝑘 are
constants. When 𝑎 > 0, ℎ is the value of 𝑥 for which 𝑓𝑥 reaches its minimum. The given equation can be rewritten as
50 50 50 2 50 2
𝑓𝑥 = 4𝑥2 - 𝑥 + 126, which is equivalent to 𝑓𝑥 = 4𝑥2 - 𝑥 + - + 126. This equation can be rewritten as
4 4 8 8
50 2 50 2 50 2 50 2 25 2 121 25
𝑓𝑥 = 4𝑥 - - + 126, or 𝑓𝑥 = 4𝑥 - - 4 + 126, which is equivalent to 𝑓𝑥 = 4𝑥 - - . Therefore, ℎ = , so the
8 8 8 8 4 4 4
25
value of 𝑥 for which 𝑓𝑥 reaches its minimum is . Note that 25/4 and 6.25 are examples of ways to enter a correct
4
answer.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 9f2ecade
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 9f2ecade

The function h is defined above, where a, b, and c are integer constants. If the
zeros of the function are 6, and 7, what is the value of c ?

ID: 9f2ecade Answer

Rationale
The correct answer is 210. Since , 6, and 7 are zeros of the function, the function can be rewritten as

. Expanding the function yields . Thus, , , and

. Therefore, the value of c is 210.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 6011a3f8
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear equations

in one variable and
systems of equations
in two variables

ID: 6011a3f8

In the given equation, is a constant. For which of the following values of will the equation have more than one real
solution?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 6011a3f8 Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is correct. A quadratic equation of the form 𝑎𝑥2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐 = 0, where 𝑎, 𝑏, and 𝑐 are constants, has either no real
solutions, exactly one real solution, or exactly two real solutions. That is, for the given equation to have more than one
2
real solution, it must have exactly two real solutions. When the value of the discriminant, or 𝑏 - 4𝑎𝑐, is greater than 0, the
given equation has exactly two real solutions. In the given equation, 64𝑥2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 25 = 0, 𝑎 = 64 and 𝑐 = 25. Therefore,
2 2
the given equation has exactly two real solutions when 𝑏 - 46425 > 0, or 𝑏 - 6,400 > 0. Adding 6,400 to both sides of
this inequality yields 𝑏2 > 6,400. Taking the square root of both sides of 𝑏2 > 6,400 yields two possible inequalities:
𝑏 < - 80 or 𝑏 > 80. Of the choices, only choice A satisfies 𝑏 < - 80 or 𝑏 > 80.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice D is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 0e61101e
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 0e61101e

The function is defined by the given equation. If , which of the following equations defines the
function ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 0e61101e Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
𝑥 𝑥 𝑥+2
Choice B is correct. It’s given that 𝑓𝑥 = 94 and 𝑔𝑥 = 𝑓𝑥 + 2. Substituting 𝑥 + 2 for 𝑥 in 𝑓𝑥 = 94 gives 𝑓𝑥 + 2 = 94 .
𝑥 2 𝑥
Rewriting this equation using properties of exponents gives 𝑓𝑥 + 2 = 94 4 , which is equivalent to 𝑓𝑥 + 2 = 94 16.
𝑥 𝑥
Multiplying 9 and 16 in this equation gives 𝑓𝑥 + 2 = 1444 . Since 𝑔𝑥 = 𝑓𝑥 + 2, 𝑔𝑥 = 1444 .

Choice A is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice D is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID e117d3b8
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Equivalent

expressions

ID: e117d3b8

If a and c are positive numbers, which of the following is

equivalent to ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: e117d3b8 Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is correct. Using the property that for positive numbers x and y, with x = (a + c)3 and y = a + c, it

follows that . By rewriting (a + c)4 as ((a + c)2)2, it is possible to simplify the square

root expression as follows: .

Choice A is incorrect and may be the result of . Choice B is incorrect and may be the result of
incorrectly rewriting (a + c)2 as a2 + c2. Choice D is incorrect and may be the result of incorrectly applying properties of
exponents.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 7a6d06bf
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 7a6d06bf

A rectangle has an area of square inches. The length of the rectangle is inches less than times the width of the
rectangle. What is the width of the rectangle, in inches?

ID: 7a6d06bf Answer

Correct Answer: 5

Rationale
The correct answer is 5. Let 𝑥 represent the width, in inches, of the rectangle. It's given that the length of the rectangle is
4 inches less than 7 times its width, or 7𝑥 - 4 inches. The area of a rectangle is equal to its width multiplied by its length.
Multiplying the width, 𝑥 inches, by the length, 7𝑥 - 4 inches, yields 𝑥7𝑥 - 4 square inches. It’s given that the rectangle has
an area of 155 square inches, so it follows that 𝑥7𝑥 - 4 = 155, or 7𝑥2 - 4𝑥 = 155. Subtracting 155 from both sides of this
equation yields 7𝑥2 - 4𝑥 - 155 = 0. Factoring the left-hand side of this equation yields 7𝑥 + 31𝑥 - 5 = 0. Applying the zero
31
product property to this equation yields two solutions: 𝑥 = - 7
and 𝑥 = 5. Since 𝑥 is the rectangle’s width, in inches,
which must be positive, the value of 𝑥 is 5. Therefore, the width of the rectangle, in inches, is 5.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 04bbce67
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 04bbce67

The function is defined by the given equation. For what value of does reach its minimum?

ID: 04bbce67 Answer

Correct Answer: -7

Rationale
2
The correct answer is -7. For a quadratic function defined by an equation of the form 𝑓𝑥 = 𝑎𝑥 - ℎ + 𝑘, where 𝑎, ℎ, and 𝑘
are constants and 𝑎 > 0, the function reaches its minimum when 𝑥 = ℎ. In the given function, 𝑎 = 1, ℎ = - 7, and 𝑘 = 4.
Therefore, the value of 𝑥 for which 𝑓𝑥 reaches its minimum is -7.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID dcf63c94
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: dcf63c94

The function is defined by the given equation. If , which of the following equations defines function
?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: dcf63c94 Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is correct. It's given that 𝑓 ( 𝑥 ) = 272 ( 2 ) 𝑥 and ℎ ( 𝑥 ) = 𝑓 ( 𝑥 - 4 ) . Substituting 𝑥 - 4 for 𝑥 in 𝑓 ( 𝑥 ) = 272 ( 2 ) 𝑥
yields 𝑓𝑥 - 4 = 2722𝑥 - 4 . Substituting ℎ𝑥 for 𝑓𝑥 - 4 in this equation yields ℎ𝑥 = 2722𝑥 - 4 . Using the properties of exponents,
2722𝑥 2722𝑥
the function ℎ ( 𝑥 ) = 272 ( 2 ) 𝑥 - 4 can be rewritten as ℎ𝑥 = , which is equivalent to ℎ𝑥 = , or ℎ ( 𝑥 ) = 17 ( 2 ) 𝑥 .
24 16
Therefore, of the given choices, an equation that defines function ℎ is ℎ ( 𝑥 ) = 17 ( 2 ) 𝑥 .

Choice B is incorrect. This equation defines function ℎ if ℎ ( 𝑥 ) = 𝑓 ( 𝑥 - 2 ) , not ℎ ( 𝑥 ) = 𝑓 ( 𝑥 - 4 ) .

Choice C is incorrect. This equation defines function ℎ if ℎ ( 𝑥 ) = 𝑓 ( 4𝑥 ) , not ℎ ( 𝑥 ) = 𝑓 ( 𝑥 - 4 ) .

Choice D is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 6f5540a5
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 6f5540a5

Kao measured the temperature of a cup of hot chocolate placed in a room with a
constant temperature of 70 degrees Fahrenheit (°F). The temperature of the hot
chocolate was 185°F at 6:00 p.m. when it started cooling. The temperature of
the hot chocolate was 156°F at 6:05 p.m. and 135°F at 6:10 p.m. The hot
chocolate’s temperature continued to decrease. Of the following functions,
which best models the temperature , in degrees Fahrenheit, of Kao’s hot
chocolate m minutes after it started cooling?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 6f5540a5 Answer

Correct Answer: D
Rationale
Choice D is correct. The hot chocolate cools from 185°F over time, never going lower than the room temperature, 70°F.
Since the base of the exponent in this function, 0.75, is less than 1, decreases as time increases. Using the

function, the temperature, in °F, at 6:00 p.m. can be estimated as and is equal to . The

temperature, in °F, at 6:05 p.m. can be estimated as and is equal to , which is approximately

156°F. Finally, the temperature, in °F, at 6:10 p.m. can be estimated as and is equal to , which is
approximately 135°F. Since these three given values of m and their corresponding values for can be verified using

the function , this is the best function out of the given choices to model the temperature of
Kao’s hot chocolate after m minutes.

Choice A is incorrect because the base of the exponent, , results in the value of increasing over time rather
than decreasing. Choice B is incorrect because when m is large enough, becomes less than 70. Choice C is
incorrect because the maximum value of at 6:00 p.m. is 115°F, not 185°F.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 9cb9beec
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear equations

in one variable and
systems of equations
in two variables

ID: 9cb9beec

In the given system of equations, is a positive constant. The system has exactly one distinct real solution. What is the
value of ?

ID: 9cb9beec Answer

Correct Answer: 14.5, 29/2

Rationale
29
The correct answer is 2
. According to the first equation in the given system, the value of 𝑦 is -1.5. Substituting -1.5 for 𝑦
in the second equation in the given system yields -1.5 = 𝑥2 + 8𝑥 + 𝑎. Adding 1.5 to both sides of this equation yields
0 = 𝑥2 + 8𝑥 + 𝑎 + 1.5. If the given system has exactly one distinct real solution, it follows that 0 = 𝑥2 + 8𝑥 + 𝑎 + 1.5 has
exactly one distinct real solution. A quadratic equation in the form 0 = 𝑝𝑥2 + 𝑞𝑥 + 𝑟, where 𝑝, 𝑞, and 𝑟 are constants, has
exactly one distinct real solution if and only if the discriminant, 𝑞2 - 4𝑝𝑟, is equal to 0. The equation 0 = 𝑥2 + 8𝑥 + 𝑎 + 1.5
is in this form, where 𝑝 = 1, 𝑞 = 8, and 𝑟 = 𝑎 + 1.5. Therefore, the discriminant of the equation 0 = 𝑥2 + 8𝑥 + 𝑎 + 1.5 is
82 - 41𝑎 + 1.5, or 58 - 4𝑎. Setting the discriminant equal to 0 to solve for 𝑎 yields 58 - 4𝑎 = 0. Adding 4𝑎 to both sides of
58 29
this equation yields 58 = 4𝑎. Dividing both sides of this equation by 4 yields 4
= 𝑎, or
2
= 𝑎. Therefore, if the given
29
system of equations has exactly one distinct real solution, the value of 𝑎 is . Note that 29/2 and 14.5 are examples of
2
ways to enter a correct answer.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 1073d70c
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 1073d70c

At the time that an article was first featured on the home page of a news website, there were comments on the article.
An exponential model estimates that at the end of each hour after the article was first featured on the home page, the
number of comments on the article had increased by of the number of comments on the article at the end of the
previous hour. Which of the following equations best represents this model, where is the estimated number of
comments on the article hours after the article was first featured on the home page and ?

A. msup

B. msup

C. msup

D. msup

ID: 1073d70c Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. It's given that an exponential model estimates that the number of comments on an article increased
by a fixed percentage at the end of each hour. Therefore, the model can be represented by an exponential equation of the
form 𝐶 = 𝐾𝑎𝑡 , where 𝐶 is the estimated number of comments on the article 𝑡 hours after the article was first featured on
the home page and 𝐾 and 𝑎 are constants. It's also given that when the article was first featured on the home page of the
news website, there were 40 comments on the article. This means that when 𝑡 = 0, 𝐶 = 40. Substituting 0 for 𝑡 and 40 for
𝐶 in the equation 𝐶 = 𝐾𝑎𝑡 yields 40 = 𝐾𝑎0 , or 40 = 𝐾. It's also given that the number of comments on the article at the
end of an hour had increased by 190% of the number of comments on the article at the end of the previous hour.
Multiplying the percent increase by the number of comments on the article at the end of the previous hour yields the
190
number of estimated additional comments the article has on its home page: 40 , or 76 comments. Thus, the estimated
100
number of comments for the following hour is the sum of the comments from the end of the previous hour and the
number of additional comments, which is 40 + 76, or 116. This means that when 𝑡 = 1, 𝐶 = 116. Substituting 1 for 𝑡, 116
for 𝐶, and 40 for 𝐾 in the equation 𝐶 = 𝐾𝑎𝑡 yields 116 = 40𝑎1 , or 116 = 40𝑎. Dividing both sides of this equation by 40
𝑡
yields 2.9 = 𝑎. Substituting 40 for 𝐾 and 2.9 for 𝑎 in the equation 𝐶 = 𝐾𝑎𝑡 yields 𝐶 = 402.9 . Thus, the equation that best
represents this model is 𝐶 = 40 ( 2.9 ) 𝑡 .

Choice A is incorrect. This model represents a situation where the number of comments at the end of each hour
increased by 19% of the number of comments at the end of the previous hour, rather than 190%.

Choice B is incorrect. This model represents a situation where the number of comments at the end of each hour
increased by 90% of the number of comments at the end of the previous hour, rather than 190%.

Choice C is incorrect. This model represents a situation where the number of comments at the end of each hour was 19
times the number of comments at the end of the previous hour, rather than increasing by 190% of the number of
comments at the end of the previous hour.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 1fe10d97
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 1fe10d97

The given function models the population of Lowell years after a census. Which of the following functions best
models the population of Lowell months after the census?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 1fe10d97 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. It’s given that the function 𝑝 models the population of Lowell 𝑡 years after a census. Since there are
𝑚 𝑚
12 months in a year, 𝑚 months after the census is equivalent to 12
years after the census. Substituting 12
for 𝑡 in the
𝑚
𝑡 𝑚
equation 𝑝𝑡 = 90,0001.06 yields 𝑝 = 90,0001.06 . Therefore, the function 𝑟 that best models the population of Lowell
12
12 𝑚
𝑚 months after the census is 𝑟𝑚 = 90,0001.06 12 .

Choice A is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 7355b9d9
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Equivalent

expressions

ID: 7355b9d9

If is a factor of the expression , where and are constants and , what is the value of ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 7355b9d9 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
1 2
Choice D is correct. If 𝑘 - 𝑥 is a factor of the expression -𝑥2 + 29 𝑛𝑘 , then the expression can be written as 𝑘 - 𝑥𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏,
where 𝑎 and 𝑏 are constants. This expression can be rewritten as 𝑎𝑘𝑥 + 𝑏𝑘 - 𝑎𝑥2 - 𝑏𝑥, or -𝑎𝑥2 + 𝑎𝑘 - 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑏𝑘. Since this
1 2 1 2
expression is equivalent to -𝑥2 + 𝑛𝑘 , it follows that -𝑎 = -1, 𝑎𝑘 - 𝑏 = 0, and 𝑏𝑘 = 𝑛𝑘 . Dividing each side of the
29 29
equation -𝑎 = -1 by -1 yields 𝑎 = 1. Substituting 1 for 𝑎 in the equation 𝑎𝑘 - 𝑏 = 0 yields 𝑘 - 𝑏 = 0. Adding 𝑏 to each side of
1 2 2 1 2
this equation yields 𝑘 = 𝑏. Substituting 𝑘 for 𝑏 in the equation 𝑏𝑘 = 𝑛𝑘 yields 𝑘 = 𝑛𝑘 . Since 𝑘 is positive, dividing
29 29
2 1
each side of this equation by 𝑘 yields 1 = 29
𝑛. Multiplying each side of this equation by 29 yields 29 = 𝑛.

Alternate approach: The expression 𝑥2 - 𝑦2 can be written as 𝑥 - 𝑦𝑥 + 𝑦, which is a difference of two squares. It follows
1 1 1 1 1
that 𝑛𝑘2 - 𝑥2 is equivalent to √ 𝑛𝑘 - 𝑥√ 𝑛𝑘 + 𝑥. It’s given that 𝑘 - 𝑥 is a factor of -𝑥2 + 𝑛𝑘2 , so the factor √ 29 𝑛𝑘 - 𝑥 is
29 29 29 29
1 1
equal to 𝑘 - 𝑥. Adding 𝑥 to both sides of the equation √ 29 𝑛𝑘 - 𝑥 = 𝑘 - 𝑥 yields √ 29 𝑛𝑘 = 𝑘. Since 𝑘 is positive, dividing both
1 1
sides of this equation by 𝑘 yields √ 29 𝑛 = 1. Squaring both sides of this equation yields 29
𝑛 = 1. Multiplying both sides of

this equation by 29 yields 𝑛 = 29.

1 2 2
Choice A is incorrect. This value of 𝑛 gives the expression -𝑥2 + 29 -29𝑘 , or -𝑥2 - 𝑘 . This expression doesn't have 𝑘 - 𝑥 as
a factor.

1 1 2 1 2
Choice B is incorrect. This value of 𝑛 gives the expression -𝑥2 + 29 - 29 𝑘 , or -𝑥2 + - 841 𝑘 . This expression doesn't have 𝑘 - 𝑥
as a factor.

1 1 2 1 2
Choice C is incorrect. This value of 𝑛 gives the expression -𝑥2 + 29 29 𝑘 , or -𝑥2 + 841 𝑘 . This expression doesn't have 𝑘 - 𝑥
as a factor.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID b73ee6cf
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: b73ee6cf

The population of a town is currently 50,000, and the population is estimated to

increase each year by 3% from the previous year. Which of the following
equations can be used to estimate the number of years, t, it will take for the
population of the town to reach 60,000 ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: b73ee6cf Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. Stating that the population will increase each year by 3% from the previous year is equivalent to
saying that the population each year will be 103% of the population the year before. Since the initial population is 50,000,
the population after t years is given by 50,000(1.03)t. It follows that the equation 60,000 = 50,000(1.03)t can be used to
estimate the number of years it will take for the population to reach 60,000.

Choice A is incorrect. This equation models how long it will take the population to decrease from 60,000 to 50,000, which
is impossible given the growth factor. Choice B is incorrect and may result from misinterpreting a 3% growth as growth
by a factor of 3. Additionally, this equation attempts to model how long it will take the population to decrease from
60,000 to 50,000. Choice C is incorrect and may result from misunderstanding how to model percent growth by
multiplying the initial amount by a factor greater than 1.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 08d03fe4
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 08d03fe4

For the exponential function , the value of is , where is a constant. Which of the following equivalent forms of
the function shows the value of as the coefficient or the base?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 08d03fe4 Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
𝑥-1 1-1
Choice C is correct. For the form of the function in choice C, 𝑓𝑥 = 1281.6 , the value of 𝑓1 can be found as 1281.6 ,
0 𝑥-1
which is equivalent to 1281.6 , or 128. Therefore, 𝑘 = 128, which is shown in 𝑓𝑥 = 1281.6 as the coefficient.

Choice A is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice D is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 7eed640d
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 7eed640d

The quadratic function above models the height above the ground h, in feet, of a
projectile x seconds after it had been launched vertically. If is graphed
in the xy-plane, which of the following represents the real-life meaning of the
positive x-intercept of the graph?

A. The initial height of the projectile

B. The maximum height of the projectile

C. The time at which the projectile reaches its maximum height

D. The time at which the projectile hits the ground

ID: 7eed640d Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. The positive x-intercept of the graph of is a point for which . Since
models the height above the ground, in feet, of the projectile, a y-value of 0 must correspond to the height of the projectile
when it is 0 feet above ground or, in other words, when the projectile is on the ground. Since x represents the time since
the projectile was launched, it follows that the positive x-intercept, , represents the time at which the projectile hits
the ground.

Choice A is incorrect and may result from misidentifying the y-intercept as a positive x-intercept. Choice B is incorrect
and may result from misidentifying the y-value of the vertex of the graph of the function as an x-intercept. Choice C is
incorrect and may result from misidentifying the x-value of the vertex of the graph of the function as an x-intercept.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 43926bd9
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 43926bd9

For the exponential function f, the table above shows several values of x and their corresponding values of ,

where a is a constant greater than 1. If k is a constant and , what is the value of k ?

ID: 43926bd9 Answer

Rationale

The correct answer is 8. The values of for the exponential function f shown in the table increase by a factor of

for each increase of 1 in x. This relationship can be represented by the equation , where b is a constant. It’s

given that when , . Substituting 2 for x and for into yields . Since

, it follows that . Thus, an equation that defines the function f is . It follows that the

value of k such that can be found by solving the equation , which yields .

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 4d037075
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 4d037075

The rational function is defined by an equation in the form , where and are constants. The partial
graph of is shown. If , which equation could define function ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 4d037075 Answer

Correct Answer: C
Rationale
𝑎
Choice C is correct. It's given that 𝑓𝑥 = and that the graph shown is a partial graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥. Substituting 𝑦 for 𝑓𝑥 in
𝑥+𝑏
𝑎 𝑎
the equation 𝑓𝑥 = yields 𝑦 = . The graph passes through the point -7, - 2. Substituting -7 for 𝑥 and -2 for 𝑦 in the
𝑥+𝑏 𝑥+𝑏
𝑎 𝑎
equation 𝑦 = 𝑥+𝑏
yields -2 = -7 + 𝑏
. Multiplying each side of this equation by -7 + 𝑏 yields -2-7 + 𝑏 = 𝑎, or 14 - 2𝑏 = 𝑎. The
𝑎 𝑎
graph also passes through the point -5, - 6. Substituting -5 for 𝑥 and -6 for 𝑦 in the equation 𝑦 = yields -6 = .
𝑥+𝑏 -5 + 𝑏
Multiplying each side of this equation by -5 + 𝑏 yields -6-5 + 𝑏 = 𝑎, or 30 - 6𝑏 = 𝑎. Substituting 14 - 2𝑏 for 𝑎 in this
equation yields 30 - 6𝑏 = 14 - 2𝑏. Adding 6𝑏 to each side of this equation yields 30 = 14 + 4𝑏. Subtracting 14 from each
side of this equation yields 16 = 4𝑏. Dividing each side of this equation by 4 yields 4 = 𝑏. Substituting 4 for 𝑏 in the
𝑎 6
equation 14 - 2𝑏 = 𝑎 yields 14 - 24 = 𝑎, or 6 = 𝑎. Substituting 6 for 𝑎 and 4 for 𝑏 in the equation 𝑓𝑥 = yields 𝑓𝑥 =
𝑥+𝑏 𝑥+4
6 6
. It's given that 𝑔𝑥 = 𝑓𝑥 + 4. Substituting 𝑥 + 4 for 𝑥 in the equation 𝑓𝑥 = yields 𝑓𝑥 + 4 = , which is equivalent
𝑥+4 𝑥+4+4
6 6
to 𝑓𝑥 + 4 = 𝑥+8
. It follows that 𝑔𝑥 = 𝑥+8
.

Choice A is incorrect. This could define function 𝑔 if 𝑔𝑥 = 𝑓𝑥 - 4.

Choice B is incorrect. This could define function 𝑔 if 𝑔𝑥 = 𝑓𝑥.

Choice D is incorrect. This could define function 𝑔 if 𝑔𝑥 = 𝑓𝑥 · 𝑥 + 4.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 4d7064a6
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 4d7064a6

The function is defined by the given equation. For what value of does reach its minimum?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 4d7064a6 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. It's given that 𝑓𝑥 = 𝑥 - 10𝑥 + 13, which can be rewritten as 𝑓𝑥 = 𝑥2 + 3𝑥 - 130. Since the coefficient
of the 𝑥2 -term is positive, the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥 in the xy-plane opens upward and reaches its minimum value at its vertex.
The x-coordinate of the vertex is the value of 𝑥 such that 𝑓𝑥 reaches its minimum. For an equation in the form
𝑏
𝑓𝑥 = 𝑎𝑥2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐, where 𝑎, 𝑏, and 𝑐 are constants, the x-coordinate of the vertex is - 2𝑎 . For the equation
3 3
𝑓𝑥 = 𝑥2 + 3𝑥 - 130, 𝑎 = 1, 𝑏 = 3, and 𝑐 = - 130. It follows that the x-coordinate of the vertex is - , or - . Therefore, 𝑓𝑥
21 2
3
reaches its minimum when the value of 𝑥 is - .
2

Alternate approach: The value of 𝑥 for the vertex of a parabola is the x-value of the midpoint between the two x-intercepts
of the parabola. Since it’s given that 𝑓𝑥 = 𝑥 - 10𝑥 + 13, it follows that the two x-intercepts of the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥 in the xy-
plane occur when 𝑥 = 10 and 𝑥 = - 13, or at the points 10, 0 and -13, 0. The midpoint between two points, 𝑥1 , 𝑦1 and 𝑥2 , 𝑦2
𝑥 +𝑥 𝑦 +𝑦 10 + -13 0 + 0 3
, is 1 2 , 1 2 . Therefore, the midpoint between 10, 0 and -13, 0 is , , or - , 0. It follows that 𝑓𝑥 reaches its
2 2 2 2 2
3
minimum when the value of 𝑥 is - 2 .

Choice A is incorrect. This is the y-coordinate of the y-intercept of the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥 in the xy-plane.

Choice B is incorrect. This is one of the x-coordinates of the x-intercepts of the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥 in the xy-plane.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 1853bb35
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 1853bb35

For the function , the value of decreases by for every increase in the value of by . If , which
equation defines ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 1853bb35 Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is correct. Since the value of 𝑞𝑥 decreases by a fixed percentage, 45%, for every increase in the value of 𝑥 by 1,
the function 𝑞 is a decreasing exponential function. A decreasing exponential function can be written in the form
𝑝 𝑥
𝑞𝑥 = 𝑎1 -
100
, where 𝑎 is the value of 𝑞0 and the value of 𝑞𝑥 decreases by 𝑝% for every increase in the value of 𝑥 by 1. If
𝑞0 = 14, then 𝑎 = 14. Since the value of 𝑞𝑥 decreases by 45% for every increase in the value of 𝑥 by 1, 𝑝 = 45.
𝑝 𝑥 45 𝑥
Substituting 14 for 𝑎 and 45 for 𝑝 in the equation 𝑞𝑥 = 𝑎1 - 100 yields 𝑞𝑥 = 141 - 100 , which is equivalent to
𝑥 𝑥
𝑞𝑥 = 141 - 0.45 , or 𝑞𝑥 = 140.55 .

Choice A is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice D is incorrect. For this function, the value of 𝑞𝑥 increases, rather than decreases, by 45% for every increase in the
value of 𝑥 by 1.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID a54753ca
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear equations

in one variable and
systems of equations
in two variables

ID: a54753ca

In the xy-plane, the graph of the equation intersects the line at exactly one point. What is
the value of ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: a54753ca Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is correct. In the xy-plane, the graph of the line 𝑦 = 𝑐 is a horizontal line that crosses the y-axis at 𝑦 = 𝑐 and the
graph of the quadratic equation 𝑦 = - 𝑥2 + 9𝑥 - 100 is a parabola. A parabola can intersect a horizontal line at exactly one
point only at its vertex. Therefore, the value of 𝑐 should be equal to the y-coordinate of the vertex of the graph of the given
2
equation. For a quadratic equation in vertex form, 𝑦 = 𝑎𝑥 - ℎ + 𝑘, the vertex of its graph in the xy-plane is ℎ, 𝑘. The given
9 92 92 92 319
quadratic equation, 𝑦 = - 𝑥2 + 9𝑥 - 100, can be rewritten as 𝑦 = - 𝑥2 - 2 2 𝑥 + 2 + 2 - 100, or 𝑦 = - 𝑥 - 2 + - 4
. Thus, the
319
value of 𝑐 is equal to - .
4

Choice A is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice D is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID a8ae0d22
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: a8ae0d22

Two variables, and , are related such that for each increase of in the value of , the value of increases by a factor
of . When , . Which equation represents this relationship?

A. msup

B. msup

C. msup

D. msup

ID: a8ae0d22 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. Since the value of 𝑦 increases by a constant factor, 4, for each increase of 1 in the value of 𝑥, the
relationship between 𝑥 and 𝑦 is exponential. An exponential relationship between 𝑥 and 𝑦 can be represented by an
𝑥
equation of the form 𝑦 = 𝑎𝑏 , where 𝑎 is the value of 𝑥 when 𝑦 = 0 and 𝑦 increases by a factor of 𝑏 for each increase of 1
in the value of 𝑥. Since 𝑦 = 200 when 𝑥 = 0, 𝑎 = 200. Since 𝑦 increases by a factor of 4 for each increase of 1 in the value
of 𝑥, 𝑏 = 4. Substituting 200 for 𝑎 and 4 for 𝑏 in the equation 𝑦 = 𝑎𝑏𝑥 yields 𝑦 = 2004𝑥 . Thus, the equation 𝑦 = 2004𝑥
represents the relationship between 𝑥 and 𝑦.

Choice A is incorrect and may result from conceptual errors.

Choice B is incorrect. This equation represents a relationship where for each increase of 1 in the value of 𝑥, the value of 𝑦
increases by a factor of 200, not 4, and when 𝑥 = 0, 𝑦 is equal to 4, not 200.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 161126cf
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 161126cf

The function is defined by the given equation. The equation can be rewritten as , where is a
constant. Which of the following is closest to the value of ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 161126cf Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
𝑥 1 1𝑥
Choice A is correct. The equation 𝑓𝑥 = 1.84 4 can be rewritten as 𝑓𝑥 = 1.84 4 𝑥 , which is equivalent to 𝑓𝑥 = 1.84 4 , or
𝑥 𝑝 𝑥
approximately 𝑓𝑥 = 1.16467𝑥 . Since it's given that 𝑓𝑥 = 1.84 4 can be rewritten as 𝑓𝑥 = 1 + 100 , where 𝑝 is a constant, it
𝑝 𝑝
follows that 1 + is approximately equal to 1.16467. Therefore, is approximately equal to 0.16467. It follows that
100 100
the value of 𝑝 is approximately equal to 16.467. Of the given choices, 16 is closest to the value of 𝑝.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice D is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID a7711fe8
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: a7711fe8

What is the minimum value of the function f

defined by ?

A.

B.

C. 2

D. 4

ID: a7711fe8 Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale

Choice A is correct. The given quadratic function f is in vertex form, , where is the vertex of the
graph of in the xy-plane. Therefore, the vertex of the graph of is . In addition, the y-coordinate
of the vertex represents either the minimum or maximum value of a quadratic function, depending on whether the graph
of the function opens upward or downward. Since the leading coefficient of f (the coefficient of the term ) is 1,
which is positive, the graph of opens upward. It follows that at , the minimum value of the function f is
.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from making a sign error and from using the x-coordinate of the vertex. Choice C is
incorrect and may result from using the x-coordinate of the vertex. Choice D is incorrect and may result from making a
sign error.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 1a722d7d
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 1a722d7d

Let the function p be defined as , where c is a constant.

If , what is the value of ?

A. 10.00

B. 10.25

C. 10.75

D. 11.00

ID: 1a722d7d Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. The value of p(12) depends on the value of the constant c, so the value of c must first be determined.
It is given that p(c) = 10. Based on the definition of p, it follows that:

This means that for all values of x. Therefore:

Choice A is incorrect. It is the value of p(8), not p(12). Choices B and C are incorrect. If one of these values were correct,
then x = 12 and the selected value of p(12) could be substituted into the equation to solve for c. However, the values of c
that result from choices B and C each result in p(c) < 10.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 6e7ae9fc
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 6e7ae9fc

The function is defined by . The value of is , where is a constant. What is the

sum of all possible values of ?

ID: 6e7ae9fc Answer

Correct Answer: 25

Rationale
The correct answer is 25. The value of 𝑔7 - 𝑤 is the value of 𝑔𝑥 when 𝑥 = 7 - 𝑤, where 𝑤 is a constant. Substituting 7 - 𝑤
2 2
for 𝑥 in the given equation yields 𝑔7 - 𝑤 = 7 - 𝑤7 - 𝑤 - 27 - 𝑤 + 6 , which is equivalent to 𝑔7 - 𝑤 = 7 - 𝑤5 - 𝑤13 - 𝑤 . It’s
given that the value of 𝑔7 - 𝑤 is 0. Substituting 0 for 𝑔7 - 𝑤 in the equation 𝑔7 - 𝑤 = 7 - 𝑤5 - 𝑤13 - 𝑤2 yields
2
0 = 7 - 𝑤5 - 𝑤13 - 𝑤 . Since the product of the three factors on the right-hand side of this equation is equal to 0, at least
one of these three factors must be equal to 0. Therefore, the possible values of 𝑤 can be found by setting each factor
equal to 0. Setting the first factor equal to 0 yields 7 - 𝑤 = 0. Adding 𝑤 to both sides of this equation yields 7 = 𝑤.
Therefore, 7 is one possible value of 𝑤. Setting the second factor equal to 0 yields 5 - 𝑤 = 0. Adding 𝑤 to both sides of
this equation yields 5 = 𝑤. Therefore, 5 is a second possible value of 𝑤. Setting the third factor equal to 0 yields
2
13 - 𝑤 = 0. Taking the square root of both sides of this equation yields 13 - 𝑤 = 0. Adding 𝑤 to both sides of this
equation yields 13 = 𝑤. Therefore, 13 is a third possible value of 𝑤. Adding the three possible values of 𝑤 yields
7 + 5 + 13, or 25. Therefore, the sum of all possible values of 𝑤 is 25.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 48f83c34
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 48f83c34

A right rectangular prism has a height of inches. The length of the prism's base is inches, which is inches more than
the width of the prism's base. Which function gives the volume of the prism, in cubic inches, in terms of the length of
the prism's base?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 48f83c34 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. The volume of a right rectangular prism can be represented by a function 𝑉 that gives the volume of
the prism, in cubic inches, in terms of the length of the prism's base. The volume of a right rectangular prism is equal to
the area of its base times its height. It's given that the length of the prism's base is 𝑥 inches, which is 7 inches more than
the width of the prism's base. This means that the width of the prism's base is 𝑥 - 7 inches. It follows that the area of the
prism's base, in square inches, is 𝑥𝑥 - 7 and the volume, in cubic inches, of the prism is 𝑥𝑥 - 79. Thus, the function 𝑉 that
gives the volume of this right rectangular prism, in cubic inches, in terms of the length of the prism's base, 𝑥, is
𝑉𝑥 = 9𝑥𝑥 - 7.

Choice A is incorrect. This function would give the volume of the prism if the height were 9 inches more than the length
of its base and the width of the base were 7 inches more than its length.

Choice B is incorrect. This function would give the volume of the prism if the height were 9 inches more than the length
of its base.

Choice C is incorrect. This function would give the volume of the prism if the width of the base were 7 inches more than
its length, rather than the length of the base being 7 inches more than its width.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 58b109d4
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear equations

in one variable and
systems of equations
in two variables

ID: 58b109d4

The solution to the given system of equations is . What is the value of ?

ID: 58b109d4 Answer

Correct Answer: -10

Rationale
The correct answer is -10. Adding 𝑦 to both sides of the second equation in the given system yields 20𝑥 + 100 = 𝑦.
Substituting 20𝑥 + 100 for 𝑦 in the first equation in the given system yields 𝑥2 + 20𝑥 + 100 + 7 = 7. Subtracting 7 from
both sides of this equation yields 𝑥2 + 20𝑥 + 100 = 0. Factoring the left-hand side of this equation yields
2
𝑥 + 10𝑥 + 10 = 0, or 𝑥 + 10 = 0. Taking the square root of both sides of this equation yields 𝑥 + 10 = 0. Subtracting 10
from both sides of this equation yields 𝑥 = - 10. Therefore, the value of 𝑥 is -10.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 85939da5
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and Inference from

Data Analysis sample statistics and
margin of error

ID: 85939da5

Does not talk

Texting Talks on cell on cell phone
behavior phone daily daily Total

Light 110 146 256

Medium 139 164 303

Heavy 166 74 240

Total 415 384 799

In a study of cell phone use, 799 randomly selected US teens were asked how
often they talked on a cell phone and about their texting behavior. The data are
summarized in the table above. Based on the data from the study, an estimate of
the percent of US teens who are heavy texters is 30% and the associated margin
of error is 3%. Which of the following is a correct statement based on the given
margin of error?

A. Approximately 3% of the teens in the study who are classified as heavy texters are not really heavy texters.

B. It is not possible that the percent of all US teens who are heavy texters is less than 27%.

C. The percent of all US teens who are heavy texters is 33%.

D. It is doubtful that the percent of all US teens who are heavy texters is 35%.

ID: 85939da5 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. The given margin of error of 3% indicates that the actual percent of all US teens who are heavy
texters is likely within 3% of the estimate of 30%, or between 27% and 33%. Therefore, it is unlikely, or doubtful, that the
percent of all US teens who are heavy texters would be 35%.

Choice A is incorrect. The margin of error doesn’t provide any information about the accuracy of reporting in the study.
Choice B is incorrect. Based on the estimate and given margin of error, it is unlikely that the percent of all US teens who
are heavy texters would be less than 27%, but it is possible. Choice C is incorrect. While the percent of all US teens who
are heavy texters is likely between 27% and 33%, any value within this interval is equally likely. We can’t be certain that the
value is exactly 33%.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID e29586d5
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and Probability and

Data Analysis conditional
probability

ID: e29586d5

Number of Contestants by Score and Day

5 out 4 out 3 out 2 out 1 out 0 out
Total
of 5 of 5 of 5 of 5 of 5 of 5

Day
2 3 4 6 2 3 20
1

Day
2 3 5 5 4 1 20
2

Day
3 3 4 5 3 2 20
3

Total 7 9 13 16 9 6 60
The same 20 contestants, on each of 3 days, answered 5 questions in order to win a prize. Each contestant received 1
point for each correct answer. The number of contestants receiving a given score on each day is shown in the table
above.
No contestant received the same score on two different days. If a contestant is
selected at random, what is the probability that the selected contestant received
a score of 5 on Day 2 or Day 3, given that the contestant received a score of 5 on
one of the three days?

ID: e29586d5 Answer

Rationale

The correct answer is . It is given that no contestant received the same score on two different days, so each of the
contestants who received a score of 5 is represented in the “5 out of 5” column of the table exactly once. Therefore, the
probability of selecting a contestant who received a score of 5 on Day 2 or Day 3, given that the contestant received a
score of 5 on one of the three days, is found by dividing the total number of contestants who received a score of 5 on Day
2 or Day 3 by the total number of contestants who received a score of 5, which is given in the table as 7. So

the probability is . Note that 5/7, .7142, .7143, and 0.714 are examples of ways to enter a correct answer.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 954943a4
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and Percentages

Data Analysis

ID: 954943a4

Jennifer bought a box of Crunchy Grain cereal. The nutrition facts on the box

state that a serving size of the cereal is cup and provides 210 calories, 50 of
which are calories from fat. In addition, each serving of the cereal provides 180
milligrams of potassium, which is 5% of the daily allowance for adults. If p
percent of an adult’s daily allowance of potassium is provided by x servings of
Crunchy Grain cereal per day, which of the following expresses p in terms of x ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 954943a4 Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is correct. It’s given that each serving of Crunchy Grain cereal provides 5% of an adult’s daily allowance of
potassium, so x servings would provide x times 5%. The percentage of an adult’s daily allowance of potassium, p, is 5
times the number of servings, x. Therefore, the percentage of an adult’s daily allowance of potassium can be expressed
as .

Choices A, C, and D are incorrect and may result from incorrectly converting 5% to its decimal equivalent, which isn’t
necessary since p is expressed as a percentage. Additionally, choices C and D are incorrect because the context should
be represented by a linear relationship, not by an exponential relationship.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 1baffbcf
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and Percentages

Data Analysis

ID: 1baffbcf

The expression represents the result of decreasing a positive quantity by what percent?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 1baffbcf Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. Let 𝑛% represent the percent by which the positive quantity 𝑥 is decreased to result in 0.35𝑥. The
𝑛
value of 𝑛 can be found by solving the equation 𝑥 - 100 𝑥 = 0.35𝑥. Since 𝑥 is a common factor of each of the terms on the
𝑛
left-hand side of this equation, the equation can be rewritten as 𝑥1 - = 0.35𝑥. Dividing each side of this equation by 𝑥
100
𝑛
yields 1 - = 0.35. Multiplying each side of this equation by 100 yields 100 - 𝑛 = 35. Subtracting 100 from each side of
100
this equation yields -𝑛 = -65. Dividing each side of this equation by -1 yields 𝑛 = 65. Therefore, the expression 0.35𝑥
represents the result of decreasing the positive quantity 𝑥 by 65%.

Choice A is incorrect. Decreasing the quantity 𝑥 by 3.5% yields 𝑥 - 0.035𝑥, or 0.965𝑥, not 0.35𝑥.

Choice B is incorrect. Decreasing the quantity 𝑥 by 35% yields 𝑥 - 0.35𝑥, or 0.65𝑥, not 0.35𝑥.

Choice C is incorrect. Decreasing the quantity 𝑥 by 6.5% yields 𝑥 - 0.065𝑥, or 0.935𝑥, not 0.35𝑥.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID c7e73ece
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and Inference from

Data Analysis sample statistics and
margin of error

ID: c7e73ece
Views on Nuclear Energy
Use
Response Frequency

Strongly
56
favor

Somewhat
214
favor

Somewhat
104
oppose

Strongly
37
oppose

A researcher interviewed 411 randomly selected US residents and asked about their views on the use of nuclear energy.
The table above summarizes the responses of the interviewees. If the population of the United States was 300 million
when the survey was given, based on the sample data for the 411 US residents, what is the best estimate, in millions, of
the difference between the number of US residents who somewhat favor or strongly favor the use of nuclear energy and
the number of those who somewhat oppose or strongly oppose it? (Round your answer to the nearest whole number.)

ID: c7e73ece Answer

Rationale
The correct answer is 94. Of those interviewed, “strongly favor” or “somewhat favor” the use of nuclear
energy, and interviewees “somewhat oppose” or “strongly oppose” the use of nuclear energy. The
difference between the sizes of the two surveyed groups is . The proportion of this difference among

the entire group of interviewees is . Because the sample of interviewees was selected at random from US
residents, it is reasonable to assume that the proportion of this difference is the same among all US residents as in the
sample. Therefore, the best estimate, in millions, of the difference between the number of US residents who somewhat
favor or strongly favor the use of nuclear energy and the number of those who somewhat oppose or strongly oppose it is

, which to the nearest million is 94.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID d3b9c8d8
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and One-variable data:

Data Analysis Distributions and
measures of center
and spread

ID: d3b9c8d8

The box plots summarize the masses, in kilograms, of two groups of gazelles. Based on the box plots, which of the
following statements must be true?

A. The mean mass of group 1 is greater than the mean mass of group 2.

B. The mean mass of group 1 is less than the mean mass of group 2.

C. The median mass of group 1 is greater than the median mass of group 2.

D. The median mass of group 1 is less than the median mass of group 2.

ID: d3b9c8d8 Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is correct. The median of a data set represented in a box plot is represented by the vertical line within the box. It
follows that the median mass of the gazelles in group 1 is 25 kilograms, and the median mass of the gazelles in group 2
is 24 kilograms. Since 25 kilograms is greater than 24 kilograms, the median mass of group 1 is greater than the median
mass of group 2.

Choice A is incorrect. The mean mass of each of the two groups cannot be determined from the box plots.

Choice B is incorrect. The mean mass of each of the two groups cannot be determined from the box plots.

Choice D is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 65c49824
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and Percentages

Data Analysis

ID: 65c49824

A school district is forming a committee to discuss plans for the construction of

a new high school. Of those invited to join the committee, 15% are parents of
students, 45% are teachers from the current high school, 25% are school and
district administrators, and the remaining 6 individuals are students. How many
more teachers were invited to join the committee than school and district
administrators?

ID: 65c49824 Answer

Rationale
The correct answer is 8. The 6 students represent of those invited to join the

committee. If x people were invited to join the committee, then . Thus, there were people invited
to join the committee. It follows that there were teachers and school and district
administrators invited to join the committee. Therefore, there were 8 more teachers than school and district
administrators invited to join the committee.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 1ea09200
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and Evaluating statistical

Data Analysis claims:
Observational
studies and
experiments

ID: 1ea09200

A sample of 40 fourth-grade students was selected at random from a certain

school. The 40 students completed a survey about the morning announcements,
and 32 thought the announcements were helpful. Which of the following is the
largest population to which the results of the survey can be applied?

A. The 40 students who were surveyed

B. All fourth-grade students at the school

C. All students at the school

D. All fourth-grade students in the county in which the school is located

ID: 1ea09200 Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is correct. Selecting a sample of a reasonable size at random to use for a survey allows the results from that
survey to be applied to the population from which the sample was selected, but not beyond this population. In this case,
the population from which the sample was selected is all fourth-grade students at a certain school. Therefore, the results
of the survey can be applied to all fourth-grade students at the school.

Choice A is incorrect. The results of the survey can be applied to the 40 students who were surveyed. However, this isn’t
the largest group to which the results of the survey can be applied. Choices C and D are incorrect. Since the sample was
selected at random from among the fourth-grade students at a certain school, the results of the survey can’t be applied
to other students at the school or to other fourth-grade students who weren’t represented in the survey results. Students
in other grades in the school or other fourth-grade students in the country may feel differently about announcements
than the fourth-grade students at the school.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 4aaa9c42
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and Percentages

Data Analysis

ID: 4aaa9c42

The positive number is of the sum of the positive numbers and , and is of . What percent of is ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 4aaa9c42 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. It’s given that 𝑎 is 2,241% of the sum of 𝑏 and 𝑐. This can be represented by the equation
2,241 83
𝑎= 𝑏 + 𝑐, or 𝑎 = 22.41𝑏 + 𝑐. It’s also given that that 𝑏 is 83% of 𝑐. This can be represented by the equation 𝑏 = 𝑐,
100 100
𝑏 𝑏
or 𝑏 = 0.83𝑐. Dividing both sides of this equation by 0.83 yields 0.83
= 𝑐. Substituting
0.83
for 𝑐 in the equation
𝑏 1.83𝑏 41.0103𝑏
𝑎 = 22.41𝑏 + 𝑐 yields 𝑎 = 22.41𝑏 + , or 𝑎 = 22.41 , which is equivalent to 𝑎 = , or 𝑎 = 49.41𝑏. This equation
0.83 0.83 0.83
4,941
is equivalent to 𝑎 = 100
𝑏; therefore, 𝑎 is 4,941% of 𝑏.

Choice A is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID fb866265
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and Two-variable data:

Data Analysis Models and
scatterplots

ID: fb866265

The scatterplot shows the relationship between two variables, and . An equation for the exponential model shown can
be written as , where and are positive constants. Which of the following is closest to the value of ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: fb866265 Answer

Correct Answer: A
Rationale
𝑥
Choice A is correct. It's given that an equation for the exponential model shown can be written as 𝑦 = 𝑎𝑏 , where 𝑎 and 𝑏
are positive constants. For an exponential model written in this form, if the value of 𝑏 is greater than 0 but less than 1, the
model is decreasing. If the value of 𝑏 is greater than 1, the model is increasing. The exponential model shown is
decreasing. Therefore, the value of 𝑏 is greater than 0 but less than 1. Of the given choices, only 0.83 is a value greater
than 0 but less than 1. Thus, 0.83 is closest to the value of 𝑏.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice D is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 0ea56bb2
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and Percentages

Data Analysis

ID: 0ea56bb2

Subscriptions
Year
sold

2012 5,600

2013 5,880

The manager of an online news service received the report above on the number
of subscriptions sold by the service. The manager estimated that the percent
increase from 2012 to 2013 would be double the percent increase from 2013 to
2014. How many subscriptions did the manager expect would be sold in 2014?

A. 6,020

B. 6,027

C. 6,440

D. 6,468

ID: 0ea56bb2 Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale

Choice B is correct. The percent increase from 2012 to 2013 was , or 5%. Since the percent
increase from 2012 to 2013 was estimated to be double the percent increase from 2013 to 2014, the percent increase
from 2013 to 2014 was expected to be 2.5%.
Therefore, the number of subscriptions sold in 2014 is expected to be the number of subscriptions sold in 2013
multiplied by , or .

Choice A is incorrect and is the result of adding half of the value of the increase from 2012 to 2013 to the 2013 result.
Choice C is incorrect and is the result adding twice the value of the increase from 2012 to 2013 to the 2013 result. Choice
D is incorrect and is the result of interpreting the percent increase from 2013 to 2014 as double the percent increase
from 2012 to 2013.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 0231050d
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and Percentages

Data Analysis

ID: 0231050d

The line graph shows the total amount of snow, in inches, recorded each year in
Washington, DC, from 2003 to 2015. If is the percent decrease in the annual
snowfall from 2003 to 2007, what is the value of p ?

ID: 0231050d Answer

Rationale
The correct answer is 75. The percent decrease between two values is found by dividing the difference between the two
values by the original value and multiplying by 100. The line graph shows that the annual snowfall in 2003 was 40 inches,
and the annual snowfall in 2007 was 10 inches. Therefore, the percent decrease in the annual snowfall from 2003 to

2007 is , or 75. It’s given that this is equivalent to , so the value of p is 75.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID d4413871
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and Probability and

Data Analysis conditional
probability

ID: d4413871

Blood type

Rhesus factor A B AB O

33 9 3 37

7 2 1 x

Human blood can be classified into four common blood types—A, B, AB, and O. It
is also characterized by the presence or absence of the rhesus factor.
The table above shows the distribution of blood type and rhesus factor for a
group of people. If one of these people who is rhesus negative is chosen at

random, the probability that the person has blood type B is . What is the value
of x ?

ID: d4413871 Answer

Rationale

The correct answer is 8. In this group, of the people who are rhesus negative have blood type B. The total number of
people who are rhesus negative in the group is , and there are 2 people who are rhesus negative with blood

type B. Therefore, . Combining like terms on the left-hand side of the equation yields

. Multiplying both sides of this equation by 9 yields , and multiplying both sides of this
equation by yields . Subtracting 10 from both sides of this equation yields .

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 190be2fc
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and One-variable data:

Data Analysis Distributions and
measures of center
and spread

ID: 190be2fc

Data set A consists of positive integers less than . The list shown gives of the integers from data set A.
, , , , , , , ,
The mean of these integers is . If the mean of data set A is an integer that is greater than , what is the value of the
largest integer from data set A?

ID: 190be2fc Answer

Correct Answer: 52

Rationale
The correct answer is 52. The mean of a data set is calculated by dividing the sum of the data values by the number of
values. It’s given that data set A consists of 10 values, 9 of which are shown. Let 𝑥 represent the 10th data value in data
43 + 45 + 44 + 43 + 38 + 39 + 40 + 46 + 40 + 𝑥
set A, which isn’t shown. The mean of data set A can be found using the expression 10
,
378 + 𝑥
or 10
. It’s given that the mean of the 9 values shown is 42 and that the mean of all 10 numbers is greater than 42.
Consequently, the 10th data value, 𝑥, is larger than 42. It’s also given that the data values in data set A are positive
integers less than 60. Thus, 42 < 𝑥 < 60. Finally, it’s given that the mean of data set A is an integer. This means that the
sum of the 10 data values, 378 + 𝑥, is divisible by 10. Thus, 378 + 𝑥 must have a ones digit of 0. It follows that 𝑥 must
have a ones digit of 2. Since 42 < 𝑥 < 60 and 𝑥 has a ones digit of 2, the only possible value of 𝑥 is 52. Since 52 is larger
than any of the integers shown, the largest integer from data set A is 52.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 2e8027b0
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and Two-variable data:

Data Analysis Models and
scatterplots

ID: 2e8027b0

The scatterplot shows the relationship between two variables, and , for data set E. A line of best fit is shown. Data set
F is created by multiplying the y-coordinate of each data point from data set E by . Which of the following could be an
equation of a line of best fit for data set F?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 2e8027b0 Answer

Correct Answer: A
Rationale
Choice A is correct. An equation of a line of best fit for data set F can be written in the form 𝑦 = 𝑎 + 𝑏𝑥, where 𝑎 is the y-
coordinate of the y-intercept of the line of best fit and 𝑏 is the slope. The line of best fit shown for data set E has a y-
intercept at approximately 0, 12. It's given that data set F is created by multiplying the y-coordinate of each data point
from data set E by 3.9. It follows that a line of best fit for data set F has a y-intercept at approximately 0, 123.9, or 0, 46.8.
Therefore, the value of 𝑎 is approximately 46.8. The slope of a line that passes through points 𝑥1 , 𝑦1 and 𝑥2 , 𝑦2 can be
𝑦2 - 𝑦1
calculated as 𝑥2 - 𝑥1
. Since the line of best fit shown for data set E passes approximately through the point 12, 30, it
follows that a line of best fit for data set F passes approximately through the point 12, 303.9, or 12, 117. Substituting
𝑦 -𝑦 117 - 46.8 70.2
0, 46.8 and 12, 117 for 𝑥1 , 𝑦1 and 𝑥2 , 𝑦2 , respectively, in 2 1 yields , which is equivalent to , or 5.85. Therefore,
𝑥2 - 𝑥1 12 - 0 12
the value of 𝑏 is approximately 5.85, or approximately 5.9. Thus, 𝑦 = 46.8 + 5.9𝑥 could be an equation of a line of best fit
for data set F.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice D is incorrect. This could be an equation of a line of best fit for data set E, not data set F.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID c178d4da
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and One-variable data:

Data Analysis Distributions and
measures of center
and spread

ID: c178d4da

Value Data set A frequency Data set B frequency

Data set A and data set B each consist of values. The table shows the frequencies of the values for each data set.
Which of the following statements best compares the means of the two data sets?

A. The mean of data set A is greater than the mean of data set B.

B. The mean of data set A is less than the mean of data set B.

C. The mean of data set A is equal to the mean of data set B.

D. There is not enough information to compare the means of the data sets.

ID: c178d4da Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is correct. The mean value of a data set is the sum of the values of the data set divided by the number of values
in the data set. When a data set is represented in a frequency table, the sum of the values in the data set is the sum of
the products of each value and its frequency. For data set A, the sum of products of each value and its frequency is
302 + 344 + 385 + 427 + 469, or 1,094. It's given that there are 27 values in data set A. Therefore, the mean of data set A
1,094 958
is 27
, or approximately 40.52. Similarly, the mean of data B is
27
, or approximately 35.48. Therefore, the mean of data
set A is greater than the mean of data set B.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice D is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 457d2f2c
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and One-variable data:

Data Analysis Distributions and
measures of center
and spread

ID: 457d2f2c

A data set of 27 different numbers has a mean of 33 and a median of 33. A new
data set is created by adding 7 to each number in the original data set that is
greater than the median and subtracting 7 from each number in the original data
set that is less than the median. Which of the following measures does NOT
have the same value in both the original and new data sets?

A. Median

B. Mean

C. Sum of the numbers

D. Standard deviation

ID: 457d2f2c Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. When a data set has an odd number of elements, the median can be found by ordering the values
from least to greatest and determining the middle value. Out of the 27 different numbers in this data set, 13 numbers are
below the median, one number is exactly 33, and 13 numbers are above the median. When 7 is subtracted from each
number below the median and added to each number above the median, the data spread out from the median. Since the
median of this data set, 33, is equivalent to the mean of the data set, the data also spread out from the mean. Since
standard deviation is a measure of how spread out the data are from the mean, a greater spread from the mean indicates
an increased standard deviation.

Choice A is incorrect. All the numbers less than the median decrease and all the numbers greater than the median
increase, but the median itself doesn’t change. Choices B and C are incorrect. The mean of a data set is found by dividing
the sum of the values by the number of values. The net change from subtracting 7 from 13 numbers and adding 7 to 13
numbers is zero. Therefore, neither the mean nor the sum of the numbers changes.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID c9fb15ad
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and Ratios, rates,

Data Analysis proportional
relationships, and
units

ID: c9fb15ad

Species of Growth
tree factor

Red maple 4.5

River birch 3.5

Cottonwood 2.0

Black walnut 4.5

White birch 5.0

American
4.0
elm

Pin oak 3.0

Shagbark
7.5
hickory

One method of calculating the approximate age, in years, of a tree of a particular

species is to multiply the diameter of the tree, in inches, by a constant called the
growth factor for that species. The table above gives the growth factors for eight
species of trees. If a white birch tree and a pin oak tree each now have a
diameter of 1 foot, which of the following will be closest to the difference, in
inches, of their diameters 10 years from now? (1 foot = 12 inches)

A. 1.0

B. 1.2

C. 1.3

D. 1.4

ID: c9fb15ad Answer

Correct Answer: C
Rationale
Choice C is correct. According to the given information, multiplying a tree species’ growth factor by the tree’s diameter is
a method to approximate the age of the tree. A white birch with a diameter of 12 inches (or 1 foot) has a given growth
factor of 5 and is approximately 60 years old. A pin oak with a diameter of 12 inches (or 1 foot) has a given growth factor
of 3 and is approximately 36 years old. The diameters of the two trees 10 years from now can be found by dividing each

tree’s age in 10 years, 70 years, and 46 years, by its respective growth factor. This yields 14 inches and inches. The

difference between and 14 is , or approximately 1.3 inches.

Alternate approach: Since a white birch has a growth factor of 5, the age increases at a rate of 5 years per inch or,

equivalently, the diameter increases at a rate of of an inch per year. Likewise, the pin oak has a growth factor of 3, so

its diameter increases at a rate of of an inch per year. Thus, the pin oak grows of an inch per year more than the

white birch. In 10 years it will grow of an inch more, which is approximately 1.3 inches.

Choices A, B, and D are incorrect and a result of incorrectly calculating the diameters of the two trees in 10 years.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID e438ec3f
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and Probability and

Data Analysis conditional
probability

ID: e438ec3f

A grove has rows of birch trees and rows of maple trees. Each row of birch trees has trees feet or taller and
trees shorter than feet. Each row of maple trees has trees feet or taller and trees shorter than feet. A tree
from one of these rows will be selected at random. What is the probability of selecting a maple tree, given that the tree is
feet or taller?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: e438ec3f Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is correct. If a tree from one of these rows is selected at random, the probability of selecting a maple tree, given
that the tree is 20 feet or taller, is equal to the number of maple trees that are 20 feet or taller divided by the total number
of trees that are 20 feet or taller. It's given that there are 6 rows of birch trees, and each row of birch trees has 8 trees that
are 20 feet or taller. This means that there are a total of 68, or 48, birch trees that are 20 feet or taller. It's given that there
are 5 rows of maple trees, and each row of maple trees has 9 trees that are 20 feet or taller. This means that there are a
total of 59, or 45, maple trees that are 20 feet or taller. It follows that there are a total of 48 + 45, or 93, trees that are 20
45 15
feet or taller. Therefore, the probability of selecting a maple tree, given that the tree is 20 feet or taller, is , or .
93 31

Choice A is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice D is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID d6af3572
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and Two-variable data:

Data Analysis Models and
scatterplots

ID: d6af3572

The scatterplot above shows the federal-mandated minimum wage every 10

years between 1940 and 2010. A line of best fit is shown, and its equation is
. What does the line of best fit predict about the increase in the
minimum wage over the 70-year period?

A. Each year between 1940 and 2010, the average increase in minimum wage was 0.096 dollars.

B. Each year between 1940 and 2010, the average increase in minimum wage was 0.49 dollars.

C. Every 10 years between 1940 and 2010, the average increase in minimum wage was 0.096 dollars.

D. Every 10 years between 1940 and 2010, the average increase in minimum wage was 0.488 dollars.

ID: d6af3572 Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is correct. The given equation is in slope-intercept form, or , where m is the value of the slope of
the line of best fit. Therefore, the slope of the line of best fit is 0.096. From the definition of slope, it follows that an
increase of 1 in the x-value corresponds to an increase of 0.096 in the y-value. Therefore, the line of best fit predicts that
for each year between 1940 and 2010, the minimum wage will increase by 0.096 dollar per hour.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from using the y-coordinate of the y-intercept as the average increase, instead of the
slope. Choice C is incorrect and may result from using the 10-year increments given on the x-axis to incorrectly interpret
the slope of the line of best fit. Choice D is incorrect and may result from using the y-coordinate of the y-intercept as the
average increase, instead of the slope, and from using the 10-year increments given on the x-axis to incorrectly interpret
the slope of the line of best fit.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 69f6717f
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and Ratios, rates,

Data Analysis proportional
relationships, and
units

ID: 69f6717f

A sample of oak has a density of kilograms per cubic meter. The sample is in the shape of a cube, where each edge
has a length of meters. To the nearest whole number, what is the mass, in kilograms, of this sample?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 69f6717f Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is correct. It’s given that the sample is in the shape of a cube with edge lengths of 0.9 meters. Therefore, the
volume of the sample is 0.903 , or 0.729, cubic meters. It’s also given that the sample has a density of 807 kilograms per 1
807 kilograms
cubic meter. Therefore, the mass of this sample is 0.729 cubic meters 1 cubic meter , or 588.303 kilograms. Rounding this
mass to the nearest whole number gives 588 kilograms. Therefore, to the nearest whole number, the mass, in kilograms,
of this sample is 588.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice D is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 6c9444cd
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and One-variable data:

Data Analysis Distributions and
measures of center
and spread

ID: 6c9444cd

The two box plots show the distribution of number of books read over the summer by the students in two different
English classes. What is the positive difference between the ranges of number of books read over the summer for the
two classes?

ID: 6c9444cd Answer

Correct Answer: 4

Rationale
The correct answer is 4. It's given that the two boxplots show the distribution of number of books read over the summer
by the students in two different English classes. In a boxplot, the first vertical line represents the minimum value of the
data set and the last vertical line represents the maximum value of the data set. The range of a data set is the difference
between its maximum value and its minimum value. In class A, the maximum number of books read is 5 and the
minimum number of books read is 0. The difference between those values is 5 - 0, or 5. Therefore, the range of the
number of books read in class A is 5. In class B, the maximum number of books read is 10 and the minimum number of
books read is 1. The difference between those values is 10 - 1, or 9. Therefore, the range of the number of books read in
class B is 9. To find the positive difference between the ranges of the number of books read for the two classes, the
smaller range must be subtracted from the larger range. Therefore, the positive difference between the ranges of number
of books read over the summer for the two classes is 9 - 5, or 4.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID d65b9a87
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and One-variable data:

Data Analysis Distributions and
measures of center
and spread

ID: d65b9a87

The dot plots represent the distributions of values in data sets A and B.

Which of the following statements must be true?

The median of data set A is equal to the median of data set B.
The standard deviation of data set A is equal to the standard deviation of data set B.

A. I only

B. II only

C. I and II

D. Neither I nor II

ID: d65b9a87 Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is correct. The median of a data set with an odd number of values that are in ascending or descending order is
the middle value of the data set. Since the distribution of the values of both data set A and data set B form symmetric
dot plots, and each data set has an odd number of values, it follows that the median is given by the middle value in each
of the dot plots. Thus, the median of data set A is 13, and the median of data set B is 13. Therefore, statement I is true.
Data set A and data set B have the same frequency for each of the values 11, 12, 14, and 15. Data set A has a frequency
of 1 for values 10 and 16, whereas data set B has a frequency of 2 for values 10 and 16. Standard deviation is a measure
of the spread of a data set; it is larger when there are more values further from the mean, and smaller when there are
more values closer to the mean. Since both distributions are symmetric with an odd number of values, the mean of each
data set is equal to its median. Thus, each data set has a mean of 13. Since more of the values in data set A are closer to
13 than data set B, it follows that data set A has a smaller standard deviation than data set B. Thus, statement II is false.
Therefore, only statement I must be true.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice D is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard
Question ID 1fbd3b67
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and Percentages

Data Analysis

ID: 1fbd3b67

The number is greater than the number . The number is less than . What is the value of ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 1fbd3b67 Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is correct. It's given that the number 𝑏 is 80% less than 24. It follows that 𝑏 is equal to 24 minus 80% of 24,
80
which can be written as 𝑏 = 24 - 100
24. This is equivalent to 𝑏 = 24 - 0.824, or 𝑏 = 4.8. It's also given that the number 𝑎 is
190% greater than the number 𝑏. It follows that 𝑎 is equal to 𝑏 plus 190% of 𝑏. Since 𝑏 = 4.8, this can be written as
190
𝑎 = 4.8 + 4.8. This is equivalent to 𝑎 = 4.8 + 1.94.8, or 𝑎 = 13.92.
100

Choice A is incorrect. This would be the value of 𝑎 if 𝑎 were 190% of 𝑏, not 190% greater than 𝑏.

Choice C is incorrect. This is 190 - 80% of 24.

Choice D is incorrect. This would be the value of 𝑎 if 𝑏 were 80% of 24, not 80% less than 24, and 𝑎 were 190% of 𝑏, not
190% greater than 𝑏.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID ecbdbe84
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and One-variable data:

Data Analysis Distributions and
measures of center
and spread

ID: ecbdbe84

The table shown summarizes the number of employees at each of the restaurants in a town.

Number of employees Number of restaurants

to

to

to

to

to
Which of the following could be the median number of employees for the restaurants in this town?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: ecbdbe84 Answer

Correct Answer: D
Rationale
Choice D is correct. If a data set contains an odd number of data values, the median is represented by the middle data
value in the list when the data values are listed in ascending or descending order. Since the numbers of employees are
given as ranges of values rather than specific values, it's only possible to determine the range in which the median falls,
rather than the exact median. Since there are 17 restaurants included in the data set and the numbers of employees are
listed in ascending order, it follows that the median number of employees will be represented by the ninth restaurant in
the list. Since the first 2 restaurants each have 2 to 7 employees, numbers of employees in the 2 to 7 range would be
represented by the first and second restaurants in the list. The next 4 restaurants each have 8 to 13 employees.
Therefore, numbers of employees in the 8 to 13 range will be represented by the third through sixth restaurants in the list.
The next 2 restaurants each have 14 to 19 employees. Therefore, numbers of employees in the 14 to 19 range will be
represented by the seventh and eighth restaurants in the list. Since the next 7 restaurants each have 20 to 25 employees,
numbers of employees in the 20 to 25 range will be represented by the ninth through fifteenth restaurants in the list. This
means that the ninth restaurant in the list, which has the median number of employees for the restaurants in this town,
has a number of employees in the 20 to 25 range. Of the given choices, the only number of employees in the 20 to 25
range is 21.

Choice A is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice B is incorrect. This is the position of the median in the list, not the value of the median.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID f8a322d9
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and One-variable data:

Data Analysis Distributions and
measures of center
and spread

ID: f8a322d9

Two data sets of integers each are summarized in the histograms shown. For each of the histograms, the first interval
represents the frequency of integers greater than or equal to , but less than . The second interval represents the
frequency of integers greater than or equal to , but less than , and so on. What is the smallest possible difference
between the mean of data set A and the mean of data set B?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: f8a322d9 Answer

Correct Answer: B
Rationale
Choice B is correct. The histograms shown have the same shape, but data set A contains values between 20 and 60 and
data set B contains values between 10 and 50. Thus, the mean of data set A is greater than the mean of data set B.
Therefore, the smallest possible difference between the mean of data set A and the mean of data set B is the difference
between the smallest possible mean of data set A and the greatest possible mean of data set B. In data set A, since
there are 3 integers in the interval greater than or equal to 20 but less than 30, 4 integers greater than or equal to 30 but
less than 40, 7 integers greater than or equal to 40 but less than 50, and 9 integers greater than or equal to 50 but less
3 · 20 + 4 · 30 + 7 · 40 + 9 · 50
than 60, the smallest possible mean for data set A is . In data set B, since there are 3 integers
23
greater than or equal to 10 but less than 20, 4 integers greater than or equal to 20 but less than 30, 7 integers greater
than or equal to 30 but less than 40, and 9 integers greater than or equal to 40 but less than 50, the largest possible mean
3 · 19 + 4 · 29 + 7 · 39 + 9 · 49
for data set B is 23
. Therefore, the smallest possible difference between the mean of data set A and
3 · 20 + 4 · 30 + 7 · 40 + 9 · 50 3 · 19 + 4 · 29 + 7 · 39 + 9 · 49
the mean of data set B is - , which is equivalent to
23 23
3 · 20 - 3 · 19 + 4 · 30 - 4 · 29 + 7 · 40 - 7 · 39 + 9 · 50 - 9 · 49 320 - 19 + 430 - 29 + 740 - 39 + 950 - 49 23
23
. This expression can be rewritten as 23
, or 23
, which
is equal to 1. Therefore, the smallest possible difference between the mean of data set A and the mean of data set B is 1.

Choice A is incorrect. This is the smallest possible difference between the ranges, not the means, of the data sets.

Choice C is incorrect. This is the difference between the greatest possible mean, not the smallest possible mean, of data
set A and the greatest possible mean of data set B.

Choice D is incorrect. This is the smallest possible difference between the sum of the values in data set A and the sum of
the values in data set B, not the smallest possible difference between the means.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 3638f413
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and Ratios, rates,

Data Analysis proportional
relationships, and
units

ID: 3638f413

Jeremy deposited x dollars in his investment account on January 1, 2001. The

amount of money in the account doubled each year until Jeremy had 480 dollars
in his investment account on January 1, 2005. What is the value of x ?

ID: 3638f413 Answer

Rationale

The correct answer is 30. The situation can be represented by the equation , where the 2 represents the fact
that the amount of money in the account doubled each year and the 4 represents the fact that there are 4 years between
January 1, 2001, and January 1, 2005. Simplifying gives . Therefore, .

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 1142af44
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and One-variable data:

Data Analysis Distributions and
measures of center
and spread

ID: 1142af44

Value Frequency

1 a

2 2a

3 3a

4 2a

5 a

The frequency distribution above summarizes a set of data, where a is a positive

integer. How much greater is the mean of the set of data than the median?

A. 0

B. 1

C. 2

D. 3

ID: 1142af44 Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is correct. Since the frequencies of values less than the middle value, 3, are the same as the frequencies of the
values greater than 3, the set of data has a symmetric distribution. When a set of data has a symmetric distribution, the
mean and median values are equal. Therefore, the mean is 0 greater than the median.

Choices B, C, and D are incorrect and may result from misinterpreting the set of data.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 651d83bb
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and One-variable data:

Data Analysis Distributions and
measures of center
and spread

ID: 651d83bb
Two different teams consisting of 10 members each ran in a race. Each member’s completion time of the race was
recorded. The mean of the completion times for each team was calculated and is shown below.
Team A: 3.41 minutes
Team B: 3.79 minutes

Which of the following MUST be true?

Every member of team A completed the race in less time than any member of team B.
The median time it took the members of team B to complete the race is greater than the median time it took the
members of team A to complete the race.
There is at least one member of team B who took more time to complete the race than some member of team A.

A. III only

B. I and III only

C. II and III only

D. I, II, and III

ID: 651d83bb Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is correct. Since the average time for the 10 members of team A is 3.41 minutes, the sum of the 10 times for
team A is equal to minutes. Since the average time for the 10 members of team B is 3.79 minutes,
the sum of the 10 times for team B is equal to minutes. Since the sum of the 10 times for team B is
greater than the sum of the 10 times for team A, it must be true that at least one of the times for team B must be greater
than one of the times for team A. Thus, statement III is true. However, it’s possible that at least some of the times for
team A were greater than some of the times for team B. For example, all of team A’s times could be 3.41 minutes, and
team B could have 1 time of 3.34 minutes and 9 times of 3.84 minutes. Thus, statement I need not be true. It’s also
possible that the median of the times for team B is less than the median of the times for team A. For example, all of team
A’s times could be 3.41 minutes, and team B could have 6 times of 3.37 minutes and 4 times of 4.42 minutes; then the
median of team B’s times would be 3.37 minutes and the median of team A’s times would be 3.41 minutes. Thus,
statement II need not be true.

Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because neither statement I nor statement II must be true.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 1e8ccffd
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and One-variable data:

Data Analysis Distributions and
measures of center
and spread

ID: 1e8ccffd

The mean score of 8 players in a basketball game was 14.5 points. If the highest
individual score is removed, the mean score of the remaining 7 players becomes
12 points. What was the highest score?

A. 20

B. 24

C. 32

D. 36

ID: 1e8ccffd Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is correct. If the mean score of 8 players is 14.5, then the total of all 8 scores is . If the mean of
7 scores is 12, then the total of all 7 scores is . Since the set of 7 scores was made by removing the highest
score of the set of 8 scores, then the difference between the total of all 8 scores and the total of all 7 scores is equal to
the removed score: .

Choice A is incorrect because if 20 is removed from the group of 8 scores, then the mean score of the remaining 7

players is is approximately 13.71, not 12. Choice B is incorrect because if 24 is removed from the

group of 8 scores, then the mean score of the remaining 7 players is is approximately 13.14, not 12.
Choice D is incorrect because if 36 is removed from the group of 8 scores, then the mean score of the remaining 7

players is or approximately 11.43, not 12.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 1e1027a7
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and Two-variable data:

Data Analysis Models and
scatterplots

ID: 1e1027a7

The scatterplot above shows a company’s ice cream sales d, in dollars, and the
high temperature t, in degrees Celsius (°C), on 12 different days. A line of best fit
for the data is also shown. Which of the following could be an equation of the
line of best fit?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 1e1027a7 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. On the line of best fit, d increases from approximately 480 to 880 between and . The
slope of the line of best fit is the difference in d-values divided by the difference in t-values, which gives

, or approximately 33. Writing the equation of the line of best fit in slope-intercept form gives
, where b is the y-coordinate of the y-intercept. This equation is satisfied by all points on the line, so
when . Thus, , which is equivalent to . Subtracting 396 from both sides of this
equation gives . Therefore, an equation for the line of best fit could be .

Choice A is incorrect and may result from an error in calculating the slope and misidentifying the y-coordinate of the y-
intercept of the graph as the value of d at rather than the value of d at . Choice B is incorrect and may result
from using the smallest value of t on the graph as the slope and misidentifying the y-coordinate of the y-intercept of the
graph as the value of d at rather than the value of d at . Choice C is incorrect and may result from
misidentifying the y-coordinate of the y-intercept as the smallest value of d on the graph.
Question Difficulty: Hard
Question ID e7d48c8a
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and One-variable data:

Data Analysis Distributions and
measures of center
and spread

ID: e7d48c8a

The dot plot represents a data set of the number of bursts for eruptions of a steam vent. If an additional eruption with
bursts is added to this data set to create a new data set of eruptions, which of the following measures will be
greater for the new data set than for the original data set?
The median number of bursts The mean number of bursts

A. I and II

B. I only

C. II only

D. Neither I nor II

ID: e7d48c8a Answer

Correct Answer: C
Rationale
Choice C is correct. It’s given that the dot plot represents a data set of the number of bursts for 13 eruptions of a steam
vent. The median of a data set with an odd number of elements is the middle element when the elements are in
numerical order. For 13 elements in numerical order, this is the 7th element. For this data set, the first 4 elements have a
value of 1, and the next 5 elements have a value of 2. Thus, the 7th element in the ordered data set is 2 and the median
number of bursts for the original data set is 2. If an additional eruption with 11 bursts is added to this data set to create a
new data set of 14 eruptions, the median of the new data set will be between the 7th and 8th elements in the ordered set,
which will also be 2. Therefore, the median number of bursts for the new data set will be the same as the median number
of bursts for the original data set. The mean number of bursts for the original data set is found by adding the values of all
13 elements and dividing that sum by the number of elements, 13. Since the data is shown in a dot plot, the sum of the
values of the elements can be found by multiplying each element's value by its frequency: 14 + 25 + 32 + 41 + 51, or 29.
29
Therefore, the mean number of bursts for the original data set is . If an additional eruption with 11 bursts is added to
13
29 + 11 40
this data set to create a new data set of 14 bursts, the mean number of bursts for the new data set is 14
, or 14
. Since
40 29
> , the mean number of bursts for the new data set is greater than the mean number of bursts for the original data
14 13
set. Therefore, of the median number of bursts and the mean number of bursts, only the mean number of bursts is
greater for the new data set than for the original data set.

Choice A is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice D is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 3f775bbf
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and Ratios, rates,

Data Analysis proportional
relationships, and
units

ID: 3f775bbf

Power capacity
State
Low Medium High Total

Texas 4 2 3 9

California 1 0 1 2

Oregon 1 0 1 2

Indiana 0 2 0 2

Colorado 1 1 0 2

Iowa 2 0 0 2

Oklahoma 1 0 0 1

Total 10 5 5 20

The table shows the distribution, by location and power capacity (maximum rate
of power generation) of the twenty largest wind projects in the United States in
2013. The total power capacity of the nine wind projects located in Texas was
4,952 megawatts (MW), and the total power capacity of the twenty wind projects
was 11,037 MW in 2013. The amount of energy produced in one hour at a rate of
one megawatt is one megawatt-hour. If each of the nine Texas wind projects in
2013 had operated continuously for 24 hours at the maximum rate of power
generation, approximately how many megawatt-hours of energy would the nine
projects have produced?

A. 200

B. 5,000

C. 11,000

D. 120,000

ID: 3f775bbf Answer

Correct Answer: D
Rationale
Choice D is correct. It’s given that the total power capacity of the nine wind projects in Texas was 4,952 megawatts.
Therefore, if all nine Texas projects operated continuously for 1 hour, the amount of energy produced would be 4,952
megawatt-hours. It follows that, if all nine Texas projects operated continuously for 24 hours, the amount of energy
produced, in megawatt-hours, would be , which is closest to 120,000.

Choice A is incorrect. This is approximately the amount of energy produced for the nine projects divided by 24 hours.
Choice B is incorrect. This is approximately the amount of energy produced for the nine projects. Choice C is incorrect.
This is approximately the given amount of energy produced for all twenty projects in the table.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 8637294f
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and Ratios, rates,

Data Analysis proportional
relationships, and
units

ID: 8637294f

If and , what is the value of ?

ID: 8637294f Answer

Correct Answer: .0625, 1/16

Rationale
4𝑎 𝑎 4𝑎 𝑎
The correct answer is .0625 . It's given that 𝑏
= 6.7 and
𝑏𝑛
= 26.8. The equation
𝑏
= 6.7 can be rewritten as 4 = 6.7.
𝑏
𝑎 𝑎 𝑎1
Dividing both sides of this equation by 4 yields 𝑏
= 1.675. The equation
𝑏𝑛
= 26.8 can be rewritten as
𝑏𝑛
= 26.8.
𝑎 1 1.675
Substituting 1.675 for in this equation yields 1.675 = 26.8, or = 26.8. Multiplying both sides of this equation by 𝑛
𝑏 𝑛 𝑛
yields 1.675 = 26.8𝑛. Dividing both sides of this equation by 26.8 yields 𝑛 = 0.0625. Therefore, the value of 𝑛 is 0.0625.
Note that .0625, 0.062, 0.063, and 1/16 are examples of ways to enter a correct answer.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 6626cac3
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and Probability and

Data Analysis conditional
probability

ID: 6626cac3

Phone Email

Dinner
55% 80%
dance

Football
20% 10%
game

Picnic 20% 5%

Pool
5% 5%
party

Total 100% 100%

An alumni association survey asked each high school graduate to select the one activity he or she
preferred for the association’s next event. Some of the people responded by phone, and the others
responded by email. The table above shows the distribution of preferred activity, in percent, for each
response type used. For the survey, the number of email responses was twice the number of phone
responses. If a person who preferred a picnic is selected at random, what is the probability that the
person responded by email?

ID: 6626cac3 Answer

Rationale

The correct answer is . It’s given that the number of email responses is twice the number of phone responses.
Therefore, if the number of phone responses is p, then the number of email responses is . The table shows that 20%
of people who responded by phone preferred a picnic. It follows that the expression represents the number of
these people. The table also shows that 5% of the people who responded by email preferred a picnic. The expression
, or , represents the number of these people. Therefore, a total of , or people preferred
a picnic. Thus, the probability of selecting at random a person who responded by email from the people who preferred a

picnic is , or . Note that 1/3, .3333, and 0.333 are examples of ways to enter a correct answer.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 308084c5
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and Inference from

Data Analysis sample statistics and
margin of error

ID: 308084c5

Sample Percent in favor Margin of error

A 52% 4.2%

B 48% 1.6%

The results of two random samples of votes for a proposition are shown above.
The samples were selected from the same population, and the margins of error
were calculated using the same method. Which of the following is the most
appropriate reason that the margin of error for sample A is greater than the
margin of error for sample B?

A. Sample A had a smaller number of votes that could not be recorded.

B. Sample A had a higher percent of favorable responses.

C. Sample A had a larger sample size.

D. Sample A had a smaller sample size.

ID: 308084c5 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. Sample size is an appropriate reason for the margin of error to change. In general, a smaller sample
size increases the margin of error because the sample may be less representative of the whole population.

Choice A is incorrect. The margin of error will depend on the size of the sample of recorded votes, not the number of
votes that could not be recorded. In any case, the smaller number of votes that could not be recorded for sample A would
tend to decrease, not increase, the comparative size of the margin of error. Choice B is incorrect. Since the percent in
favor for sample A is the same distance from 50% as the percent in favor for sample B, the percent of favorable
responses doesn’t affect the comparative size of the margin of error for the two samples. Choice C is incorrect. If sample
A had a larger margin of error than sample B, then sample A would tend to be less representative of the population.
Therefore, sample A is not likely to have a larger sample size.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID e635aede
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and Percentages

Data Analysis

ID: e635aede

In , Zinah earned more than in , and in Zinah earned more than in . If Zinah earned times
as much in as in , what is the value of ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: e635aede Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. It’s given that in 2008 Zinah earned 14% more than in 2007. Let ℎ represent the amount Zinah earned
in 2007 and let 𝑗 represent the amount that Zinah earned in 2008. This situation can be represented by the equation
14
𝑗=1+
100
ℎ, or 𝑗 = 1.14ℎ. It’s also given that in 2009 Zinah earned 4% more than in 2008. Let 𝑘 represent the amount
4
Zinah earned in 2009. This situation can be represented by the equation 𝑘 = 1 + 100 𝑗, or 𝑘 = 1.04𝑗. Substituting 1.14ℎ for 𝑗
in the equation 𝑘 = 1.04𝑗 yields 𝑘 = 1.041.14ℎ, or 𝑘 = 1.1856ℎ. If Zinah earned 𝑦 times as much in 2009 as in 2007, then
the value of 𝑦 is 1.1856.

Choice A is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 7d721177
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and Ratios, rates,

Data Analysis proportional
relationships, and
units

ID: 7d721177

The density of a certain type of wood is kilograms per cubic meter. A sample of this type of wood is in the shape of
a cube and has a mass of kilograms. To the nearest hundredth of a meter, what is the length of one edge of this
sample?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 7d721177 Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
3
Choice B is correct. It’s given that the density of a certain type of wood is 353 kilograms per cubic meter kg/m , and a
sample of this type of wood has a mass of 345 kg. Let 𝑥 represent the volume, in m3 , of the sample. It follows that the
relationship between the density, mass, and volume of this sample can be written
353 kg 345 kg 345
as 1 m3
=
𝑥 m3
, or 353 = 𝑥
. Multiplying both sides of this equation by 𝑥 yields 353𝑥 = 345. Dividing both sides of this
345 345
equation by 353 yields 𝑥 = 353
. Therefore, the volume of this sample is 353 m3 . Since it’s given that the sample of this
type of wood is a cube, it follows that the length of one edge of this sample can be found using the volume formula for a
cube, 𝑉 = 𝑠3 , where 𝑉 represents the volume, in m3 , and 𝑠 represents the length, in m, of one edge of the cube.
345 345 345
Substituting 353
for 𝑉 in this formula yields
353
= 𝑠3 . Taking the cube root of both sides of this equation yields 3√
353
= 𝑠,

or 𝑠 ≈ 0 . 99. Therefore, the length of one edge of this sample to the nearest hundredth of a meter is 0.99.

Choices A, C, and D are incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 67c0200a
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and Percentages

Data Analysis

ID: 67c0200a

The number is less than the positive number . The number is greater than . The number is how many
times ?

ID: 67c0200a Answer

Correct Answer: .54, 27/50

Rationale
70
The correct answer is .54 . It's given that the number 𝑎 is 70% less than the positive number 𝑏. Therefore, 𝑎 = 1 - 100 𝑏,
which is equivalent to 𝑎 = 1 - 0.70𝑏, or 𝑎 = 0.30𝑏. It's also given that the number 𝑐 is 80% greater than 𝑎. Therefore,
80
𝑐=1+
100
𝑎, which is equivalent to 𝑐 = 1 + 0.80𝑎, or 𝑐 = 1.80𝑎. Since 𝑎 = 0.30𝑏, substituting 0.30𝑏 for 𝑎 in the equation
𝑐 = 1.80𝑎 yields 𝑐 = 1.800.30𝑏, or 𝑐 = 0.54𝑏. Thus, 𝑐 is 0.54 times 𝑏. Note that .54 and 27/50 are examples of ways to
enter a correct answer.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 40e7a1a9
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and Percentages

Data Analysis

ID: 40e7a1a9

is greater than . What is the value of ?

ID: 40e7a1a9 Answer

Correct Answer: 600

Rationale
𝑝
The correct answer is 600. It’s given that 210 is 𝑝% greater than 30. It follows that 210 = 1 + 30. Dividing both sides of
100
𝑝 𝑝
this equation by 30 yields 7 = 1 + . Subtracting 1 from both sides of this equation yields 6= . Multiplying both
100 100
sides of this equation by 100 yields 𝑝 = 600. Therefore, the value of 𝑝 is 600.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID bf47ad54
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and One-variable data:

Data Analysis Distributions and
measures of center
and spread

ID: bf47ad54

Each of the following frequency tables represents a data set. Which data set has the greatest mean?

Value Frequency
A.

Value Frequency
B.

Value Frequency
C.

D. Value Frequency

ID: bf47ad54 Answer

Correct Answer: A
Rationale
Choice A is correct. The tables in choices B, C, and D each represent a data set where the values 80 and 90 have the
same frequency and the values 70 and 100 have the same frequency. It follows that each of these data sets is symmetric
around the value halfway between 80 and 90, or 85. When a data set is symmetric around a value, that value is the mean
of the data set. Therefore, the data sets represented by the tables in choices B, C, and D each have a mean of 85. The
table in choice A represents a data set where the value 90 has a greater frequency than the value 80 and the value 100
has a greater frequency than the value 70. It follows that this data set has a mean greater than 85. Therefore, of the given
choices, choice A represents the data set with the greatest mean.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice D is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 7d68096f
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and Evaluating statistical

Data Analysis claims:
Observational
studies and
experiments

ID: 7d68096f

A trivia tournament organizer wanted to study the relationship between the number of points a team scores in a trivia
round and the number of hours that a team practices each week. For the study, the organizer selected teams at
random from all trivia teams in a certain tournament. The table displays the information for the teams in the sample
that practiced for at least hours per week.

Number of points per round

Hours practiced
6 to 13 points 14 or more points Total

3 to 5 hours

More than 5 hours

Total
Which of the following is the largest population to which the results of the study can be generalized?

A. All trivia teams in the tournament that scored or more points in the round

B. The trivia teams in the sample

C. The trivia teams in the sample that practiced for at least hours per week

D. All trivia teams in the tournament

ID: 7d68096f Answer

Correct Answer: D
Rationale
Choice D is correct. It's given that the organizer selected 55 teams at random from all trivia teams in the tournament. A
table is also given displaying the information for the 40 teams in the sample that practiced for at least 3 hours per week.
Selecting a sample of a reasonable size at random to use for a survey allows the results from that survey to be applied to
the population from which the sample was selected, but not beyond this population. Thus, only the sampling method
information is necessary to determine the largest population to which the results of the study can be generalized. Since
the organizer selected the sample at random from all trivia teams in the tournament, the largest population to which the
results of the study can be generalized is all trivia teams in the tournament.

Choice A is incorrect. The sample was selected at random from all trivia teams in the tournament, not just from the
teams that scored an average of 14 or more points per round.

Choice B is incorrect. If a study uses a sample selected at random from a population, the results of the study can be
generalized to the population, not just the sample.

Choice C is incorrect. If a study uses a sample selected at random from a population, the results of the study can be
generalized to the population, not just a subset of the sample.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 585de39a
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and Probability and

Data Analysis conditional
probability

ID: 585de39a

On May 10, 2015, there were 83 million Internet subscribers in Nigeria. The major
Internet providers were MTN, Globacom, Airtel, Etisalat, and Visafone. By
September 30, 2015, the number of Internet subscribers in Nigeria had increased
to 97 million. If an Internet subscriber in Nigeria on September 30, 2015, is
selected at random, the probability that the person selected was an MTN
subscriber is 0.43. There were p million MTN subscribers in Nigeria on
September 30, 2015. To the nearest integer, what is the value of p ?

ID: 585de39a Answer

Rationale
The correct answer is 42. It’s given that in Nigeria on September 30, 2015, the probability of selecting an MTN subscriber
from all Internet subscribers is 0.43, that there were p million, or , MTN subscribers, and that there were 97
million, or 97,000,000, Internet subscribers. The probability of selecting an MTN subscriber from all Internet subscribers
can be found by dividing the number of MTN subscribers by the total number of Internet subscribers. Therefore, the

equation can be used to solve for p. Dividing 1,000,000 from the numerator and denominator of

the expression on the left-hand side yields . Multiplying both sides of this equation by 97 yields
, which, to the nearest integer, is 42.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 4ff597db
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and One-variable data:

Data Analysis Distributions and
measures of center
and spread

ID: 4ff597db

The mean amount of time that the 20 employees of a construction company

have worked for the company is 6.7 years. After one of the employees leaves the
company, the mean amount of time that the remaining employees have worked
for the company is reduced to 6.25 years. How many years did the employee
who left the company work for the company?

A. 0.45

B. 2.30

C. 9.00

D. 15.25

ID: 4ff597db Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. The mean amount of time that the 20 employees worked for the company is 6.7 years. This means
that the total number of years all 20 employees worked for the company is (6.7)(20) = 134 years. After the employee left,
the mean amount of time that the remaining 19 employees worked for the company is 6.25 years. Therefore, the total
number of years all 19 employees worked for the company is (6.25)(19) = 118.75 years. It follows that the number of
years that the employee who left had worked for the company is 134 – 118.75 = 15.25 years.

Choice A is incorrect; this is the change in the mean, which isn’t the same as the amount of time worked by the employee
who left. Choice B is incorrect and likely results from making the assumption that there were still 20 employees, rather
than 19, at the company after the employee left and then subtracting the original mean of 6.7 from that result. Choice C
is incorrect and likely results from making the assumption that there were still 20 employees, rather than 19, at the
company after the employee left.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 7b52985c
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and Two-variable data:

Data Analysis Models and
scatterplots

ID: 7b52985c

The scatterplot shows the relationship between the length of time , in hours, a certain bird spent in flight and the
number of days after January , .

What is the average rate of change, in hours per day, of the length of time the bird spent in flight on January to the
length of time the bird spent in flight on January ?

ID: 7b52985c Answer

Correct Answer: 4.5, 9/2

Rationale
9
The correct answer is 2 . It's given that the scatterplot shows the relationship between the length of time 𝑦, in hours, a
certain bird spent in flight and the number of days after January 11, 𝑥. Since January 13 is 2 days after January 11, it
follows that January 13 corresponds to an x-value of 2 in the scatterplot. In the scatterplot, when 𝑥 = 2, the
corresponding value of 𝑦 is 6. In other words, on January 13, the bird spent 6 hours in flight. Since January 15 is 4 days
after January 11, it follows that January 15 corresponds to an x-value of 4 in the scatterplot. In the scatterplot, when
𝑥 = 4, the corresponding value of 𝑦 is 15. In other words, on January 15, the bird spent 15 hours in flight. Therefore, the
average rate of change, in hours per day, of the length of time the bird spent in flight on January 13 to the length of time
the bird spent in flight on January 15 is the difference in the length of time, in hours, the bird spent in flight divided by the
15 - 6 9
difference in the number of days after January 11, or 4-2
, which is equivalent to . Note that 9/2 and 4.5 are examples of
2
ways to enter a correct answer.
Question Difficulty: Hard
Question ID 7ce2830a
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and Evaluating statistical

Data Analysis claims:
Observational
studies and
experiments

ID: 7ce2830a

A psychologist designed and conducted a study to determine whether playing a

certain educational game increases middle school students’ accuracy in adding
fractions. For the study, the psychologist chose a random sample of 35 students
from all of the students at one of the middle schools in a large city. The
psychologist found that students who played the game showed significant
improvement in accuracy when adding fractions. What is the largest group to
which the results of the study can be generalized?

A. The 35 students in the sample

B. All students at the school

C. All middle school students in the city

D. All students in the city

ID: 7ce2830a Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is correct. The largest group to which the results of a study can be generalized is the population from which the
random sample was chosen. In this case, the psychologist chose a random sample from all students at one particular
middle school. Therefore, the largest group to which the results can be generalized is all the students at the school.

Choice A is incorrect because this isn’t the largest group the results can be generalized to. Choices C and D are incorrect
because these groups are larger than the population from which the random sample was chosen. Therefore, the sample
isn’t representative of these groups.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 6a715bed
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and Probability and

Data Analysis conditional
probability

ID: 6a715bed

The table summarizes the distribution of age and assigned group for participants in a study.

– years – years years Total

Group A

Group B

Group C

Total
One of these participants will be selected at random. What is the probability of selecting a participant from group A,
given that the participant is at least years of age? (Express your answer as a decimal or fraction, not as a percent.)

ID: 6a715bed Answer

Correct Answer: .3833, 23/60

Rationale
23
The correct answer is 60
. It's given that one of the participants will be selected at random. The probability of selecting a
participant from group A given that the participant is at least 10 years of age is the number of participants in group A
who are at least 10 years of age divided by the total number of participants who are at least 10 years of age. The table
shows that in group A, there are 14 participants who are 10–19 years of age and 9 participants who are 20 + years of
age. Therefore, there are 14 + 9, or 23, participants in group A who are at least 10 years of age. The table also shows that
there are a total of 30 participants who are 10–19 years of age and 30 participants who are 20 + years of age. Therefore,
there are a total of 30 + 30, or 60, participants who are at least 10 years of age. It follows that the probability of selecting
23
a participant from group A given that the participant is at least 10 years of age is 60
. Note that 23/60, .3833, and 0.383
are examples of ways to enter a correct answer.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID c7c6445f
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and Ratios, rates,

Data Analysis proportional
relationships, and
units

ID: c7c6445f

A certain town has an area of square miles. What is the area, in square yards, of this town?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: c7c6445f Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. Since the number of yards in 1 mile is 1,760, the number of square yards in 1 square mile is
( 1,760 ) ( 1,760 ) = 3,097,600. Therefore, if the area of the town is 4.36 square miles, it is 4.36 ( 3,097,600 ) = 13,505,536
, in square yards.

Choice A is incorrect and may result from dividing the number of yards in a mile by the square mileage of the town.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from multiplying the number of yards in a mile by the square mileage of the town.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from dividing the number of square yards in a square mile by the square mileage of
the town.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 5267c3c7
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and Percentages

Data Analysis

ID: 5267c3c7

The result of increasing the quantity by is . What is the value of ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 5267c3c7 Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is correct. It's given that the result of increasing the quantity 𝑥 by 400% is 60. This can be written as
400
𝑥+ 𝑥 = 60, which is equivalent to 𝑥 + 4𝑥 = 60, or 5𝑥 = 60. Dividing each side of this equation by 5 yields 𝑥 = 12.
100
Therefore, the value of 𝑥 is 12.

Choice B is incorrect. The result of increasing the quantity 15 by 400% is 75, not 60.

Choice C is incorrect. The result of increasing the quantity 240 by 400% is 1,200, not 60.

Choice D is incorrect. The result of increasing the quantity 340 by 400% is 1,700, not 60.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID d0430601
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and Two-variable data:

Data Analysis Models and
scatterplots

ID: d0430601

Each dot in the scatterplot above represents the temperature and the number of
people who visited a beach in Lagos, Nigeria, on one of eleven different days.
The line of best fit for the data is also shown. The line of best fit for the data has
a slope of approximately 57. According to this estimate, how many additional
people per day are predicted to visit the beach for each 5°C increase in average
temperature?

ID: d0430601 Answer

Rationale
The correct answer is 285. The number of people predicted to visit the beach each day is represented by the y-values of
the line of best fit, and the average temperature, in degrees Celsius ( ), is represented by the x-values. Since the slope
of the line of best fit is approximately 57, the y-value, or the number of people predicted to visit the beach each day,
increases by 57 for every x-value increase of 1, or every increase in average temperature. Therefore, an increase of
in average temperature corresponds to a y-value increase of additional people per day predicted to
visit the beach.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 4626102e
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and One-variable data:

Data Analysis Distributions and
measures of center
and spread

ID: 4626102e

The dot plot represents the values in data set A. Data set B is created by adding to each of the values in data set A.
Which of the following correctly compares the medians and the ranges of data sets A and B?

The median of data set B is equal to the median of data set A, and the range of data set B is equal to the range of
A. data set A.

The median of data set B is equal to the median of data set A, and the range of data set B is greater than the range of
B. data set A.

The median of data set B is greater than the median of data set A, and the range of data set B is equal to the range of
C. data set A.

The median of data set B is greater than the median of data set A, and the range of data set B is greater than the
D. range of data set A.

ID: 4626102e Answer

Correct Answer: C
Rationale
Choice C is correct. The median of a data set with an odd number of values, in ascending or descending order, is the
middle value of the data set, and the range of a data set is the positive difference between the maximum and minimum
values in the data set. Since the dot plot shown gives the values in data set A in ascending order and there are 15 values
in the data set, the eighth value in data set A, 23, is the median. The maximum value in data set A is 26 and the minimum
value is 22, so the range of data set A is 26 - 22, or 4. It’s given that data set B is created by adding 56 to each of the
values in data set A. Increasing each of the 15 values in data set A by 56 will also increase its median value by 56 making
the median of data set B 79. Increasing each value of data set A by 56 does not change the range, since the maximum
value of data set B is 26 + 56, or 82, and the minimum value is 22 + 56, or 78, making the range of data set B 82 - 78, or 4.
Therefore, the median of data set B is greater than the median of data set A, and the range of data set B is equal to the
range of data set A.

Choice A is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice D is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 5154615f
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and Ratios, rates,

Data Analysis proportional
relationships, and
units

ID: 5154615f

To study fluctuations in composition, samples of pumice were taken from locations and cut in the shape of a cube.
The length of the edge of one of these cubes is centimeters. This cube has a density of grams per cubic
centimeter. What is the mass of this cube, in grams?

ID: 5154615f Answer

Correct Answer: 6.21

Rationale
The correct answer is 6.21. It’s given that the samples of pumice were cut in the shape of a cube. It's also given that the
3
length of the edge of one of these cubes is 3.000 centimeters. Therefore, the volume of this cube is 3.000 centimeters ,
or 27 cubic centimeters. Since the density of this cube is 0.230 grams per cubic centimeter, it follows that the mass of
0.230 grams
this cube is 1 cubic centimeter
27 cubic centimeters, or 6.21 grams.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 55818046
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and Percentages

Data Analysis

ID: 55818046
According to the 2010 Census, the adult population aged 18 years or greater of the United States in 2010 was
234,564,071. In 2010, a survey was conducted among a randomly chosen sample of adults aged 18 years or greater in
the United States about their preference to live in a warm climate or a cool climate. The table below displays a summary
of the survey results.
Climate Preferences
No
Warm Cool Total
preference

18–35 years
295 168 45 508
old

36–50 years
246 123 41 410
old

51–65 years
238 117 48 403
old

Greater than
137 78 64 279
65 years old

Total 916 486 198 1,600

Which of the following is closest to the difference between the percentage of

adults aged 18–50 years who responded “warm” and the percentage of adults
aged 51 years or greater who responded “warm”?

A. 4%

B. 5%

C. 10%

D. 18%

ID: 55818046 Answer

Correct Answer: A
Rationale

Choice A is correct. The percentage of adults aged 18–50 who responded “warm” is , or about

58.9%. The percentage of adults aged 51 years or greater who responded “warm” is , or about
55.0%. The difference between 58.9% and 55.0% is 3.9%. Of the answer choices, 4% is closest to this number.

Choices B, C, and D are incorrect and may result from calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 20845d36
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and Percentages

Data Analysis

ID: 20845d36

The number is less than the positive number . The number is greater than . The number is how many
times ?

ID: 20845d36 Answer

Correct Answer: .48, 12/25

Rationale
70
The correct answer is .48 . It's given that the number 𝑎 is 70% less than the positive number 𝑏. Therefore, 𝑎 = 1 - 100 𝑏,
which is equivalent to 𝑎 = 1 - 0.70𝑏, or 𝑎 = 0.30𝑏. It's also given that the number 𝑐 is 60% greater than 𝑎. Therefore,
60
𝑐 = 1 + 100 𝑎, which is equivalent to 𝑐 = 1 + 0.60𝑎, or 𝑐 = 1.60𝑎. Since 𝑎 = 0.30𝑏, substituting 0.30𝑏 for 𝑎 in the equation
𝑐 = 1.60𝑎 yields 𝑐 = 1.600.30𝑏, or 𝑐 = 0.48𝑏. Thus, 𝑐 is 0.48 times 𝑏. Note that .48 and 12/25 are examples of ways to
enter a correct answer.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID aa43b41f
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and Evaluating statistical

Data Analysis claims:
Observational
studies and
experiments

ID: aa43b41f

Near the end of a US cable news show, the host invited viewers to respond to a
poll on the show’s website that asked, “Do you support the new federal policy
discussed during the show?” At the end of the show, the host reported that 28%
responded “Yes,” and 70% responded “No.” Which of the following best explains
why the results are unlikely to represent the sentiments of the population of the
United States?

A. The percentages do not add up to 100%, so any possible conclusions from the poll are invalid.

B. Those who responded to the poll were not a random sample of the population of the United States.

C. There were not 50% “Yes” responses and 50% “No” responses.

D. The show did not allow viewers enough time to respond to the poll.

ID: aa43b41f Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is correct. In order for the poll results from a sample of a population to represent the entire population, the
sample must be representative of the population. A sample that is randomly selected from a population is more likely
than a sample of the type described to represent the population. In this case, the people who responded were people with
access to cable television and websites, which aren’t accessible to the entire population. Moreover, the people who
responded also chose to watch the show and respond to the poll. The people who made these choices aren’t
representative of the entire population of the United States because they were not a random sample of the population of
the United States.

Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they present reasons unrelated to whether the sample is representative of the
population of the United States.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 50b99b2d
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and Ratios, rates,

Data Analysis proportional
relationships, and
units

ID: 50b99b2d

Objects R and S each travel at a constant speed. The speed of object R is half the speed of object S. Object R travels a
distance of inches in seconds. Which expression represents the time, in seconds, it takes object S to travel a
distance of inches?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 50b99b2d Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is correct. It's given that object R travels a distance of 4𝑥 inches in 𝑦 seconds. This speed can be written as
4𝑥 inches
𝑦 seconds
. It's given that the speed of object R is half the speed of object S. It follows that the speed of object S is twice
4𝑥 inches 8𝑥 inches
the speed of object R, which is 2 𝑦 seconds
, or 𝑦 seconds
. Let 𝑛 represent the time, in seconds, it takes object S to travel a
8𝑥 inches 24𝑥 inches
distance of 24𝑥 inches. The value of 𝑛 can be found by solving the equation = , which can be written as
𝑦 seconds 𝑛 seconds
8𝑥 24𝑥
𝑦
=
𝑛
. Multiplying each side of this equation by 𝑛𝑦 yields 8𝑥𝑛 = 24𝑥𝑦. Dividing each side of this equation by 8𝑥 yields
𝑛 = 3𝑦. Therefore, the expression 3𝑦 represents the time, in seconds, it takes object S to travel a distance of 24𝑥 inches.

Choice A is incorrect. This expression represents the time, in seconds, it would take object S to travel a distance of 24𝑥
inches if the speed of object R were twice, not half, the speed of object S.

Choice C is incorrect. This expression represents the time, in seconds, it takes object S to travel a distance of 128𝑥
inches, not 24𝑥 inches.

Choice D is incorrect. This expression represents the time, in seconds, it takes object R, not object S, to travel a distance
of 24𝑥 inches.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 5dc386fb
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and Probability and

Data Analysis conditional
probability

ID: 5dc386fb
The table below shows the distribution of US states according to whether they have a state-level sales tax and a state-
level income tax.
2013 State-Level Taxes
State sales tax No state sales tax

State income tax 39 4

No state income tax 6 1

To the nearest tenth of a percent, what percent of states with a state-level sales
tax do not have a state-level income tax?

A. 6.0%

B. 12.0%

C. 13.3%

D. 14.0%

ID: 5dc386fb Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is correct. The sum of the number of states with a state-level sales tax is . Of these states, 6

don’t have a state-level income tax. Therefore, , or about 13.3%, of states with a state-level sales tax
don’t have a state-level income tax.

Choice A is incorrect. This is the number of states that have a state-level sales tax and no state-level income tax. Choice
B is incorrect. This is the percent of states that have a state-level sales tax and no state-level income tax. Choice D is
incorrect. This is the percent of states that have no state-level income tax.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 98958ae8
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and One-variable data:

Data Analysis Distributions and
measures of center
and spread

ID: 98958ae8

Data set A consists of the heights of objects and has a mean of meters. Data set B consists of the heights of
objects and has a mean of meters. Data set C consists of the heights of the objects from data sets A and B.
What is the mean, in meters, of data set C?

ID: 98958ae8 Answer

Correct Answer: 41

Rationale
The correct answer is 41. The mean of a data set is computed by dividing the sum of the values in the data set by the
number of values in the data set. It’s given that data set A consists of the heights of 75 objects and has a mean of 25
𝑥
meters. This can be represented by the equation = 25, where 𝑥 represents the sum of the heights of the objects, in
75
meters, in data set A. Multiplying both sides of this equation by 75 yields 𝑥 = 7525, or 𝑥 = 1,875 meters. Therefore, the
sum of the heights of the objects in data set A is 1,875 meters. It’s also given that data set B consists of the heights of 50
𝑦
objects and has a mean of 65 meters. This can be represented by the equation = 65, where 𝑦 represents the sum of
50
the heights of the objects, in meters, in data set B. Multiplying both sides of this equation by 50 yields 𝑦 = 5065, or
𝑦 = 3,250 meters. Therefore, the sum of the heights of the objects in data set B is 3,250 meters. Since it’s given that data
set C consists of the heights of the 125 objects from data sets A and B, it follows that the mean of data set C is the sum
of the heights of the objects, in meters, in data sets A and B divided by the number of objects represented in data sets A
1,875 + 3,250
and B, or 125
, which is equivalent to 41 meters. Therefore, the mean, in meters, of data set C is 41.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 391ae4b2
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and One-variable data:

Data Analysis Distributions and
measures of center
and spread

ID: 391ae4b2

Data set F consists of integers between and . Data set G consists of all the integers in data set F as well as
the integer . Which of the following must be less for data set F than for data set G?
The mean The median

A. I only

B. II only

C. I and II

D. Neither I nor II

ID: 391ae4b2 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. It's given that data set F consists of 55 integers between 170 and 290 and data set G consists of all
the integers in data set F as well as the integer 10. Since the integer 10 is less than all the integers in data set F, the mean
of data set G must be less than the mean of data set F. Thus, the mean of data set F isn't less than the mean of data set
G. When a data set is in ascending order, the median is between the two middle values when there is an even number of
values and the median is the middle value when there is an odd number of values. It follows that the median of data set F
is either greater than or equal to the median of data set G. Therefore, the median of data set F isn't less than the median
of data set G. Thus, neither the mean nor the median must be less for data set F than for data set G.

Choice A is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 2a59eb45
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and One-variable data:

Data Analysis Distributions and
measures of center
and spread

ID: 2a59eb45

Data set A consists of the heights of buildings and has a mean of meters. Data set B consists of the heights of
buildings and has a mean of meters. Data set C consists of the heights of the buildings from data sets A and B.
What is the mean, in meters, of data set C?

ID: 2a59eb45 Answer

Correct Answer: 44

Rationale
The correct answer is 44. The mean of a data set is computed by dividing the sum of the values in the data set by the
number of values in the data set. It's given that data set A consists of the heights of 75 buildings and has a mean of 32
𝑥
meters. This can be represented by the equation = 32, where 𝑥 represents the sum of the heights of the buildings, in
75
meters, in data set A. Multiplying both sides of this equation by 75 yields 𝑥 = 7532, or 𝑥 = 2,400 meters. Therefore, the
sum of the heights of the buildings in data set A is 2,400 meters. It's also given that data set B consists of the heights of
𝑦
50 buildings and has a mean of 62 meters. This can be represented by the equation = 62, where 𝑦 represents the sum
50
of the heights of the buildings, in meters, in data set B. Multiplying both sides of this equation by 50 yields 𝑦 = 5062, or
𝑦 = 3,100 meters. Therefore, the sum of the heights of the buildings in data set B is 3,100 meters. Since it's given that
data set C consists of the heights of the 125 buildings from data sets A and B, it follows that the mean of data set C is
the sum of the heights of the buildings, in meters, in data sets A and B divided by the number of buildings represented in
2,400 + 3,100
data sets A and B, or 125
, which is equivalent to 44 meters. Therefore, the mean, in meters, of data set C is 44.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 2afd3cec
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and Percentages

Data Analysis

ID: 2afd3cec

After of the original number of marbles in a group were removed from the group, marbles remained in the
group. How many marbles were removed from the group?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 2afd3cec Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is correct. It's given that 20% of the original number of marbles were removed from the group. Let 𝑥 represent
20
the original number of marbles in the group. It follows that 100
𝑥, or 0.20𝑥, marbles were removed from the group.
Therefore, 𝑥 - 0.20𝑥 marbles remained in the group. It's also given that 360 marbles remained in the group. Thus,
𝑥 - 0.20𝑥 = 360, or 0.80𝑥 = 360. Dividing both sides of this equation by 0.80 yields 𝑥 = 450. Substituting 450 for 𝑥 in the
expression 0.20𝑥 yields 0.20 ( 450 ) , or 90. Therefore, 90 marbles were removed from the group.

Choice A is incorrect. This is 20% of the remaining number of marbles.

Choice C is incorrect. This is the original number of marbles, not the number of marbles that were removed.

Choice D is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 2e92cc21
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and Percentages

Data Analysis

ID: 2e92cc21

The number is greater than the number . The number is less than . What is the value of ?

ID: 2e92cc21 Answer

Correct Answer: 9.87, 987/100

Rationale
110
The correct answer is 9.87. It’s given that the number 𝑎 is 110% greater than the number 𝑏. It follows that 𝑎 = 1 + 100 𝑏, or
90
𝑎 = 2.1𝑏. It’s also given that the number 𝑏 is 90% less than 47. It follows that 𝑏 = 1 - 47, or 𝑏 = 0.147, which yields
100
𝑏 = 4.7. Substituting 4.7 for 𝑏 in the equation 𝑎 = 2.1𝑏 yields 𝑎 = 2.14.7, which is equivalent to 𝑎 = 9.87. Therefore, the
value of 𝑎 is 9.87.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 4a422e3e
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and Evaluating statistical

Data Analysis claims:
Observational
studies and
experiments

ID: 4a422e3e

To determine the mean number of children per household in a community,

Tabitha surveyed 20 families at a playground. For the 20 families surveyed, the
mean number of children per household was 2.4. Which of the following
statements must be true?

A. The mean number of children per household in the community is 2.4.

A determination about the mean number of children per household in the community should not be made because
B. the sample size is too small.

The sampling method is flawed and may produce a biased estimate of the mean number of children per household in
C. the community.

The sampling method is not flawed and is likely to produce an unbiased estimate of the mean number of children per
D. household in the community.

ID: 4a422e3e Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is correct. In order to use a sample mean to estimate the mean for a population, the sample must be
representative of the population (for example, a simple random sample). In this case, Tabitha surveyed 20 families in a
playground. Families in the playground are more likely to have children than other households in the community.
Therefore, the sample isn’t representative of the population. Hence, the sampling method is flawed and may produce a
biased estimate.

Choices A and D are incorrect because they incorrectly assume the sampling method is unbiased. Choice B is incorrect
because a sample of size 20 could be large enough to make an estimate if the sample had been representative of all the
families in the community.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID ba0e23b0
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and Percentages

Data Analysis

ID: ba0e23b0

is greater than . What is the value of ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: ba0e23b0 Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
𝑝
Choice B is correct. It's given that 140 is 𝑝% greater than 10. It follows that 140 = 10 + 10, which is equivalent to
100
10
140 = 10 +
100
𝑝, or 140 = 10 + 0.1𝑝. Subtracting 10 from each side of this equation yields 130 = 0.1𝑝. Dividing each side
of this equation by 0.1 yields 1,300 = 𝑝, or 𝑝 = 1,300.

Choice A is incorrect. This would be the value of 𝑝 if 140 were 𝑝% of 10, not 𝑝% greater than 10.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice D is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID c2e7fa6d
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and Ratios, rates,

Data Analysis proportional
relationships, and
units

ID: c2e7fa6d

For an electric field passing through a flat surface perpendicular to it, the electric flux of the electric field through the
surface is the product of the electric field’s strength and the area of the surface. A certain flat surface consists of two
adjacent squares, where the side length, in meters, of the larger square is times the side length, in meters, of the
smaller square. An electric field with strength volts per meter passes uniformly through this surface, which is
perpendicular to the electric field. If the total electric flux of the electric field through this surface is
, what is the electric flux, in , of the electric field through the larger square?

ID: c2e7fa6d Answer

Correct Answer: 4176

Rationale
The correct answer is 4,176. It’s given that the side length of the larger square is 3 times the side length of the smaller
2
square. This means that the area of the larger square is 3 , or 9, times the area of the smaller square. If the area of the
smaller square is represented by 𝑥, then the area of the larger square can be represented by 9𝑥. Therefore, the flat
surface of the two adjacent squares has a total area of 𝑥 + 9𝑥, or 10𝑥. It’s given that an electric field with strength 29.00
volts per meter passes uniformly through this surface and the total electric flux of the electric field through this surface is
4,640 volts · meters. Since it's given that the electric flux is the product of the electric field’s strength and the area of the
surface, the equation 29.0010𝑥 = 4,640, or 290𝑥 = 4,640, can be used to represent this situation. Dividing each side of
this equation by 290 yields 𝑥 = 16. Substituting 16 for 𝑥 in the expression for the area of the larger square, 9𝑥, yields 916,
or 144, square meters. Since the area of the larger square is 144 square meters, the electric flux, in volts · meters, of the
electric field through the larger square can be determined by multiplying the area of the larger square by the strength of
29.00 volts
the electric field. Thus, the electric flux is 144 square meters meter
, or 4,176 volts · meters.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID e821a26d
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and Two-variable data:

Data Analysis Models and
scatterplots

ID: e821a26d
The scatterplot below shows the amount of electric energy generated, in millions of megawatt-hours, by nuclear
sources over a 10‑year period.

Of the following equations, which best models the data in the scatterplot?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: e821a26d Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. The data in the scatterplot roughly fall in the shape of a downward-opening parabola; therefore, the
coefficient for the term must be negative. Based on the location of the data points, the y-intercept of the parabola
should be somewhere between 740 and 760. Therefore, of the equations given, the best model is
.

Choices A and C are incorrect. The positive coefficient of the term means that these equations each define upward-
opening parabolas, whereas a parabola that fits the data in the scatterplot must open downward. Choice B is incorrect
because it defines a parabola with a y-intercept that has a negative y-coordinate, whereas a parabola that fits the data in
the scatterplot must have a y-intercept with a positive y-coordinate.
Question Difficulty: Hard
Question ID 9d935bd8
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and One-variable data:

Data Analysis Distributions and
measures of center
and spread

ID: 9d935bd8

A survey was given to residents of all 50 states asking if they had earned a
bachelor’s degree or higher. The results from 7 of the states are given in the
table above. The median percent of residents who earned a bachelor’s degree or
higher for all 50 states was 26.95%. What is the difference between the median
percent of residents who earned a bachelor’s degree or higher for these 7 states
and the median for all 50 states?

A. 0.05%

B. 0.95%

C. 1.22%

D. 7.45%

ID: 9d935bd8 Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is correct. The median of a set of numbers is the middle value of the set values when ordered from least to
greatest. If the percents in the table are ordered from least to greatest, the middle value is 27.9%. The difference between
27.9% and 26.95% is 0.95%.

Choice A is incorrect and may be the result of calculation errors or not finding the median of the data in the table
correctly. Choice C is incorrect and may be the result of finding the mean instead of the median. Choice D is incorrect and
may be the result of using the middle value of the unordered list.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 8c5dbd3e
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and Percentages

Data Analysis

ID: 8c5dbd3e

The number is greater than the number . The number is less than . What is the value of ?

ID: 8c5dbd3e Answer

Correct Answer: 189/4, 47.25

Rationale
110
The correct answer is 47.25. It’s given that the number 𝑤 is 110% greater than the number 𝑧. It follows that 𝑤 = 1 + 100 𝑧,
55
or 𝑤 = 2.1𝑧. It’s also given that the number 𝑧 is 55% less than 50. It follows that 𝑧 = 1 - 100 50, or 𝑧 = 0.4550, which yields
𝑧 = 22.5. Substituting 22.5 for 𝑧 in the equation 𝑤 = 2.1𝑧 yields 𝑤 = 2.122.5, which is equivalent to 𝑤 = 47.25. Therefore,
the value of 𝑤 is 47.25. Note that 47.25 and 189/4 are examples of ways to enter a correct answer.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 9ba3e283
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and Inference from

Data Analysis sample statistics and
margin of error

ID: 9ba3e283

In State X, Mr. Camp’s eighth-grade class consisting of 26 students was

surveyed and 34.6 percent of the students reported that they had at least two
siblings. The average eighth‑grade class size in the state is 26. If the students in
Mr. Camp’s class are representative of students in the state’s eighth-grade
classes and there are 1,800 eighth-grade classes in the state, which of the
following best estimates the number of eighth‑grade students in the state who
have fewer than two siblings?

A. 16,200

B. 23,400

C. 30,600

D. 46,800

ID: 9ba3e283 Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is correct. It is given that 34.6% of 26 students in Mr. Camp’s class reported that they had at least two siblings.
Since 34.6% of 26 is 8.996, there must have been 9 students in the class who reported having at least two siblings and
17 students who reported that they had fewer than two siblings. It is also given that the average eighth-grade class size
in the state is 26 and that Mr. Camp’s class is representative of all eighth-grade classes in the state. This means that in
each eighth-grade class in the state there are about 17 students who have fewer than two siblings. Therefore, the best
estimate of the number of eighth-grade students in the state who have fewer than two siblings is 17 × (number of eighth-
grade classes in the state), or .

Choice A is incorrect because 16,200 is the best estimate for the number of eighth-grade students in the state who have
at least, not fewer than, two siblings. Choice B is incorrect because 23,400 is half of the estimated total number of
eighth-grade students in the state; however, since the students in Mr. Camp’s class are representative of students in the
eighth-grade classes in the state and more than half of the students in Mr. Camp’s class have fewer than two siblings,
more than half of the students in each eighth-grade class in the state have fewer than two siblings, too. Choice D is
incorrect because 46,800 is the estimated total number of eighth-grade students in the state.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 54cb53cf
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and Percentages

Data Analysis

ID: 54cb53cf

The number of zebras in a population in was times the number of zebras in this population in . If the
number of zebras in this population in is of the number of zebras in this population in , what is the value
of , to the nearest whole number?

ID: 54cb53cf Answer

Correct Answer: 79

Rationale
The correct answer is 79. Let 𝑥 represent the number of zebras in the population in 2014 and let 𝑦 represent the number
of zebras in the population in 2018. It’s given that the number of zebras in this population in 2018 was 1.27 times the
number of zebras in this population in 2014. It follows that the equation 𝑦 = 1.27𝑥 represents this situation. Dividing both
𝑦 1
sides of this equation by 1.27 yields = 𝑥, or
1.27
𝑦 = 𝑥. Therefore, the number of zebras in this population in 2014 is
1.27
1
1.27
times the number of zebras in this population in 2018. If the number of zebras in this population in 2014 is 𝑝% of the
𝑝 1 𝑝 100
number of zebras in this population in 2018, then 𝑥 = 𝑦. It follows that = , or = 𝑝, which means 𝑝 is
100 1.27 100 1.27
approximately equal to 78.74. Therefore, the value of 𝑝, to the nearest whole number, is 79.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 3d73a58b
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and Percentages

Data Analysis

ID: 3d73a58b

A gift shop buys souvenirs at a wholesale price of dollars each and resells them each at a retail price that is
of the wholesale price. At the end of the season, any remaining souvenirs are marked at a discounted price that is
off the retail price. What is the discounted price of each remaining souvenir, in dollars?

ID: 3d73a58b Answer

Correct Answer: 203/50, 4.06

Rationale
The correct answer is 4.06. It's given that the retail price is 290% of the wholesale price of $ 7.00. Thus, the retail price is
290
$ 7.00
100
, which is equivalent to $ 7.002.9, or $ 20.30. It's also given that the discounted price is 80% off the retail price.
80
Thus, the discounted price is $ 20.301 - 100 , which is equivalent to $ 20.300.20, or $ 4.06.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 79137c1b
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and Two-variable data:

Data Analysis Models and
scatterplots

ID: 79137c1b

The scatterplot above shows the size x and the sale price y of 25 houses for sale
in Town H. Which of the following could be an equation for a line of best fit for
the data?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 79137c1b Answer

Correct Answer: B
Rationale
Choice B is correct. From the shape of the cluster of points, the line of best fit should pass roughly through the points
and . Therefore, these two points can be used to find an approximate equation for the line of best fit.

The slope of this line of best fit is therefore , or 100. The equation for the line of best fit, in slope-
intercept form, is for some value of b. Using the point , 1 can be substituted for x and 200 can be
substituted for y: , or . Substituting this value into the slope-intercept form of the equation
gives .

Choice A is incorrect. The line defined by passes through the points and , both of which
are well above the cluster of points, so it cannot be a line of best fit. Choice C is incorrect. The line defined by
passes through the points and , both of which lie at the bottom of the cluster of points,
so it cannot be a line of best fit. Choice D is incorrect and may result from correctly calculating the slope of a line of best
fit but incorrectly assuming the y-intercept is at .

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 54d93874
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and One-variable data:

Data Analysis Distributions and
measures of center
and spread

ID: 54d93874

Masses (kilograms)

Andrew 2.4 2.5 3.6 3.1 2.5 2.7

Maria x 3.1 2.7 2.9 3.3 2.8

Andrew and Maria each collected six rocks, and the masses of the rocks are
shown in the table above. The mean of the masses of the rocks Maria collected
is 0.1 kilogram greater than the mean of the masses of the rocks Andrew
collected. What is the value of x ?

ID: 54d93874 Answer

Rationale
The correct answer is 2.6. Since the mean of a set of numbers can be found by adding the numbers together and dividing
by how many numbers there are in the set, the mean mass, in kilograms, of the rocks Andrew collected is

, or 2.8. Since the mean mass of the rocks Maria collected is 0.1 kilogram
greater than the mean mass of rocks Andrew collected, the mean mass of the rocks Maria collected is
kilograms. The value of x can be found by writing an equation for finding the mean:

. Solving this equation gives . Note that 2.6 and 13/5 are examples of
ways to enter a correct answer.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 916ffe9b
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and Inference from

Data Analysis sample statistics and
margin of error

ID: 916ffe9b

Poll Results

Angel Cruz

Terry Smith
The table shows the results of a poll. A total of voters selected at random were asked which candidate they would
vote for in the upcoming election. According to the poll, if people vote in the election, by how many votes would
Angel Cruz be expected to win?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 916ffe9b Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is correct. It's given that 483 out of 803 voters responded that they would vote for Angel Cruz. Therefore, the
483
proportion of voters from the poll who responded they would vote for Angel Cruz is 803
. It’s also given that there are a
total of 6,424 voters in the election. Therefore, the total number of people who would be expected to vote for Angel Cruz
483
is 6,424 803 , or 3,864. Since 3,864 of the 6,424 total voters would be expected to vote for Angel Cruz, it follows that
6,424 - 3,864, or 2,560 voters would be expected not to vote for Angel Cruz. The difference in the number of votes for and
against Angel Cruz is 3,864 - 2,560, or 1,304 votes. Therefore, if 6,424 people vote in the election, Angel Cruz would be
expected to win by 1,304 votes.

Choice A is incorrect. This is the difference in the number of voters from the poll who responded that they would vote for
and against Angel Cruz.

Choice C is incorrect. This is the total number of people who would be expected to vote for Angel Cruz.

Choice D is incorrect. This is the difference between the total number of people who vote in the election and the number
of voters from the poll.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 9b5b23fc
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and Two-variable data:

Data Analysis Models and
scatterplots

ID: 9b5b23fc

For , the function is defined as follows: equals of

Which of the following could describe this function?

A. Decreasing exponential

B. Decreasing linear

C. Increasing exponential

D. Increasing linear

ID: 9b5b23fc Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
201
Choice D is correct. It's given that for 𝑥 > 0, 𝑓𝑥 is equal to 201% of 𝑥. This is equivalent to 𝑓𝑥 = 100
𝑥, or 𝑓𝑥 = 2.01𝑥, for
𝑥 > 0. This function indicates that as 𝑥 increases, 𝑓𝑥 also increases, which means 𝑓 is an increasing function.
Furthermore, 𝑓𝑥 increases at a constant rate of 2.01 for each increase of 𝑥 by 1. A function with a constant rate of
change is linear. Thus, the function 𝑓 can be described as an increasing linear function.

Choice A is incorrect and may result from conceptual errors. Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual errors.

𝑥
Choice C is incorrect. This could describe the function 𝑓𝑥 = 2.01 , where 𝑓𝑥 is equal to 201% of 𝑓𝑥 - 1, not 𝑥, for 𝑥 > 0.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID af142f8d
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and Two-variable data:

Data Analysis Models and
scatterplots

ID: af142f8d

Amount invested Balance increase

Account A $500 6% annual interest

Account B $1,000 $25 per year

Two investments were made as shown in the table above. The interest in
Account A is compounded once per year. Which of the following is true about
the investments?

A. Account A always earns more money per year than Account B.

B. Account A always earns less money per year than Account B.

C. Account A earns more money per year than Account B at first but eventually earns less money per year.

D. Account A earns less money per year than Account B at first but eventually earns more money per year.

ID: af142f8d Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is correct. Account A starts with $500 and earns interest at 6% per year, so in the first year Account A earns
(500)(0.06) = $30, which is greater than the $25 that Account B earns that year. Compounding interest can be modeled
by an increasing exponential function, so each year Account A will earn more money than it did the previous year.
Therefore, each year Account A earns at least $30 in interest. Since Account B always earns $25 each year, Account A
always earns more money per year than Account B.

Choices B and D are incorrect. Account A earns $30 in the first year, which is greater than the $25 Account B earns in the
first year. Therefore, neither the statement that Account A always earns less money per year than Account B nor the
statement that Account A earns less money than Account B at first can be true. Choice C is incorrect. Since
compounding interest can be modeled by an increasing exponential function, each year Account A will earn more money
than it did the previous year. Therefore, Account A always earns at least $30 per year, which is more than the $25 per year
that Account B earns.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 040f2a84
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and Percentages

Data Analysis

ID: 040f2a84

The regular price of a shirt at a store is . The sale price of the shirt is less than the regular price, and the sale
price is greater than the store's cost for the shirt. What was the store’s cost, in dollars, for the shirt? (Disregard the
sign when entering your answer. For example, if your answer is , enter )

ID: 040f2a84 Answer

Correct Answer: 1.8, 9/5

Rationale
The correct answer is 1.8. It’s given that the regular price of a shirt at a store is $ 11.70, and the sale price of the shirt is
80
80% less than the regular price. It follows that the sale price of the shirt is $ 11.701 - , or $ 11.701 - 0.8, which is
100
equivalent to $ 2.34. It’s also given that the sale price of the shirt is 30% greater than the store’s cost for the shirt. Let 𝑥
30
represent the store’s cost for the shirt. It follows that 2.34 = 1 + 100 𝑥, or 2.34 = 1.3𝑥. Dividing both sides of this equation
by 1.3 yields 𝑥 = 1.80. Therefore, the store’s cost, in dollars, for the shirt is 1.80. Note that 1.8 and 9/5 are examples of
ways to enter a correct answer.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 8213b1b3
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and Percentages

Data Analysis

ID: 8213b1b3

According to a set of standards, a certain type of substance can contain a maximum of phosphorus by mass. If
a sample of this substance has a mass of grams, what is the maximum mass, in grams, of phosphorus the sample
can contain to meet these standards?

ID: 8213b1b3 Answer

Correct Answer: .0014

Rationale
The correct answer is .0014 . It's given that a certain type of substance can contain a maximum of 0.001% phosphorus
by mass to meet a set of standards. If a sample of the substance has a mass of 140 grams, it follows that the maximum
0.001
mass, in grams, of phosphorus the sample can contain to meet the standards is 0.001% of 140, or 100
140, which is
equivalent to 0.00001140, or 0.0014. Note that .0014 and 0.001 are examples of ways to enter a correct answer.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 34f8cd89
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and Percentages

Data Analysis

ID: 34f8cd89

of the items in a box are green. Of those, are also rectangular. Of the green rectangular items, are also
metal. Which of the following is closest to the percentage of the items in the box that are not rectangular green metal
items?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 34f8cd89 Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is correct. It's given that 37% of the items in a box are green. Let 𝑥 represent the total number of items in the
37
box. It follows that 100
𝑥, or 0.37𝑥, items in the box are green. It's also given that of those, 37% are also rectangular.
37
Therefore, 100
0.37𝑥, or 0.1369𝑥, items in the box are green rectangular items. It's also given that of the green rectangular
42
items, 42% are also metal. Therefore, 0.1369𝑥, or 0.057498𝑥, items in the box are rectangular green metal items. The
100
number of the items in the box that are not rectangular green metal items is the total number of items in the box minus
the number of rectangular green metal items in the box. Therefore, the number of items in the box that are not
rectangular green metal items is 𝑥 - 0.057498𝑥, or 0.942502𝑥. The percentage of items in the box that are not rectangular
0.942502𝑥
green metal items is the percentage that 0.942502𝑥 is of 𝑥. If 𝑝% represents this percentage, the value of 𝑝 is 100 𝑥
, or 94.2502. Of the given choices, 94.25% is closest to the percentage of items in the box that are not rectangular green
metal items.

Choice A is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice D is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 20b69297
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and Ratios, rates,

Data Analysis proportional
relationships, and
units

ID: 20b69297

Anita created a batch of green paint by mixing 2 ounces of blue paint with 3
ounces of yellow paint. She must mix a second batch using the same ratio of
blue and yellow paint as the first batch. If she uses 5 ounces of blue paint for the
second batch, how much yellow paint should Anita use?

A. Exactly 5 ounces

B. 3 ounces more than the amount of yellow paint used in the first batch

C. 1.5 times the amount of yellow paint used in the first batch

D. 1.5 times the amount of blue paint used in the second batch

ID: 20b69297 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. It’s given that Anita used a ratio of 2 ounces of blue paint to 3 ounces of yellow paint for the first

batch. For any batch of paint that uses the same ratio, the amount of yellow paint used will be , or 1.5, times the
amount of blue paint used in the batch. Therefore, the amount of yellow paint Anita will use in the second batch will be
1.5 times the amount of blue paint used in the second batch.

Alternate approach: It’s given that Anita used a ratio of 2 ounces of blue paint to 3 ounces of yellow paint for the first
batch and that she will use 5 ounces of blue paint for the second batch. A proportion can be set up to solve for x, the

amount of yellow paint she will use for the second batch: . Multiplying both sides of this equation by 3 yields

, and multiplying both sides of this equation by x yields . Dividing both sides of this equation by 2 yields

. Since Anita will use 7.5 ounces of yellow paint for the second batch, this is times the amount of
blue paint (5 ounces) used in the second batch.

Choices A, B, and C are incorrect and may result from incorrectly interpreting the ratio of blue paint to yellow paint used.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 94237701
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and One-variable data:

Data Analysis Distributions and
measures of center
and spread

ID: 94237701
For a certain computer game, individuals receive an integer score that ranges from 2 through 10. The table below shows
the frequency distribution of the scores of the 9 players in group A and the 11 players in group B.

Score
Frequencies
Score
Group Group
A B

2 1 0

3 1 0

4 2 0

5 1 4

6 3 2

7 0 0

8 0 2

9 1 1

10 0 2

Total 9 11

The median of the scores for group B is how much greater than the median of
the scores for group A?

ID: 94237701 Answer

Rationale
The correct answer is 1. When there are an odd number of values in a data set, the median of the data set is the middle
number when the data values are ordered from least to greatest. The scores for group A, ordered from least to greatest,
are 2, 3, 4, 4, 5, 6, 6, 6, and 9. The median of the scores for group A is therefore 5. The scores for group B, ordered from
least to greatest, are 5, 5, 5, 5, 6, 6, 8, 8, 9, 10, and 10. The median of the scores for group B is therefore 6. The median
score for group B is more than the median score for group A.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 9d95e7ad
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and Two-variable data:

Data Analysis Models and
scatterplots

ID: 9d95e7ad

The scatterplot above shows the numbers of grams of both total protein and total fat for eight sandwiches on a
restaurant menu. The line of best fit for the data is also shown. According to the line of best fit, which of the following is
closest to the predicted increase in total fat, in grams, for every increase of 1 gram in total protein?

A. 2.5

B. 2.0

C. 1.5

D. 1.0

ID: 9d95e7ad Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is correct. The predicted increase in total fat, in grams, for every increase of 1 gram in total protein is
represented by the slope of the line of best fit. Any two points on the line can be used to calculate the slope of the line as
the change in total fat over the change in total protein. For instance, it can be estimated that the points and

are on the line of best fit, and the slope of the line that passes through them is , or 1.4. Of the
choices given, 1.5 is the closest to the slope of the line of best fit.

Choices A, B, and D are incorrect and may be the result of incorrectly finding ordered pairs that lie on the line of best fit or
of incorrectly calculating the slope.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID d6456c7a
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and Ratios, rates,

Data Analysis proportional
relationships, and
units

ID: d6456c7a

A certain park has an area of square yards. What is the area, in square miles, of this park?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: d6456c7a Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
2
Choice B is correct. Since 1 mile is equal to 1,760 yards, 1 square mile is equal to 1,760 , or 3,097,600, square yards. It’s
given that the park has an area of 11,863,808 square yards. Therefore, the park has an area of
1 square mile 11,863,808
11,863,808 square yards
3,097,600 square yards
, or 3,097,600
square miles. Thus, the area, in square miles, of the park is 3.83
.

Choice A is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice C is incorrect. This is the square root of the area of the park in square yards, not the area of the park in square
miles.

Choice D is incorrect and may result from converting 11,863,808 yards to miles, rather than converting 11,863,808 square
yards to square miles.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 25faa756
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and Percentages

Data Analysis

ID: 25faa756

The number is greater than the positive number . The number is less than . The number is how many
times ?

ID: 25faa756 Answer

Correct Answer: .88, 22/25

Rationale
The correct answer is .88 . It’s given that the number 𝑎 is 60% greater than the positive number 𝑏. Therefore,
60
𝑎=1+
100
𝑏, which is equivalent to 𝑎 = 1 + 0.60𝑏, or 𝑎 = 1.60𝑏. It’s also given that the number 𝑐 is 45% less than 𝑎.
45
Therefore, 𝑐 = 1 - 100 𝑎, which is equivalent to 𝑐 = 1 - 0.45𝑎, or 𝑐 = 0.55𝑎. Since 𝑎 = 1.60𝑏, substituting 1.60𝑏 for 𝑎 in the
equation 𝑐 = 0.55𝑎 yields 𝑐 = 0.551.60𝑏, or 𝑐 = 0.88𝑏. Thus, the number 𝑐 is 0.88 times the number 𝑏. Note that .88 and
22/25 are examples of ways to enter a correct answer.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID ad911622
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and Percentages

Data Analysis

ID: ad911622

The value of a collectible comic book increased by from the end of to the end of and then decreased
by from the end of to the end of . What was the net percentage increase in the value of the collectible
comic book from the end of to the end of ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: ad911622 Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is correct. It’s given that the value of the comic book increased by 167% from the end of 2011 to the end of
2012. Therefore, if the value of the comic book at the end of 2011 was 𝑥 dollars, then the value, in dollars, of the comic
167
book at the end of 2012 was 𝑥 + 100 𝑥, which can be rewritten as 1𝑥 + 1.67𝑥, or 2.67𝑥. It’s also given that the value of the
comic book decreased by 16% from the end of 2012 to the end of 2013. Therefore, the value, in dollars, of the comic
16
book at the end of 2013 was 2.67𝑥 - 2.67𝑥 , which can be rewritten as 2.67𝑥 - 2.67𝑥0.16, or 2.2428𝑥. Thus, if the value of
100
the comic book at the end of 2011 was 𝑥 dollars, and the value of the comic book at the end of 2013 was 2.2428𝑥 dollars,
then from the end of 2011 to the end of 2013, the value of the comic book increased by 2.2428𝑥 - 1𝑥, or 1.2428𝑥, dollars.
Therefore, the increase in the value of the comic book from the end of 2011 to the end of 2013 is equal to 1.2428 times
the value of the comic book at the end of 2011. It follows that from the end of 2011 to the end of 2013, the net
percentage increase in the value of the comic book was 1.2428100%, or 124.28%.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice C is incorrect. This is the difference between the net percentage increase in the value of the comic book from the
end of 2011 to the end of 2012 and the net percentage decrease in the value of the comic book from the end of 2012 to
the end of 2013, not the net percentage increase in the value of the comic book from the end of 2011 to the end of 2013.

Choice D is incorrect. This is the net percentage increase in the value of the comic book from the end of 2011 to the end
of 2013, if the value of the comic book increased by 167% from the end of 2011 to the end of 2012 and then increased,
not decreased, by 16% from the end of 2012 to the end of 2013.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID ecd09c38
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Problem-Solving and Probability and

Data Analysis conditional
probability

ID: ecd09c38
Employees working for a customer service line at an electric company recorded all the calls last Monday and noted
whether the caller asked for repairs and whether the caller asked about a bill. The results are summarized in the table
below.

Asked for Did not ask

Total
repairs for repairs

Asked
48 623 671
about a bill

Did not ask

130 90 220
about a bill

Total 178 713 891

If a caller last Monday who asked about his or her bill is selected at random,
which of the following is closest to the probability that the customer also asked
for repairs?

A. 0.05

B. 0.07

C. 0.20

D. 0.27

ID: ecd09c38 Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is correct. According to the table, a total of 671 customers asked about a bill. Of these, 48 also asked for
repairs. Therefore, if a customer who asked about a bill is selected at random, the probability that the customer also

asked for repairs is .

Choice A is incorrect. This is the probability that a customer selected at random from all customers who called on
Monday both asked for repairs and asked about a bill. Choice C is incorrect. This is the probability that a customer
selected at random from all customers who called on Monday asked for repairs, regardless of whether or not the
customer asked about a bill. Choice D is incorrect. This is the probability that a customer selected at random from those
who asked for repairs also asked about a bill.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 6d99b141
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Lines, angles, and

Trigonometry triangles

ID: 6d99b141

In the figure, . The measure of angle is , and the measure of angle is . What is the
value of ?

ID: 6d99b141 Answer

Correct Answer: 83

Rationale
The correct answer is 83. It's given that in the figure, 𝐴𝐶 = 𝐶𝐷. Thus, triangle 𝐴𝐶𝐷 is an isosceles triangle and the
measure of angle 𝐶𝐷𝐴 is equal to the measure of angle 𝐶𝐴𝐷. The sum of the measures of the interior angles of a triangle
is 180°. Thus, the sum of the measures of the interior angles of triangle 𝐴𝐶𝐷 is 180°. It's given that the measure of angle
𝐴𝐶𝐷 is 104°. It follows that the sum of the measures of angles 𝐶𝐷𝐴 and 𝐶𝐴𝐷 is 180 - 104°, or 76°. Since the measure of
angle 𝐶𝐷𝐴 is equal to the measure of angle 𝐶𝐴𝐷, the measure of angle 𝐶𝐷𝐴 is half of 76°, or 38°. The sum of the
measures of the interior angles of triangle 𝐵𝐷𝐸 is 180°. It's given that the measure of angle 𝐸𝐵𝐶 is 45°. Since the
measure of angle 𝐵𝐷𝐸, which is the same angle as angle 𝐶𝐷𝐴, is 38°, it follows that the measure of angle 𝐷𝐸𝐵 is
180 - 45 - 38°, or 97°. Since angle 𝐷𝐸𝐵 and angle 𝐴𝐸𝐵 form a straight line, the sum of the measures of these angles is
180°. It's given in the figure that the measure of angle 𝐴𝐸𝐵 is 𝑥°. It follows that 97 + 𝑥 = 180. Subtracting 97 from both
sides of this equation yields 𝑥 = 83.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID e10d8313
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Lines, angles, and

Trigonometry triangles

ID: e10d8313

In the figure shown, points , , , and lie on line segment , and line segment intersects line segment at
point . The measure of is , the measure of is , the measure of is , and the
measure of is . What is the measure, in degrees, of ?

ID: e10d8313 Answer

Correct Answer: 123

Rationale
The correct answer is 123. The triangle angle sum theorem states that the sum of the measures of the interior angles of
a triangle is 180 degrees. It's given that the measure of ∠𝑆𝑄𝑋 is 48° and the measure of ∠𝑆𝑋𝑄 is 86°. Since points 𝑆, 𝑄,
and 𝑋 form a triangle, it follows from the triangle angle sum theorem that the measure, in degrees, of ∠𝑄𝑆𝑋 is
180 - 48 - 86, or 46. It's also given that the measure of ∠𝑆𝑊𝑈 is 85°. Since ∠𝑆𝑊𝑈 and ∠𝑆𝑊𝑅 are supplementary angles,
the sum of their measures is 180 degrees. It follows that the measure, in degrees, of ∠𝑆𝑊𝑅 is 180 - 85, or 95. Since
points 𝑅, 𝑆, and 𝑊 form a triangle, and ∠𝑅𝑆𝑊 is the same angle as ∠𝑄𝑆𝑋, it follows from the triangle angle sum theorem
that the measure, in degrees, of ∠𝑊𝑅𝑆 is 180 - 46 - 95, or 39. It's given that the measure of ∠𝑉𝑇𝑈 is 162°. Since ∠𝑉𝑇𝑈
and ∠𝑆𝑇𝑈 are supplementary angles, the sum of their measures is 180 degrees. It follows that the measure, in degrees,
of ∠𝑆𝑇𝑈 is 180 - 162, or 18. Since points 𝑅, 𝑇, and 𝑈 form a triangle, and ∠𝑈𝑅𝑇 is the same angle as ∠𝑊𝑅𝑆, it follows
from the triangle angle sum theorem that the measure, in degrees, of ∠𝑇𝑈𝑅 is 180 - 39 - 18, or 123.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID f88f27e5
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Lines, angles, and

Trigonometry triangles

ID: f88f27e5
Intersecting lines r, s, and t are shown below.

What is the value of x ?

ID: f88f27e5 Answer

Rationale
The correct answer is 97. The intersecting lines form a triangle, and the angle with measure of is an exterior angle of
this triangle. The measure of an exterior angle of a triangle is equal to the sum of the measures of the two nonadjacent
interior angles of the triangle. One of these angles has measure of and the other, which is supplementary to the
angle with measure , has measure of . Therefore, the value of x is .

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID e5c57163
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Area and volume

Trigonometry

ID: e5c57163

Square A has side lengths that are times the side lengths of square B. The area of square A is times the area of
square B. What is the value of ?

ID: e5c57163 Answer

Correct Answer: 27556

Rationale
The correct answer is 27,556. The area of a square is 𝑠2 , where 𝑠 is the side length of the square. Let 𝑥 represent the
length of each side of square B. Substituting 𝑥 for 𝑠 in 𝑠2 yields 𝑥2 . It follows that the area of square B is 𝑥2 . It’s given that
square A has side lengths that are 166 times the side lengths of square B. Since 𝑥 represents the length of each side of
square B, the length of each side of square A can be represented by the expression 166𝑥. It follows that the area of
2
square A is 166𝑥 , or 27,556𝑥2 . It’s given that the area of square A is 𝑘 times the area of square B. Since the area of
square A is equal to 27,556𝑥2 , and the area of square B is equal to 𝑥2 , an equation representing the given statement is
27,556𝑥2 = 𝑘𝑥2 . Since 𝑥 represents the length of each side of square B, the value of 𝑥 must be positive. Therefore, the
value of 𝑥2 is also positive, so it does not equal 0. Dividing by 𝑥2 on both sides of the equation 27,556𝑥2 = 𝑘𝑥2 yields
27,556 = 𝑘. Therefore, the value of 𝑘 is 27,556.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 983412ea
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Area and volume

Trigonometry

ID: 983412ea

A right square prism has a height of units. The volume of the prism is cubic units. What is the length, in units, of
an edge of the base?

ID: 983412ea Answer

Correct Answer: 12

Rationale
The correct answer is 12. The volume, 𝑉, of a right square prism can be calculated using the formula 𝑉 = 𝑠2 ℎ, where 𝑠
represents the length of an edge of the base and ℎ represents the height of the prism. It’s given that the volume of the
prism is 2,016 cubic units and the height is 14 units. Substituting 2,016 for 𝑉 and 14 for ℎ in the formula 𝑉 = 𝑠2 ℎ yields
2,016 = 𝑠2 14. Dividing both sides of this equation by 14 yields 144 = 𝑠2 . Taking the square root of both sides of this
equation yields two solutions: -12 = 𝑠 and 12 = 𝑠. The length can't be negative, so 12 = 𝑠. Therefore, the length, in units,
of an edge of the base is 12.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 947a3cde
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Lines, angles, and

Trigonometry triangles

ID: 947a3cde

In the figure above, and intersect at point P, , and .

What is the measure, in degrees, of ? (Disregard the degree symbol
when gridding your answer.)

ID: 947a3cde Answer

Rationale
The correct answer is 30. It is given that the measure of is . Angle MPR and are collinear and
therefore are supplementary angles. This means that the sum of the two angle measures is , and so the measure

of is . The sum of the angles in a triangle is . Subtracting the measure of from yields
the sum of the other angles in the triangle MPR. Since , the sum of the measures of and
is . It is given that , so it follows that triangle MPR is isosceles. Therefore and
must be congruent. Since the sum of the measure of these two angles is , it follows that the measure of each angle

is .

An alternate approach would be to use the exterior angle theorem, noting that the measure of is equal to the
sum of the measures of and . Since both angles are equal, each of them has a measure of .

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 858fd1cf
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Circles

Trigonometry

ID: 858fd1cf

A circle in the xy-plane has its center at . Line is tangent to this circle at the point . Which of the
following points also lies on line ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 858fd1cf Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is correct. It’s given that the circle has its center at -1, 1 and that line 𝑡 is tangent to this circle at the point 5, - 4.
Therefore, the points -1, 1 and 5, - 4 are the endpoints of the radius of the circle at the point of tangency. The slope of a
𝑑-𝑏
line or line segment that contains the points 𝑎, 𝑏 and 𝑐, 𝑑 can be calculated as 𝑐-𝑎
. Substituting -1, 1 for 𝑎, 𝑏 and 5, - 4 for
𝑑-𝑏 -4 - 1 5 5
𝑐, 𝑑 in the expression 𝑐-𝑎
yields 5 - -1
, or -6. Thus, the slope of this radius is -6. A line that’s tangent to a circle is
perpendicular to the radius of the circle at the point of tangency. It follows that line 𝑡 is perpendicular to the radius at the
5 6
point 5, - 4, so the slope of line 𝑡 is the negative reciprocal of the slope of this radius. The negative reciprocal of - is .
6 5
6
Therefore, the slope of line 𝑡 is 5 . Since the slope of line 𝑡 is the same between any two points on line 𝑡, a point lies on line
6
𝑡 if the slope of the line segment connecting the point and 5, - 4 is . Substituting choice C, 10, 2, for 𝑎, 𝑏 and 5, - 4 for 𝑐, 𝑑
5
𝑑-𝑏 -4 - 2 6
in the expression 𝑐-𝑎
yields 5 - 10
, or 5 . Therefore, the point 10, 2 lies on line 𝑡.

6
6 -4 - 26 6
Choice A is incorrect. The slope of the line segment connecting 0, and 5, - 4 is 5, or - , not .
5 5-0 25 5

-4 - 7 6
Choice B is incorrect. The slope of the line segment connecting 4, 7 and 5, - 4 is 5-4
, or -11, not 5 .

-4 - 1 5 6
Choice D is incorrect. The slope of the line segment connecting 11, 1 and 5, - 4 is , or , not .
5 - 11 6 5

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 9966235e
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Area and volume

Trigonometry

ID: 9966235e

A cube has an edge length of inches. A solid sphere with a radius of inches is inside the cube, such that the sphere
touches the center of each face of the cube. To the nearest cubic inch, what is the volume of the space in the cube not
taken up by the sphere?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 9966235e Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is correct. The volume of a cube can be found by using the formula 𝑉 = 𝑠3 , where 𝑉 is the volume and 𝑠 is the
3
edge length of the cube. Therefore, the volume of the given cube is 𝑉 = 68 , or 314,432 cubic inches. The volume of a
4
sphere can be found by using the formula 𝑉 = 𝜋𝑟3 , where 𝑉 is the volume and 𝑟 is the radius of the sphere. Therefore,
3
4 3
the volume of the given sphere is 𝑉 = 3 𝜋34 , or approximately 164,636 cubic inches. The volume of the space in the cube
not taken up by the sphere is the difference between the volume of the cube and volume of the sphere. Subtracting the
approximate volume of the sphere from the volume of the cube gives 314,432 - 164,636 = 149,796 cubic inches.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice D is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID a0369739
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Lines, angles, and

Trigonometry triangles

ID: a0369739

In triangle , the measure of angle is and is an altitude of the triangle. The length of is and the
length of is greater than the length of . What is the value of ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: a0369739 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. It's given that in triangle 𝐴𝐵𝐶, the measure of angle 𝐵 is 90° and 𝐵𝐷 is an altitude of the triangle.
Therefore, the measure of angle 𝐵𝐷𝐶 is 90°. It follows that angle 𝐵 is congruent to angle 𝐷 and angle 𝐶 is congruent to
angle 𝐶. By the angle-angle similarity postulate, triangle 𝐴𝐵𝐶 is similar to triangle 𝐵𝐷𝐶. Since triangles 𝐴𝐵𝐶 and 𝐵𝐷𝐶 are
𝐴𝐶 𝐵𝐶 ¯ ¯
similar, it follows that 𝐴𝐵
=
𝐵𝐷
. It's also given that the length of 𝐴𝐵 is 15 and the length of 𝐴𝐶 is 23 greater than the length
¯ ¯ 𝐴𝐶 𝐵𝐶
of 𝐴𝐵. Therefore, the length of 𝐴𝐶 is 15 + 23, or 38. Substituting 15 for 𝐴𝐵 and 38 for 𝐴𝐶 in the equation 𝐴𝐵
=
𝐵𝐷
yields
38 𝐵𝐶 𝐵𝐶 38
15
=
𝐵𝐷
. Therefore, the value of 𝐵𝐷
is 15
.

𝐵𝐷
Choice A is incorrect. This is the value of . Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.
𝐵𝐶

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID a07ed090
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Area and volume

Trigonometry

ID: a07ed090

The figure shown is a right circular cylinder with a radius of and height of . A second right circular cylinder (not
shown) has a volume that is times as large as the volume of the cylinder shown. Which of the following could
represent the radius , in terms of , and the height , in terms of , of the second cylinder?

A. and

B. and

C. and

D. and

ID: a07ed090 Answer

Correct Answer: C
Rationale
Choice C is correct. The volume of a right circular cylinder is equal to 𝜋𝑎2 𝑏, where 𝑎 is the radius of a base of the cylinder
and 𝑏 is the height of the cylinder. It’s given that the cylinder shown has a radius of 𝑟 and a height of ℎ. It follows that the
volume of the cylinder shown is equal to 𝜋𝑟2 ℎ. It’s given that the second right circular cylinder has a radius of 𝑅 and a
2
height of 𝐻. It follows that the volume of the second cylinder is equal to 𝜋𝑅 𝐻. Choice C gives 𝑅 = 7𝑟 and 𝐻 = 8ℎ.
2
Substituting 7𝑟 for 𝑅 and 8ℎ for 𝐻 in the expression that represents the volume of the second cylinder yields 𝜋7𝑟 8ℎ, or
𝜋49𝑟2 8ℎ, which is equivalent to 𝜋392𝑟2 ℎ, or 392𝜋𝑟2 ℎ. This expression is equal to 392 times the volume of the cylinder
shown, 𝜋𝑟2 ℎ. Therefore, 𝑅 = 7𝑟 and 𝐻 = 8ℎ could represent the radius 𝑅, in terms of 𝑟, and the height 𝐻, in terms of ℎ, of
the second cylinder.

Choice A is incorrect. Substituting 8𝑟 for 𝑅 and 7ℎ for 𝐻 in the expression that represents the volume of the second
2
cylinder yields 𝜋8𝑟 7ℎ, or 𝜋64𝑟2 7ℎ, which is equivalent to 𝜋448𝑟2 ℎ, or 448𝜋𝑟2 ℎ. This expression is equal to 448, not 392,
times the volume of the cylinder shown.

Choice B is incorrect. Substituting 8𝑟 for 𝑅 and 49ℎ for 𝐻 in the expression that represents the volume of the second
cylinder yields 𝜋8𝑟2 49ℎ, or 𝜋64𝑟2 49ℎ, which is equivalent to 𝜋3,136𝑟2 ℎ, or 3,136𝜋𝑟2 ℎ. This expression is equal to 3,136,
not 392, times the volume of the cylinder shown.

Choice D is incorrect. Substituting 49𝑟 for 𝑅 and 8ℎ for 𝐻 in the expression that represents the volume of the second
2
cylinder yields 𝜋49𝑟 8ℎ, or 𝜋2,401𝑟2 8ℎ, which is equivalent to 𝜋19,208𝑟2 ℎ, or 19,208𝜋𝑟2 ℎ. This expression is equal to
19,208, not 392, times the volume of the cylinder shown.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 2d2cb85e
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Lines, angles, and

Trigonometry triangles

ID: 2d2cb85e

In the figure, , the measure of angle is , and the measure of angle is . What is the value of
?

ID: 2d2cb85e Answer

Correct Answer: 156

Rationale
The correct answer is 156. In the figure shown, the sum of the measures of angle 𝑈𝑉𝑆 and angle 𝑅𝑉𝑆 is 180°. It’s given
that the measure of angle 𝑅𝑉𝑆 is 41°. Therefore, the measure of angle 𝑈𝑉𝑆 is 180 - 41°, or 139°. The sum of the measures
of the interior angles of a triangle is 180°. In triangle 𝑈𝑉𝑆, the measure of angle 𝑈𝑉𝑆 is 139° and it's given that the
measure of angle 𝑉𝑆𝑇 is 29°. Thus, the measure of angle 𝑉𝑈𝑆 is 180 - 139 - 29°, or 12°. It’s given that 𝑅𝑇 = 𝑇𝑈. Therefore,
triangle 𝑇𝑈𝑅 is an isosceles triangle and the measure of 𝑉𝑈𝑆 is equal to the measure of angle 𝑇𝑅𝑈. In triangle 𝑇𝑈𝑅, the
measure of angle 𝑉𝑈𝑆 is 12° and the measure of angle 𝑇𝑅𝑈 is 12°. Thus, the measure of angle 𝑈𝑇𝑅 is 180 - 12 - 12°, or
156°. The figure shows that the measure of angle 𝑈𝑇𝑅 is 𝑥°, so the value of 𝑥 is 156.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 345cc36a
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Lines, angles, and

Trigonometry triangles

ID: 345cc36a

In the figure shown, and intersect at point . , , , and . What is the

length of ?

ID: 345cc36a Answer

Correct Answer: 54

Rationale
The correct answer is 54. The figure shown includes two triangles, triangle 𝑊𝑄𝑋 and triangle 𝑌𝑄𝑍, such that angle 𝑊𝑄𝑋
and angle 𝑌𝑄𝑍 are vertical angles. It follows that angle 𝑊𝑄𝑋 is congruent to angle 𝑌𝑄𝑍. It’s also given in the figure that
the measures of angle 𝑊 and angle 𝑌 are 𝑎°. Therefore angle 𝑊 is congruent to angle 𝑌. Since triangle 𝑊𝑄𝑋 and triangle
𝑌𝑄𝑍 have two pairs of congruent angles, triangle 𝑊𝑄𝑋 is similar to triangle 𝑌𝑄𝑍 by the angle-angle similarity postulate,
¯ ¯ ¯ ¯
where 𝑌𝑍 corresponds to 𝑊𝑋, and 𝑌𝑄 corresponds to 𝑊𝑄. Since the lengths of corresponding sides in similar triangles
𝑌𝑍 𝑌𝑄
are proportional, it follows that 𝑊𝑋
=
𝑊𝑄
. It’s given that 𝑌𝑄 = 63, 𝑊𝑄 = 70, and 𝑊𝑋 = 60. Substituting 63 for 𝑌𝑄, 70 for
𝑌𝑍 𝑌𝑄 𝑌𝑍 63 63
𝑊𝑄, and 60 for 𝑊𝑋 in the equation = yields 60 = 70 . Multiplying each side of this equation by 60 yields 𝑌𝑍 = 60,
𝑊𝑋 𝑊𝑄 70
¯
or 𝑌𝑍 = 54. Therefore, the length of 𝑌𝑍 is 54.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID c8345903
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Circles

Trigonometry

ID: c8345903

The circle above has center O, the length of arc is , and

. What is the length of arc ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: c8345903 Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is correct. The ratio of the lengths of two arcs of a circle is equal to the ratio of the measures of the central
angles that subtend the arcs. It’s given that arc is subtended by a central angle with measure 100°. Since the sum

of the measures of the angles about a point is 360°, it follows that arc is subtended by a central angle with

measure . If s is the length of arc , then s must satisfy the ratio . Reducing the

fraction to its simplest form gives . Therefore, . Multiplying both sides of by

yields .

Choice A is incorrect. This is the length of an arc consisting of exactly half of the circle, but arc is greater than half
of the circle. Choice C is incorrect. This is the total circumference of the circle. Choice D is incorrect. This is half the
length of arc , not its full length.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 901c3215
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Lines, angles, and

Trigonometry triangles

ID: 901c3215

In triangles and , angles and each have measure and angles and each have measure .
Which additional piece of information is sufficient to determine whether triangle is congruent to triangle ?

A. The measure of angle

B. The length of side

C. The lengths of sides and

D. No additional information is necessary.

ID: 901c3215 Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is correct. Since angles 𝐵 and 𝐸 each have the same measure and angles 𝐶 and 𝐹 each have the same measure,
triangles 𝐴𝐵𝐶 and 𝐷𝐸𝐹 are similar, where side 𝐵𝐶 corresponds to side 𝐸𝐹. To determine whether two similar triangles are
congruent, it is sufficient to determine whether one pair of corresponding sides are congruent. Therefore, to determine
whether triangles 𝐴𝐵𝐶 and 𝐷𝐸𝐹 are congruent, it is sufficient to determine whether sides 𝐵𝐶 and 𝐸𝐹 have equal length.
Thus, the lengths of 𝐵𝐶 and 𝐸𝐹 are sufficient to determine whether triangle 𝐴𝐵𝐶 is congruent to triangle 𝐷𝐸𝐹.

Choice A is incorrect and may result from conceptual errors. Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual errors.

Choice D is incorrect. The given information is sufficient to determine that triangles 𝐴𝐵𝐶 and 𝐷𝐸𝐹 are similar, but not
whether they are congruent.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID bd87bc09
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Right triangles and

Trigonometry trigonometry

ID: bd87bc09

Triangle above is a right triangle, and .

What is the length of side ?

ID: bd87bc09 Answer

Rationale
The correct answer is 24. The sine of an acute angle in a right triangle is equal to the ratio of the length of the side
opposite the angle to the length of the hypotenuse. In the triangle shown, the sine of angle B, or , is equal to the

ratio of the length of side to the length of side . It’s given that the length of side is 26 and that .

Therefore, . Multiplying both sides of this equation by 26 yields .

By the Pythagorean Theorem, the relationship between the lengths of the sides of triangle ABC is as follows:
, or . Subtracting 100 from both sides of yields .

Taking the square root of both sides of yields .

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID f7dbde16
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Lines, angles, and

Trigonometry triangles

ID: f7dbde16

In triangles and , angles and each have measure , , and . Which additional
piece of information is sufficient to prove that triangle is similar to triangle ?

A. and

B. and

C. The measures of angles and are and , respectively.

D. The measures of angles and are and , respectively.

ID: f7dbde16 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. Two triangles are similar if they have three pairs of congruent corresponding angles. It’s given that
angles 𝐿 and 𝑅 each measure 60°, and so these corresponding angles are congruent. If angle 𝑀 is 70°, then angle 𝑁 must
be 50° so that the sum of the angles in triangle 𝐿𝑀𝑁 is 180°. If angle 𝑇 is 50°, then angle 𝑆 must be 70° so that the sum of
the angles in triangle 𝑅𝑆𝑇 is 180°. Therefore, if the measures of angles 𝑀 and 𝑇 are 70° and 50°, respectively, then
corresponding angles 𝑀 and 𝑆 are both 70°, and corresponding angles 𝑁 and 𝑇 are both 50°. It follows that triangles 𝐿𝑀𝑁
and 𝑅𝑆𝑇 have three pairs of congruent corresponding angles, and so the triangles are similar. Therefore, the additional
piece of information that is sufficient to prove that triangle 𝐿𝑀𝑁 is similar to triangle 𝑅𝑆𝑇 is that the measures of angles
𝑀 and 𝑇 are 70° and 50°, respectively.

Choice A is incorrect. If the measures of two sides in one triangle are proportional to the corresponding sides in another
triangle and the included angles are congruent, then the triangles are similar. However, the two sides given are not
proportional and the angle given is not included by the given sides.

Choice B is incorrect. If the measures of two sides in one triangle are proportional to the corresponding sides in another
triangle and the included angles are congruent, then the triangles are similar. However, the angle given is not included
between the proportional sides.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 76c73dbf
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Circles

Trigonometry

ID: 76c73dbf

The graph of in the xy-plane is a circle. What is the length of the circle’s radius?

ID: 76c73dbf Answer

Correct Answer: 10

Rationale
199
The correct answer is 10. It's given that the graph of 𝑥2 + 𝑥 + 𝑦2 + 𝑦 = 2
in the xy-plane is a circle. The equation of a
2 2
circle in the xy-plane can be written in the form 𝑥 - ℎ + 𝑦 - 𝑘 = 𝑟2 , where the coordinates of the center of the circle are
ℎ, 𝑘 and the length of the radius of the circle is 𝑟. The term 𝑥 - ℎ2 in this equation can be obtained by adding the square of
half the coefficient of 𝑥 to both sides of the given equation to complete the square. The coefficient of 𝑥 is 1. Half the
1 1 1 199
coefficient of 𝑥 is 2 . The square of half the coefficient of 𝑥 is 4 . Adding 4
to each side of 𝑥2 + 𝑥 + 𝑦2 + 𝑦 = 2
yields
1 199 1 12 199 1
𝑥2 + 𝑥 + + 𝑦 2 + 𝑦 = + , or 𝑥 + + 𝑦2 + 𝑦 = + . Similarly, the term 𝑦 - 𝑘2 can be obtained by adding the square
4 2 4 2 2 4
12 1 199 1 1
of half the coefficient of 𝑦 to both sides of this equation, which yields 𝑥 + + 𝑦2 + 𝑦 + = + + , or
2 4 2 4 4
12 12 199 1 1 12 12 12 12 2
𝑥+ +𝑦+ = + + . This equation is equivalent to 𝑥 + + 𝑦 + = 100, or 𝑥 + + 𝑦 + = 10 . Therefore,
2 2 2 4 4 2 2 2 2
the length of the circle's radius is 10.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 52f7b898
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Right triangles and

Trigonometry trigonometry

ID: 52f7b898

Right triangle is shown. What is the value of ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 52f7b898 Answer

Correct Answer: C
Rationale
Choice C is correct. In the triangle shown, the measure of angle 𝐵 is 30° and angle 𝐶 is a right angle, which means that it
has a measure of 90°. Since the sum of the angles in a triangle is equal to 180°, the measure of angle 𝐴 is equal to
180° - 30 + 90°, or 60°. In a right triangle whose acute angles have measures 30° and 60°, the lengths of the legs can be
represented by the expressions 𝑥, 𝑥√3 , and 2𝑥, where 𝑥 is the length of the leg opposite the angle with measure 30°, 𝑥√3
is the length of the leg opposite the angle with measure 60°, and 2𝑥 is the length of the hypotenuse. In the triangle shown,
the hypotenuse has a length of 54. It follows that 2𝑥 = 54, or 𝑥 = 27. Therefore, the length of the leg opposite angle 𝐵 is
27 and the length of the leg opposite angle 𝐴 is 27√3 . The tangent of an acute angle in a right triangle is defined as the
ratio of the length of the leg opposite the angle to the length of the leg adjacent to the angle. The length of the leg
27√3
opposite angle 𝐴 is 27√3 and the length of the leg adjacent to angle 𝐴 is 27. Therefore, the value of tan𝐴 is 27
, or √3 .

Choice A is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

1
Choice B is incorrect. This is the value of , not the value of tan𝐴.
tan𝐴

Choice D is incorrect. This is the length of the leg opposite angle 𝐴, not the value of tan𝐴.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID e50afdd3
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Circles

Trigonometry

ID: e50afdd3

The graph of the given equation is a circle in the xy-plane. The point lies on the circle. Which of the following is a
possible value for ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: e50afdd3 Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
2 2
Choice B is correct. An equation of the form 𝑥 - ℎ + 𝑦 - 𝑘 = 𝑟2 , where ℎ, 𝑘, and 𝑟 are constants, represents a circle in the
xy-plane with center ℎ, 𝑘 and radius 𝑟. Therefore, the circle represented by the given equation has center -4, 19 and radius
11. Since the center of the circle has an x-coordinate of -4 and the radius of the circle is 11, the least possible x-
coordinate for any point on the circle is -4 - 11, or -15. Similarly, the greatest possible x-coordinate for any point on the
circle is -4 + 11, or 7. Therefore, if the point 𝑎, 𝑏 lies on the circle, it must be true that -15 ≤ 𝑎 ≤ 7. Of the given choices,
only -14 satisfies this inequality.

Choice A is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice D is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 2266984b
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Circles

Trigonometry

ID: 2266984b

The equation above defines a circle in the xy-plane. What are the
coordinates of the center of the circle?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 2266984b Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale

Choice B is correct. The standard equation of a circle in the xy-plane is of the form , where
are the coordinates of the center of the circle and r is the radius. The given equation can be rewritten in standard form by
completing the squares. So the sum of the first two terms, , needs a 100 to complete the square, and the sum

of the second two terms, , needs a 64 to complete the square. Adding 100 and 64 to both sides of the given

equation yields , which is equivalent to

. Therefore, the coordinates of the center of the circle are .

Choices A, C, and D are incorrect and may result from computational errors made when attempting to complete the
squares or when identifying the coordinates of the center.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 1429dcdf
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Right triangles and

Trigonometry trigonometry

ID: 1429dcdf

In the triangle shown, what is the value of ?

ID: 1429dcdf Answer

Correct Answer: .6956, .6957, 16/23

Rationale
16
The correct answer is 23
. In a right triangle, the sine of an acute angle is defined as the ratio of the length of the side
opposite the angle to the length of the hypotenuse. In the triangle shown, the length of the side opposite the angle with
16
measure 𝑥° is 16 units and the length of the hypotenuse is 23 units. Therefore, the value of sin𝑥° is 23
. Note that 16/23,
.6956, .6957, 0.695, and 0.696 are examples of ways to enter a correct answer.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 69b0d79d
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Circles

Trigonometry

ID: 69b0d79d

Point O is the center of the circle above, and the measure of is . If

the length of is 18, what is the length of arc ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 69b0d79d Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is correct. Because segments OA and OB are radii of the circle centered at point O, these segments have equal
lengths. Therefore, triangle AOB is an isosceles triangle, where angles OAB and OBA are congruent base angles of the
triangle. It’s given that angle OAB measures . Therefore, angle OBA also measures . Let represent the
measure of angle AOB. Since the sum of the measures of the three angles of any triangle is , it follows that
, or . Subtracting from both sides of this equation yields , or

radians. Therefore, the measure of angle AOB, and thus the measure of arc , is radians. Since is a

radius of the given circle and its length is 18, the length of the radius of the circle is 18. Therefore, the length of arc

can be calculated as , or .

Choices A, C, and D are incorrect and may result from conceptual or computational errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID ebbf23ae
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Circles

Trigonometry

ID: ebbf23ae

A circle in the xy-plane has a diameter with endpoints and . An equation of this circle is
, where is a positive constant. What is the value of ?

ID: ebbf23ae Answer

Correct Answer: 5

Rationale
2 2
The correct answer is 5. The standard form of an equation of a circle in the xy-plane is 𝑥 - ℎ + 𝑦 - 𝑘 = 𝑟2 , where ℎ, 𝑘, and
𝑟 are constants, the coordinates of the center of the circle are ℎ, 𝑘, and the length of the radius of the circle is 𝑟. It′s given
2 2
that an equation of the circle is 𝑥 - 2 + 𝑦 - 9 = 𝑟2 . Therefore, the center of this circle is 2, 9. It’s given that the endpoints
of a diameter of the circle are 2, 4 and 2, 14. The length of the radius is the distance from the center of the circle to an
endpoint of a diameter of the circle, which can be found using the distance formula, 𝑥1 - 𝑥2 2 + 𝑦1 - 𝑦2 2 . Substituting the
√
center of the circle 2, 9 and one endpoint of the diameter 2, 4 in this formula gives a distance of √2 - 22 + 9 - 42 , or
√02 + 52 , which is equivalent to 5. Since the distance from the center of the circle to an endpoint of a diameter is 5, the
value of 𝑟 is 5.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 4c95c7d4
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Right triangles and

Trigonometry trigonometry

ID: 4c95c7d4

A graphic designer is creating a logo for a company. The logo is shown in the
figure above. The logo is in the shape of a trapezoid and consists of
three congruent equilateral triangles. If the perimeter of the logo is
20 centimeters, what is the combined area of the shaded regions, in square
centimeters, of the logo?

A.

B.

C.

D. 16

ID: 4c95c7d4 Answer

Correct Answer: C
Rationale
Choice C is correct. It’s given that the logo is in the shape of a trapezoid that consists of three congruent equilateral
triangles, and that the perimeter of the trapezoid is 20 centimeters (cm). Since the perimeter of the trapezoid is the sum

of the lengths of 5 of the sides of the triangles, the length of each side of an equilateral triangle is . Dividing
up one equilateral triangle into two right triangles yields a pair of congruent 30°-60°-90° triangles. The shorter leg of each
right triangle is half the length of the side of an equilateral triangle, or 2 cm. Using the Pythagorean Theorem,
, the height of the equilateral triangle can be found. Substituting and and solving for b yields

cm. The area of one equilateral triangle is , where and . Therefore, the

area of one equilateral triangle is . The shaded area consists of two such triangles, so its area

is .

Alternate approach: The area of a trapezoid can be found by evaluating the expression , where is the
length of one base, is the length of the other base, and h is the height of the trapezoid. Substituting , ,

and yields the expression , or , which gives an area of for the

trapezoid. Since two-thirds of the trapezoid is shaded, the area of the shaded region is .

Choice A is incorrect. This is the height of the trapezoid. Choice B is incorrect. This is the area of one of the equilateral
triangles, not two. Choice D is incorrect and may result from using a height of 4 for each triangle rather than the height of
.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID b8a225ff
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Circles

Trigonometry

ID: b8a225ff

Circle A in the xy-plane has the equation . Circle B has the same center as circle A. The radius
of circle B is two times the radius of circle A. The equation defining circle B in the xy-plane is ,
where is a constant. What is the value of ?

ID: b8a225ff Answer

Correct Answer: 16

Rationale
The correct answer is 16. An equation of a circle in the xy-plane can be written as 𝑥 - 𝑡2 + 𝑦 - 𝑢2 = 𝑟2 , where the center of
the circle is 𝑡, 𝑢 , the radius of the circle is 𝑟, and where 𝑡, 𝑢, and 𝑟 are constants. It’s given that the equation of circle A is
2 2 2 2
𝑥 + 5 + 𝑦 - 5 = 4, which is equivalent to 𝑥 + 5 + 𝑦 - 5 = 22 . Therefore, the center of circle A is -5, 5 and the radius of
circle A is 2. It’s given that circle B has the same center as circle A and that the radius of circle B is two times the radius
of circle A. Therefore, the center of circle B is -5, 5 and the radius of circle B is 22, or 4. Substituting -5 for 𝑡, 5 for 𝑢, and 4
2 2 2 2 2
for 𝑟 into the equation 𝑥 - 𝑡2 + 𝑦 - 𝑢2 = 𝑟2 yields 𝑥 + 5 + 𝑦 - 5 = 4 , which is equivalent to 𝑥 + 5 + 𝑦 - 5 = 16. It follows
2 2
that the equation of circle B in the xy-plane is 𝑥 + 5 + 𝑦 - 5 = 16. Therefore, the value of 𝑘 is 16.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID b0a72bdc
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Circles

Trigonometry

ID: b0a72bdc

What is the diameter of the circle in the xy-plane with equation ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: b0a72bdc Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
2 2
Choice B is correct. The standard form of an equation of a circle in the xy-plane is 𝑥 - ℎ + 𝑦 - 𝑘 = 𝑟2 , where the
coordinates of the center of the circle are ℎ, 𝑘 and the length of the radius of the circle is 𝑟. For the circle in the xy-plane
2 2
with equation 𝑥 - 5 + 𝑦 - 3 = 16, it follows that 𝑟2 = 16. Taking the square root of both sides of this equation yields
𝑟 = 4 or 𝑟 = - 4. Because 𝑟 represents the length of the radius of the circle and this length must be positive, 𝑟 = 4.
Therefore, the radius of the circle is 4. The diameter of a circle is twice the length of the radius of the circle. Thus, 24
yields 8. Therefore, the diameter of the circle is 8.

Choice A is incorrect. This is the radius of the circle. Choice C is incorrect. This is the square of the radius of the circle.

Choice D is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID ba8ca563
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Area and volume

Trigonometry

ID: ba8ca563

A cube has a volume of cubic units. What is the surface area, in square units, of the cube?

ID: ba8ca563 Answer

Correct Answer: 36504

Rationale
The correct answer is 36,504. The volume of a cube can be found using the formula 𝑉 = 𝑠3 , where 𝑠 represents the edge
length of a cube. It’s given that this cube has a volume of 474,552 cubic units. Substituting 474,552 for 𝑉 in 𝑉 = 𝑠3 yields
474,552 = 𝑠3 . Taking the cube root of both sides of this equation yields 78 = 𝑠. Thus, the edge length of the cube is 78
units. Since each face of a cube is a square, it follows that each face has an edge length of 78 units. The area of a square
can be found using the formula 𝐴 = 𝑠2 . Substituting 78 for 𝑠 in this formula yields 𝐴 = 782 , or 𝐴 = 6,084. Therefore, the
area of one face of this cube is 6,084 square units. Since a cube has 6 faces, the surface area, in square units, of this
cube is 66,084, or 36,504.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID b1e1c2f5
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Lines, angles, and

Trigonometry triangles

ID: b1e1c2f5

In right triangle , angle is the right angle and . Point on side is connected by a line segment
with point on side such that line segment is parallel to side and . What is the length of line
segment ?

ID: b1e1c2f5 Answer

Correct Answer: 54

Rationale
The correct answer is 54. It’s given that in triangle 𝐴𝐵𝐶, point 𝐷 on side 𝐴𝐵 is connected by a line segment with point 𝐸 on
side 𝐴𝐶 such that line segment 𝐷𝐸 is parallel to side 𝐵𝐶. It follows that parallel segments 𝐷𝐸 and 𝐵𝐶 are intersected by
sides 𝐴𝐵 and 𝐴𝐶. If two parallel segments are intersected by a third segment, corresponding angles are congruent. Thus,
corresponding angles 𝐶 and 𝐴𝐸𝐷 are congruent and corresponding angles 𝐵 and 𝐴𝐷𝐸 are congruent. Since triangle 𝐴𝐷𝐸
has two angles that are each congruent to an angle in triangle 𝐴𝐵𝐶, triangle 𝐴𝐷𝐸 is similar to triangle 𝐴𝐵𝐶 by the angle-
angle similarity postulate, where side 𝐷𝐸 corresponds to side 𝐵𝐶, and side 𝐴𝐸 corresponds to side 𝐴𝐶. Since the lengths
𝐷𝐸 𝐴𝐸
of corresponding sides in similar triangles are proportional, it follows that 𝐵𝐶
=
𝐴𝐶
. Since point 𝐸 lies on side 𝐴𝐶,
𝐴𝐸 + 𝐶𝐸 = 𝐴𝐶. It's given that 𝐶𝐸 = 2𝐴𝐸. Substituting 2𝐴𝐸 for 𝐶𝐸 in the equation 𝐴𝐸 + 𝐶𝐸 = 𝐴𝐶 yields 𝐴𝐸 + 2𝐴𝐸 = 𝐴𝐶, or
𝐷𝐸 𝐴𝐸 𝐷𝐸 𝐴𝐸
3𝐴𝐸 = 𝐴𝐶. It’s given that 𝐵𝐶 = 162. Substituting 162 for 𝐵𝐶 and 3𝐴𝐸 for 𝐴𝐶 in the equation 𝐵𝐶
= 𝐴𝐶
yields 162
= 3𝐴𝐸
, or
𝐷𝐸 1
= . Multiplying both sides of this equation by 162 yields 𝐷𝐸 = 54. Thus, the length of line segment 𝐷𝐸 is 54.
162 3

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID a4bd60a3
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Right triangles and

Trigonometry trigonometry

ID: a4bd60a3

The perimeter of an equilateral triangle is centimeters. The height of this triangle is centimeters, where is a
constant. What is the value of ?

ID: a4bd60a3 Answer

Correct Answer: 104

Rationale
The correct answer is 104. An equilateral triangle is a triangle in which all three sides have the same length and all three
angles have a measure of 60°. The height of the triangle, 𝑘√3 , is the length of the altitude from one vertex. The altitude
divides the equilateral triangle into two congruent 30-60-90 right triangles, where the altitude is the side across from the
60° angle in each 30-60-90 right triangle. Since the altitude has a length of 𝑘√3 , it follows from the properties of 30-60-
90 right triangles that the side across from each 30° angle has a length of 𝑘 and each hypotenuse has a length of 2𝑘. In
this case, the hypotenuse of each 30-60-90 right triangle is a side of the equilateral triangle; therefore, each side length of
the equilateral triangle is 2𝑘. The perimeter of a triangle is the sum of the lengths of each side. It's given that the
perimeter of the equilateral triangle is 624; therefore, 2𝑘 + 2𝑘 + 2𝑘 = 624, or 6𝑘 = 624. Dividing both sides of this
equation by 6 yields 𝑘 = 104.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 899c6042
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Area and volume

Trigonometry

ID: 899c6042

A right circular cone has a height of and a base with a diameter of . The volume of this cone
is . What is the value of ?

ID: 899c6042 Answer

Correct Answer: 66

Rationale
The correct answer is 66. It’s given that the right circular cone has a height of 22 centimeters cm and a base with a
diameter of 6 cm. Since the diameter of the base of the cone is 6 cm, the radius of the base is 3 cm. The volume 𝑉,
1
in cm3 , of a right circular cone can be found using the formula 𝑉 = 𝜋𝑟2 ℎ, where ℎ is the height, in cm, and 𝑟 is the
3
1 2
radius, in cm, of the base of the cone. Substituting 22 for ℎ and 3 for 𝑟 in this formula yields 𝑉 = 3 𝜋3 22, or 𝑉 = 66𝜋.
Therefore, the volume of the cone is 66𝜋 cm3 . It’s given that the volume of the cone is 𝑛𝜋 cm3 . Therefore, the value of 𝑛
is 66.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 498d6795
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Right triangles and

Trigonometry trigonometry

ID: 498d6795

In triangle , angle is a right angle. The length of side is and the length of side is . What
is the length of side ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 498d6795 Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
2
Choice B is correct. The Pythagorean theorem states that for a right triangle, 𝑐2 = 𝑎2 + 𝑏 , where 𝑐 represents the length
of the hypotenuse and 𝑎 and 𝑏 represent the lengths of the legs. It’s given that in triangle 𝐴𝐵𝐶, angle 𝐵 is a right angle.
Therefore, triangle 𝐴𝐵𝐶 is a right triangle, where the hypotenuse is side 𝐴𝐶 and the legs are sides 𝐴𝐵 and 𝐵𝐶. It’s given
that the lengths of sides 𝐴𝐵 and 𝐵𝐶 are 10√37 and 24√37 , respectively. Substituting these values for 𝑎 and 𝑏 in the
2 2
formula 𝑐2 = 𝑎2 + 𝑏2 yields 𝑐2 = 10√37 + 24√37 , which is equivalent to 𝑐2 = 10037 + 57637, or 𝑐2 = 67637. Taking the
square root of both sides of this equation yields 𝑐 = ± 26√37 . Since 𝑐 represents the length of the hypotenuse, side 𝐴𝐶, 𝑐
must be positive. Therefore, the length of side 𝐴𝐶 is 26√37 .

2 2
Choice A is incorrect. This is the result of solving the equation 𝑐 = 24√37 - 10√37 , not 𝑐2 = 10√37 + 24√37 .

2 2
Choice C is incorrect. This is the result of solving the equation 𝑐 = 10√37 + 24√37 , not 𝑐2 = 10√37 + 24√37 .

Choice D is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 740bf79f
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Lines, angles, and

Trigonometry triangles

ID: 740bf79f

In the figure above, what is the

length of ?

A. 2.2

B. 2.3

C. 2.4

D. 2.5

ID: 740bf79f Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale

Choice C is correct. First, is the hypotenuse of right , whose legs have lengths 3 and 4. Therefore,

, so and . Second, because corresponds to and because

corresponds to , is similar to . The ratio of corresponding sides of similar triangles is

constant, so . Since and it’s given that and , . Solving for NQ results in

, or 2.4.

Choices A, B, and D are incorrect and may result from setting up incorrect ratios.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 3b225698
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Lines, angles, and

Trigonometry triangles

ID: 3b225698

Triangle is similar to triangle such that , , and correspond to , , and , respectively. The measure
of is and . What is the measure of ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 3b225698 Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is correct. It’s given that triangle 𝑋𝑌𝑍 is similar to triangle 𝑅𝑆𝑇, such that 𝑋, 𝑌, and 𝑍 correspond to 𝑅, 𝑆, and 𝑇,
respectively. Since corresponding angles of similar triangles are congruent, it follows that the measure of ∠𝑍 is
congruent to the measure of ∠𝑇. It’s given that the measure of ∠𝑍 is 20°. Therefore, the measure of ∠𝑇 is 20°.

Choice A is incorrect and may result from a conceptual error. Choice B is incorrect. This is half the measure of ∠𝑍.

Choice D is incorrect. This is twice the measure of ∠𝑍.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 249d3f80
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Circles

Trigonometry

ID: 249d3f80

Point is the center of a circle. The measure of arc on this circle is . What is the measure, in degrees, of its
associated angle ?

ID: 249d3f80 Answer

Correct Answer: 100

Rationale
The correct answer is 100. It's given that point 𝑂 is the center of a circle and the measure of arc 𝑅𝑆 on the circle is 100°. It
¯ ¯
follows that points 𝑅 and 𝑆 lie on the circle. Therefore, 𝑂𝑅 and 𝑂𝑆 are radii of the circle. A central angle is an angle formed
by two radii of a circle, with its vertex at the center of the circle. Therefore, ∠𝑅𝑂𝑆 is a central angle. Because the degree
measure of an arc is equal to the measure of its associated central angle, it follows that the measure, in degrees, of
∠𝑅𝑂𝑆 is 100.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID ab176ad6
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Circles

Trigonometry

ID: ab176ad6

The equation defines a circle in the

xy‑plane. What is the radius of the circle?

ID: ab176ad6 Answer

Rationale

The correct answer is 11. A circle with equation , where a, b, and r are constants, has center

and radius r. Therefore, the radius of the given circle is , or 11.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 3e577e4a
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Circles

Trigonometry

ID: 3e577e4a

A circle in the xy-plane has its center at . Line is tangent to this circle at the point . What is the
slope of line ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 3e577e4a Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is correct. A line that's tangent to a circle is perpendicular to the radius of the circle at the point of tangency. It's
given that the circle has its center at -4, - 6 and line 𝑘 is tangent to the circle at the point -7, - 7. The slope of a radius
𝑡-𝑟
defined by the points 𝑞, 𝑟 and 𝑠, 𝑡 can be calculated as . The points -7, - 7 and -4, - 6 define the radius of the circle at
𝑠-𝑞
-6 - -7 1
the point of tangency. Therefore, the slope of this radius can be calculated as -4 - -7
, or 3 . If a line and a radius are
1
perpendicular, the slope of the line must be the negative reciprocal of the slope of the radius. The negative reciprocal of 3
is -3. Thus, the slope of line 𝑘 is -3.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice C is incorrect. This is the slope of the radius of the circle at the point of tangency, not the slope of line 𝑘.

Choice D is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID b0dc920d
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Area and volume

Trigonometry

ID: b0dc920d

A manufacturer determined that right cylindrical containers with a height that is

4 inches longer than the radius offer the optimal number of containers to be
displayed on a shelf. Which of the following expresses the volume, V, in cubic
inches, of such containers, where r is the radius, in inches?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: b0dc920d Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale

Choice D is correct. The volume, V, of a right cylinder is given by the formula , where r represents the radius of
the base of the cylinder and h represents the height. Since the height is 4 inches longer than the radius, the expression
represents the height of each cylindrical container. It follows that the volume of each container is represented by

the equation . Distributing the expression into each term in the parentheses yields .

Choice A is incorrect and may result from representing the height as instead of . Choice B is incorrect and may
result from representing the height as instead of . Choice C is incorrect and may result from representing the

volume of a right cylinder as instead of .

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 55bb437a
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Right triangles and

Trigonometry trigonometry

ID: 55bb437a

In the figure above, . If and

, what is the length of ?

ID: 55bb437a Answer

Rationale

The correct answer is 6. Since , and are both similar to 3-4-5 triangles. This means that
they are both similar to the right triangle with sides of lengths 3, 4, and 5. Since , which is 3 times as long as the

hypotenuse of the 3-4-5 triangle, the similarity ratio of to the 3-4-5 triangle is 3:1. Therefore, the length of

(the side opposite to ) is , and the length of (the side adjacent to ) is . It is also given
that . Since and , it follows that , which means that the similarity ratio of

to the 3-4-5 triangle is 2:1 ( is the side adjacent to ). Therefore, the length of , which is the side
opposite to , is .

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID bd7f6e30
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Lines, angles, and

Trigonometry triangles

ID: bd7f6e30

In the figure above, .

What is the value of x ?

A. 72

B. 66

C. 64

D. 58

ID: bd7f6e30 Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is correct. Since , it follows that is an isosceles triangle with base RU. Therefore,
and are the base angles of an isosceles triangle and are congruent. Let the measures of both and

be . According to the triangle sum theorem, the sum of the measures of the three angles of a triangle is .
Therefore, , so .

Note that is the same angle as . Thus, the measure of is . According to the triangle exterior

angle theorem, an external angle of a triangle is equal to the sum of the opposite interior angles. Therefore, is equal
to the sum of the measures of and ; that is, . Thus, the value of x is 64.

Choice B is incorrect. This is the measure of , but is not congruent to . Choices A and D are
incorrect and may result from a calculation error.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID ffe862a3
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Right triangles and

Trigonometry trigonometry

ID: ffe862a3

An isosceles right triangle has a hypotenuse of length inches. What is the perimeter, in inches, of this triangle?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: ffe862a3 Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is correct. Since the triangle is an isosceles right triangle, the two sides that form the right angle must be the
same length. Let 𝑥 be the length, in inches, of each of those sides. The Pythagorean theorem states that in a right
2
triangle, 𝑎2 + 𝑏 = 𝑐2 , where 𝑐 is the length of the hypotenuse and 𝑎 and 𝑏 are the lengths of the other two sides.
2 2
Substituting 𝑥 for 𝑎, 𝑥 for 𝑏, and 58 for 𝑐 in this equation yields 𝑥2 + 𝑥2 = 58 , or 2𝑥2 = 58 . Dividing each side of this
2 2
58 2 · 58
equation by 2 yields 𝑥2 = , or 𝑥2 = . Taking the square root of each side of this equation yields two solutions:
2 4
58√2 58√2 58√2
𝑥=
2
and 𝑥 = - 2
. The value of 𝑥 must be positive because it represents a side length. Therefore, 𝑥 = 2
, or
𝑥 = 29√2 . The perimeter, in inches, of the triangle is 58 + 𝑥 + 𝑥, or 58 + 2𝑥. Substituting 29√2 for 𝑥 in this expression
gives a perimeter, in inches, of 58 + 229√2 , or 58 + 58√2 .

Choice A is incorrect. This is the length, in inches, of each of the congruent sides of the triangle, not the perimeter, in
inches, of the triangle.

Choice B is incorrect. This is the sum of the lengths, in inches, of the congruent sides of the triangle, not the perimeter, in
inches, of the triangle.

Choice D is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 24cec8d1
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Circles

Trigonometry

ID: 24cec8d1

A circle has center , and points and lie on the circle. In triangle , the measure of is . What is the
measure of , in degrees? (Disregard the degree symbol when entering your answer.)

ID: 24cec8d1 Answer

Correct Answer: 46

Rationale
¯
The correct answer is 46. It's given that 𝑂 is the center of a circle and that points 𝑅 and 𝑆 lie on the circle. Therefore, 𝑂𝑅
¯
and 𝑂𝑆 are radii of the circle. It follows that 𝑂𝑅 = 𝑂𝑆. If two sides of a triangle are congruent, then the angles opposite
them are congruent. It follows that the angles ∠𝑅𝑆𝑂 and ∠𝑂𝑅𝑆, which are across from the sides of equal length, are
congruent. Let 𝑥° represent the measure of ∠𝑅𝑆𝑂. It follows that the measure of ∠𝑂𝑅𝑆 is also 𝑥°. It's given that the
measure of ∠𝑅𝑂𝑆 is 88°. Because the sum of the measures of the interior angles of a triangle is 180°, the equation
𝑥° + 𝑥° + 88° = 180°, or 2𝑥 + 88 = 180, can be used to find the measure of ∠𝑅𝑆𝑂. Subtracting 88 from both sides of this
equation yields 2𝑥 = 92. Dividing both sides of this equation by 2 yields 𝑥 = 46. Therefore, the measure of ∠𝑅𝑆𝑂, in
degrees, is 46.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 8c1aa743
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Area and volume

Trigonometry

ID: 8c1aa743

Rectangles and are similar. The length of each side of is times the length of the
corresponding side of . The area of is square units. What is the area, in square units, of ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 8c1aa743 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. The area of a rectangle is given by 𝑏ℎ, where 𝑏 is the length of the base of the rectangle and ℎ is its
height. Let 𝑥 represent the length, in units, of the base of rectangle ABCD, and let 𝑦 represent its height, in units.
Substituting 𝑥 for 𝑏 and 𝑦 for ℎ in the formula 𝑏ℎ yields 𝑥𝑦. Therefore, the area, in square units, of ABCD can be
represented by the expression 𝑥𝑦. It’s given that the length of each side of EFGH is 6 times the length of the
corresponding side of ABCD. Therefore, the length, in units, of the base of EFGH can be represented by the expression 6𝑥,
and its height, in units, can be represented by the expression 6𝑦. Substituting 6𝑥 for 𝑏 and 6𝑦 for ℎ in the formula 𝑏ℎ
yields 6𝑥6𝑦, which is equivalent to 36𝑥𝑦. Therefore, the area, in square units, of EFGH can be represented by the
expression 36𝑥𝑦. It’s given that the area of ABCD is 54 square units. Since 𝑥𝑦 represents the area, in square units, of
ABCD, substituting 54 for 𝑥𝑦 in the expression 36𝑥𝑦 yields 3654, or 1,944. Therefore, the area, in square units, of EFGH is
1,944.

1
Choice A is incorrect. This is the area of a rectangle where the length of each side of the rectangle is √ 6 , not 6, times the

length of the corresponding side of ABCD.

2
Choice B is incorrect. This is the area of a rectangle where the length of each side of the rectangle is √ 3 , not 6, times the

length of the corresponding side of ABCD.

Choice C is incorrect. This is the area of a rectangle where the length of each side of the rectangle is √6 , not 6, times the
length of the corresponding side of ABCD.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 44b2b894
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Right triangles and

Trigonometry trigonometry

ID: 44b2b894

A rectangle is inscribed in a circle, such that each vertex of the rectangle lies on the circumference of the circle. The
diagonal of the rectangle is twice the length of the shortest side of the rectangle. The area of the rectangle is
square units. What is the length, in units, of the diameter of the circle?

ID: 44b2b894 Answer

Correct Answer: 66

Rationale
The correct answer is 66. It's given that each vertex of the rectangle lies on the circumference of the circle. Therefore, the
length of the diameter of the circle is equal to the length of the diagonal of the rectangle. The diagonal of a rectangle
forms a right triangle with the shortest and longest sides of the rectangle, where the shortest side and the longest side of
the rectangle are the legs of the triangle and the diagonal of the rectangle is the hypotenuse of the triangle. Let 𝑠
represent the length, in units, of the shortest side of the rectangle. Since it's given that the diagonal is twice the length of
the shortest side, 2𝑠 represents the length, in units, of the diagonal of the rectangle. By the Pythagorean theorem, if a
2
right triangle has a hypotenuse with length 𝑐 and legs with lengths 𝑎 and 𝑏, then 𝑎2 + 𝑏 = 𝑐2 . Substituting 𝑠 for 𝑎 and 2𝑠
2 2 2 2
for 𝑐 in this equation yields 𝑠2 + 𝑏 = 2𝑠 , or 𝑠2 + 𝑏 = 4𝑠2 . Subtracting 𝑠2 from both sides of this equation yields 𝑏 = 3𝑠2
. Taking the positive square root of both sides of this equation yields 𝑏 = 𝑠√3 . Therefore, the length, in units, of the
rectangle’s longest side is 𝑠√3 . The area of a rectangle is the product of the length of the shortest side and the length of
the longest side. The lengths, in units, of the shortest and longest sides of the rectangle are represented by 𝑠 and 𝑠√3 ,
and it’s given that the area of the rectangle is 1,089√3 square units. It follows that 1,089√3 = 𝑠𝑠√3 , or 1,089√3 = 𝑠2 √3 .
Dividing both sides of this equation by √3 yields 1,089 = 𝑠2 . Taking the positive square root of both sides of this equation
yields 33 = 𝑠. Since the length, in units, of the diagonal is represented by 2𝑠, it follows that the length, in units, of the
diagonal is 233, or 66. Since the length of the diameter of the circle is equal to the length of the diagonal of the rectangle,
the length, in units, of the diameter of the circle is 66.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 9e44284b
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Circles

Trigonometry

ID: 9e44284b

In the xy-plane, the graph of is a

circle. What is the radius of the circle?

A. 5

B. 6.5

C.

D.

ID: 9e44284b Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is correct. One way to find the radius of the circle is to rewrite the given equation in standard form,
, where is the center of the circle and the radius of the circle is r. To do this, divide the

original equation, , by 2 to make the leading coefficients of and each equal to 1:

. Then complete the square to put the equation in standard form. To do so, first rewrite

as . Second, add 2.25 and 0.25 to

both sides of the equation: . Since ,

, and , it follows that . Therefore, the radius of the circle is

5.

Choices B, C, and D are incorrect and may be the result of errors in manipulating the equation or of a misconception
about the standard form of the equation of a circle in the xy-plane.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 568d66a7
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Right triangles and

Trigonometry trigonometry

ID: 568d66a7

An isosceles right triangle has a perimeter of inches. What is the length, in inches, of one leg of this triangle?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 568d66a7 Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is correct. It's given that the right triangle is isosceles. In an isosceles right triangle, the two legs have equal
lengths, and the length of the hypotenuse is √2 times the length of one of the legs. Let 𝑙 represent the length, in inches,
of each leg of the isosceles right triangle. It follows that the length of the hypotenuse is 𝑙√2 inches. The perimeter of a
figure is the sum of the lengths of the sides of the figure. Therefore, the perimeter of the isosceles right triangle is
𝑙 + 𝑙 + 𝑙√2 inches. It's given that the perimeter of the triangle is 94 + 94√2 inches. It follows that 𝑙 + 𝑙 + 𝑙√2 = 94 + 94√2
. Factoring the left-hand side of this equation yields 1 + 1 + √2 𝑙 = 94 + 94√2 , or 2 + √2 𝑙 = 94 + 94√2 . Dividing both
94 + 94√2
sides of this equation by 2 + √2 yields 𝑙 = 2 + √2
. Rationalizing the denominator of the right-hand side of this equation
2 - √2 94 + 94√2 2 - √2
by multiplying the right-hand side of the equation by 2 - √2
yields 𝑙 = 2 + √2 2 - √2
. Applying the distributive property to the
188 - 94√2 + 188√2 - 94√4
numerator and to the denominator of the right-hand side of this equation yields 𝑙 = 4 - 2√2 + 2√2 - √4
. This is
94√2
equivalent to 𝑙 = 2
, or 𝑙 = 47√2 . Therefore, the length, in inches, of one leg of the isosceles right triangle is 47√2 .

Choice A is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice C is incorrect. This is the length, in inches, of the hypotenuse.

Choice D is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 0e709a29
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Right triangles and

Trigonometry trigonometry

ID: 0e709a29

The side lengths of right triangle are given. Triangle is similar to triangle , where corresponds to
and corresponds to . What is the value of ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 0e709a29 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. The hypotenuse of triangle 𝑅𝑆𝑇 is the longest side and is across from the right angle. The longest
side length given is 584, which is the length of side 𝑇𝑅. Therefore, the hypotenuse of triangle 𝑅𝑆𝑇 is side 𝑇𝑅, so the right
angle is angle 𝑆. The tangent of an acute angle in a right triangle is the ratio of the length of the opposite side, which is
the side across from the angle, to the length of the adjacent side, which is the side closest to the angle that is not the
hypotenuse. It follows that the opposite side of angle 𝑇 is side 𝑅𝑆 and the adjacent side of angle 𝑇 is side 𝑆𝑇. Therefore,
𝑅𝑆 440 55
tan𝑇 =
𝑆𝑇
. Substituting 440 for 𝑅𝑆 and 384 for 𝑆𝑇 in this equation yields tan𝑇 = 384
. This is equivalent to tan𝑇 = 48
. It’s
given that triangle 𝑅𝑆𝑇 is similar to triangle 𝑈𝑉𝑊, where 𝑆 corresponds to 𝑉 and 𝑇 corresponds to 𝑊. It follows that 𝑅
𝑈𝑉
corresponds to 𝑈. Therefore, the hypotenuse of triangle 𝑈𝑉𝑊 is side 𝑊𝑈, which means tan𝑊 = . Since the lengths of
𝑉𝑊
𝑅𝑆 𝑈𝑉 𝑈𝑉 𝑅𝑆
corresponding sides of similar triangles are proportional, = . Therefore, tan𝑊 = is equivalent to tan𝑊 = , or
𝑆𝑇 𝑉𝑊 𝑉𝑊 𝑆𝑇
55
tan𝑊 = tan𝑇. Thus, tan𝑊 = .
48

Choice A is incorrect. This is the value of cos𝑊, not tan𝑊. Choice B is incorrect. This is the value of sin𝑊, not tan𝑊.

1
Choice C is incorrect. This is the value of tan𝑊
, not tan𝑊.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID eeb4143c
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Lines, angles, and

Trigonometry triangles

ID: eeb4143c

The area of triangle ABC above is at least 48 but no more than 60. If y is an
integer, what is one possible value of x ?

ID: eeb4143c Answer

Rationale

The correct answer is either , , or . The area of triangle ABC can be expressed as or . It’s
given that the area of triangle ABC is at least 48 but no more than 60. It follows that . Dividing by 6 to
isolate y in this compound inequality yields . Since y is an integer, . In the given figure, the two
right triangles shown are similar because they have two pairs of congruent angles: their respective right angles and angle

A. Therefore, the following proportion is true: . Substituting 8 for y in the proportion results in . Cross

multiplying and solving for x yields . Substituting 9 for y in the proportion results in . Cross multiplying and

solving for x yields . Substituting 10 for y in the proportion results in . Cross multiplying and solving for x

yields . Note that 10/3, 15/4, 25/6, 3.333, 3.75, 4.166, and 4.167 are examples of ways to enter a correct answer.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 5b2b8866
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Area and volume

Trigonometry

ID: 5b2b8866

A rectangular poster has an area of square inches. A copy of the poster is made in which the length and width of the
original poster are each increased by . What is the area of the copy, in square inches?

ID: 5b2b8866 Answer

Correct Answer: 2592/5, 518.4

Rationale
The correct answer is 518.4. It's given that the area of the original poster is 360 square inches. Let 𝑙 represent the length,
in inches, of the original poster, and let 𝑤 represent the width, in inches, of the original poster. Since the area of a
rectangle is equal to its length times its width, it follows that 360 = 𝑙𝑤. It's also given that a copy of the poster is made in
which the length and width of the original poster are each increased by 20%. It follows that the length of the copy is the
20
length of the original poster plus 20% of the length of the original poster, which is equivalent to 𝑙 + 𝑙 inches. This
100
length can be rewritten as 𝑙 + 0.2𝑙 inches, or 1.2𝑙 inches. Similarly, the width of the copy is the width of the original poster
20
plus 20% of the width of the original poster, which is equivalent to 𝑤 + 100 𝑤 inches. This width can be rewritten as
𝑤 + 0.2𝑤 inches, or 1.2𝑤 inches. Since the area of a rectangle is equal to its length times its width, it follows that the area,
in square inches, of the copy is equal to 1.2𝑙1.2𝑤, which can be rewritten as 1.21.2𝑙𝑤. Since 360 = 𝑙𝑤, the area, in square
inches, of the copy can be found by substituting 360 for 𝑙𝑤 in the expression 1.21.2𝑙𝑤, which yields 1.21.2360, or 518.4.
Therefore, the area of the copy, in square inches, is 518.4.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 9f934297
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Area and volume

Trigonometry

ID: 9f934297

A right rectangular prism has a length of , a width of , and a height of . What is the
surface area, , of the right rectangular prism?

ID: 9f934297 Answer

Correct Answer: 2216

Rationale
The correct answer is 2,216. The surface area of a prism is the sum of the areas of all its faces. A right rectangular prism
consists of six rectangular faces, where opposite faces are congruent. It's given that this prism has a length of 28 cm, a
width of 15 cm, and a height of 16 cm. Thus, for this prism, there are two faces with area 2815 cm2 , two faces with
area 2816 cm2 , and two faces with area 1516 cm2 . Therefore, the surface area, in cm2 , of the right rectangular prism is
22815 + 22816 + 21516, or 2,216.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID dc71597b
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Area and volume

Trigonometry

ID: dc71597b

A right circular cone has a volume of cubic feet and a height of 9 feet.
What is the radius, in feet, of the base of the cone?

A.

B.

C.

D. 3

ID: dc71597b Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale

Choice A is correct. The equation for the volume of a right circular cone is . It’s given that the volume of the

right circular cone is cubic feet and the height is 9 feet. Substituting these values for V and h, respectively, gives

. Dividing both sides of the equation by gives . Dividing both sides of the equation by 9

gives . Taking the square root of both sides results in two possible values for the radius, or .

Since the radius can’t have a negative value, that leaves as the only possibility. Applying the quotient property of

square roots, , results in , or .

Choices B and C are incorrect and may result from incorrectly evaluating . Choice D is incorrect and may result

from solving instead of .

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID f811d345
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Right triangles and

Trigonometry trigonometry

ID: f811d345

A right triangle has legs with lengths of centimeters and centimeters. If the length of this triangle's hypotenuse, in
centimeters, can be written in the form , where is an integer, what is the value of ?

ID: f811d345 Answer

Correct Answer: 113

Rationale
The correct answer is 113. It's given that the legs of a right triangle have lengths 24 centimeters and 21 centimeters. In a
right triangle, the square of the length of the hypotenuse is equal to the sum of the squares of the lengths of the two legs.
2 2 2
It follows that if ℎ represents the length, in centimeters, of the hypotenuse of the right triangle, ℎ = 24 + 21 . This
2
equation is equivalent to ℎ = 1,017. Taking the square root of each side of this equation yields ℎ = √1,017 . This
equation can be rewritten as ℎ = √9 · 113 , or ℎ = √9 · √113 . This equation is equivalent to ℎ = 3√113 . It's given that the
length of the triangle's hypotenuse, in centimeters, can be written in the form 3√𝑑 . It follows that the value of 𝑑 is 113.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID c9931030
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Right triangles and

Trigonometry trigonometry

ID: c9931030

The side lengths of right triangle are given. Triangle is similar to triangle , where corresponds to
and corresponds to . What is the value of ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: c9931030 Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is correct. It's given that right triangle 𝑅𝑆𝑇 is similar to triangle 𝑈𝑉𝑊, where 𝑆 corresponds to 𝑉 and 𝑇
corresponds to 𝑊. It's given that the side lengths of the right triangle 𝑅𝑆𝑇 are 𝑅𝑆 = 20, 𝑆𝑇 = 48, and 𝑇𝑅 = 52.
Corresponding angles in similar triangles are equal. It follows that the measure of angle 𝑇 is equal to the measure of
angle 𝑊. The hypotenuse of a right triangle is the longest side. It follows that the hypotenuse of triangle 𝑅𝑆𝑇 is side 𝑇𝑅.
The hypotenuse of a right triangle is the side opposite the right angle. Therefore, angle 𝑆 is a right angle. The adjacent
side of an acute angle in a right triangle is the side closest to the angle that is not the hypotenuse. It follows that the
adjacent side of angle 𝑇 is side 𝑆𝑇. The opposite side of an acute angle in a right triangle is the side across from the
acute angle. It follows that the opposite side of angle 𝑇 is side 𝑅𝑆. The tangent of an acute angle in a right triangle is the
𝑅𝑆
ratio of the length of the opposite side to the length of the adjacent side. Therefore, tan 𝑇 = 𝑆𝑇
. Substituting 20 for 𝑅𝑆
20 5
and 48 for 𝑆𝑇 in this equation yields tan 𝑇 = 48
, or tan 𝑇 = 12
. The tangents of two acute angles with equal measures
are equal. Since the measure of angle 𝑇 is equal to the measure of angle 𝑊, it follows that tan 𝑇 = tan 𝑊. Substituting
5 5 5
for tan 𝑇 in this equation yields = tan 𝑊. Therefore, the value of tan 𝑊 is .
12 12 12

Choice A is incorrect. This is the value of sin 𝑊. Choice C is incorrect. This is the value of cos 𝑊.

1
Choice D is incorrect. This is the value of tan 𝑊
.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 6933b3d9
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Right triangles and

Trigonometry trigonometry

ID: 6933b3d9

In triangle RST above, point W (not shown) lies on . What is the value of
?

ID: 6933b3d9 Answer

Rationale

The correct answer is 0. Note that no matter where point W is on , the sum of the measures of and
is equal to the measure of , which is . Thus, and are complementary angles. Since the

cosine of an angle is equal to the sine of its complementary angle, . Therefore,

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 6ab30ce3
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Right triangles and

Trigonometry trigonometry

ID: 6ab30ce3

Triangle is similar to triangle , where corresponds to and corresponds to . Angles and are
right angles. If and , what is the length of ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 6ab30ce3 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. Corresponding angles in similar triangles have equal measures. It's given that triangle 𝐴𝐵𝐶 is similar
to triangle 𝐷𝐸𝐹, where 𝐴 corresponds to 𝐷, so the measure of angle 𝐴 is equal to the measure of angle 𝐷. Therefore, if
tan𝐴 = √3 , then tan𝐷 = √3 . It's given that angles 𝐶 and 𝐹 are right angles, so triangles 𝐴𝐵𝐶 and 𝐷𝐸𝐹 are right triangles.
The adjacent side of an acute angle in a right triangle is the side closest to the angle that is not the hypotenuse. It follows
that the adjacent side of angle 𝐷 is side 𝐷𝐹. The opposite side of an acute angle in a right triangle is the side across from
the acute angle. It follows that the opposite side of angle 𝐷 is side 𝐸𝐹. The tangent of an acute angle in a right triangle is
𝐸𝐹
the ratio of the length of the opposite side to the length of the adjacent side. Therefore, tan𝐷 = 𝐷𝐹
. If 𝐷𝐹 = 125, the length
𝐸𝐹 𝐸𝐹
of side 𝐸𝐹 can be found by substituting √3 for tan𝐷 and 125 for 𝐷𝐹 in the equation tan𝐷 = , which yields √3 = .
𝐷𝐹 125
Multiplying both sides of this equation by 125 yields 125√3 = 𝐸𝐹. Since the length of side 𝐸𝐹 is √3 times the length of
side 𝐷𝐹, it follows that triangle 𝐷𝐸𝐹 is a special right triangle with angle measures 30°, 60°, and 90°. Therefore, the length
¯
of the hypotenuse, 𝐷𝐸, is 2 times the length of side 𝐷𝐹, or 𝐷𝐸 = 2𝐷𝐹. Substituting 125 for 𝐷𝐹 in this equation yields
¯
𝐷𝐸 = 2125, or 𝐷𝐸 = 250. Thus, if tan𝐴 = √3 and 𝐷𝐹 = 125, the length of 𝐷𝐸 is 250.

Choice A is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

¯ ¯
Choice C is incorrect. This is the length of 𝐸𝐹, not 𝐷𝐸.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 9acd101f
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Circles

Trigonometry

ID: 9acd101f

The equation represents circle A. Circle B is obtained by shifting circle A down units in the xy-
plane. Which of the following equations represents circle B?

A. msup

B. msup

C. msup

D. msup

ID: 9acd101f Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
2 2
Choice D is correct. The graph in the xy-plane of an equation of the form 𝑥 - ℎ + 𝑦 - 𝑘 = 𝑟2 is a circle with center ℎ, 𝑘 and
2 2 2
a radius of length 𝑟. It's given that circle A is represented by 𝑥2 + 𝑦 - 1 = 49, which can be rewritten as 𝑥2 + 𝑦 - 1 = 7 .
Therefore, circle A has center 0, 1 and a radius of length 7. Shifting circle A down two units is a rigid vertical translation of
circle A that does not change its size or shape. Since circle B is obtained by shifting circle A down two units, it follows
that circle B has the same radius as circle A, and for each point 𝑥, 𝑦 on circle A, the point 𝑥, 𝑦 - 2 lies on circle B. Moreover,
if ℎ, 𝑘 is the center of circle A, then ℎ, 𝑘 - 2 is the center of circle B. Therefore, circle B has a radius of 7 and the center of
2 2 2
circle B is 0, 1 - 2, or 0, - 1. Thus, circle B can be represented by the equation 𝑥2 + 𝑦 + 1 = 7 , or 𝑥2 + 𝑦 + 1 = 49.

Choice A is incorrect. This is the equation of a circle obtained by shifting circle A right 2 units.

Choice B is incorrect. This is the equation of a circle obtained by shifting circle A up 2 units.

Choice C is incorrect. This is the equation of a circle obtained by shifting circle A left 2 units.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 244ff6c4
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Circles

Trigonometry

ID: 244ff6c4

What is the value of ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 244ff6c4 Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is correct. A trigonometric ratio can be found using the unit circle, that is, a circle with radius 1 unit. If a central
angle of a unit circle in the xy-plane centered at the origin has its starting side on the positive x-axis and its terminal side
intersects the circle at a point 𝑥, 𝑦, then the value of the tangent of the central angle is equal to the y-coordinate divided
92𝜋 92 2
by the x-coordinate. There are 2𝜋 radians in a circle. Dividing by 2𝜋 yields , which is equivalent to 15 + . It follows
3 6 3
92𝜋
that on the unit circle centered at the origin in the xy-plane, the angle 3
is the result of 15 revolutions from its starting
2𝜋 92𝜋 2𝜋
side on the positive x-axis followed by a rotation through 3
radians. Therefore, the angles 3
and 3
are coterminal
92𝜋 2𝜋 2𝜋 𝜋
angles and tan 3 is equal to tan 3 . Since 3
is greater than 2
and less than 𝜋, it follows that the terminal side of the
𝜋
angle is in quadrant II and forms an angle of , or 60°, with the negative x-axis. Therefore, the terminal side of the angle
3
√3
1 3 2𝜋
intersects the unit circle at the point - 2 , √2 . It follows that the value of tan 3 is 2
1 , which is equivalent to -√3 . Therefore,
-
2
92𝜋
the value of tan is -√3 .
3

1 92𝜋 1 92𝜋
Choice B is incorrect. This is the value of 92𝜋 , not tan 3
. Choice C is incorrect. This is the value of 𝜋,
tan 3
not tan 3
.
tan 3

𝜋 92𝜋
Choice D is incorrect. This is the value of tan 3 , not tan 3
.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 0acfddb5
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Circles

Trigonometry

ID: 0acfddb5

A circle has center , and points and lie on the circle. Line segments and are tangent to the circle at
points and , respectively. If the radius of the circle is millimeters and the perimeter of quadrilateral is
millimeters, what is the distance, in millimeters, between points and ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 0acfddb5 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. It's given that the radius of the circle is 168 millimeters. Since points 𝑀 and 𝑁 both lie on the circle,
segments 𝐺𝑀 and 𝐺𝑁 are both radii. Therefore, segments 𝐺𝑀 and 𝐺𝑁 each have length 168 millimeters. Two segments
that are tangent to a circle and have a common exterior endpoint have equal length. Therefore, segment 𝑀𝐻 and
segment 𝑁𝐻 have equal length. Let 𝑥 represent the length of segment 𝑀𝐻. Then 𝑥 also represents the length of segment
𝑁𝐻. It's given that the perimeter of quadrilateral 𝐺𝑀𝐻𝑁 is 3,856 millimeters. Since the perimeter of a quadrilateral is
equal to the sum of the lengths of the sides of the quadrilateral, 3,856 = 168 + 168 + 𝑥 + 𝑥, or 3,856 = 336 + 2𝑥.
Subtracting 336 from both sides of this equation yields 3,520 = 2𝑥, and dividing both sides of this equation by 2 yields
1,760 = 𝑥. Therefore, the length of segment 𝑀𝐻 is 1,760 millimeters. A line segment that's tangent to a circle is
perpendicular to the radius of the circle at the point of tangency. Therefore, segment 𝐺𝑀 is perpendicular to segment 𝑀𝐻.
Since perpendicular segments form right angles, angle 𝐺𝑀𝐻 is a right angle. Therefore, triangle 𝐺𝑀𝐻 is a right triangle
with legs of length 1,760 millimeters and 168 millimeters, and hypotenuse 𝐺𝐻. By the Pythagorean theorem, if a right
2
triangle has a hypotenuse with length 𝑐 and legs with lengths 𝑎 and 𝑏, then 𝑎2 + 𝑏 = 𝑐2 . Substituting 1,760 for 𝑎 and 168
2 2
for 𝑏 in this equation yields 1,760 + 168 = 𝑐2 , or 3,125,824 = 𝑐2 . Taking the square root of both sides of this equation
yields ±1,768 = 𝑐. Since 𝑐 represents a length, which must be positive, the value of 𝑐 is 1,768. Therefore, the length of
segment 𝐺𝐻 is 1,768 millimeters, so the distance between points 𝐺 and 𝐻 is 1,768 millimeters.

Choice A is incorrect. This is the distance between points 𝐺 and 𝑀 and between points 𝐺 and 𝑁, not the distance between
points 𝐺 and 𝐻.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice C is incorrect. This is the distance between points 𝑀 and 𝐻 and between points 𝑁 and 𝐻, not the distance
between points 𝐺 and 𝐻.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 5b4757df
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Lines, angles, and

Trigonometry triangles

ID: 5b4757df

In triangle , angle is a right angle, point lies on , point lies on , and is parallel to . If the length
of is units, the length of is units, and the area of triangle is square units, what is the length of
, in units?

ID: 5b4757df Answer

Correct Answer: 14.66, 14.67, 44/3

Rationale
44
The correct answer is 3
. It's given that in triangle 𝑅𝑆𝑇, angle 𝑇 is a right angle. The area of a right triangle can be found
1
using the formula 𝐴 = 𝑙1 𝑙2 , where 𝐴 represents the area of the right triangle, 𝑙1 represents the length of one leg of the
2
¯ ¯
triangle, and 𝑙2 represents the length of the other leg of the triangle. In triangle 𝑅𝑆𝑇, the two legs are 𝑅𝑇 and 𝑆𝑇.
¯ 1
Therefore, if the length of 𝑅𝑇 is 72 and the area of triangle 𝑅𝑆𝑇 is 792, then 792 = 2 72𝑆𝑇, or 792 = 36𝑆𝑇. Dividing both
¯ ¯
sides of this equation by 36 yields 22 = 𝑆𝑇. Therefore, the length of 𝑆𝑇 is 22. It's also given that point 𝐿 lies on 𝑅𝑆, point 𝐾
¯ ¯ ¯
lies on 𝑆𝑇, and 𝐿𝐾 is parallel to 𝑅𝑇. It follows that angle 𝐿𝐾𝑆 is a right angle. Since triangles 𝑅𝑆𝑇 and 𝐿𝑆𝐾 share angle 𝑆
and have right angles 𝑇 and 𝐾, respectively, triangles 𝑅𝑆𝑇 and 𝐿𝑆𝐾 are similar triangles. Therefore, the ratio of the length
¯ ¯ ¯ ¯ ¯
of 𝑅𝑇 to the length of 𝐿𝐾 is equal to the ratio of the length of 𝑆𝑇 to the length of 𝑆𝐾. If the length of 𝑅𝑇 is 72 and the
¯ ¯ ¯ 72 ¯
length of 𝐿𝐾 is 24, it follows that the ratio of the length of 𝑅𝑇 to the length of 𝐿𝐾 is , or so the ratio of the length of 𝑆𝑇
3,
24
¯ 22
to the length of 𝑆𝐾 is 3. Therefore, 𝑆𝐾
= 3. Multiplying both sides of this equation by 𝑆𝐾 yields 22 = 3𝑆𝐾. Dividing both
22 ¯ ¯ 22
sides of this equation by 3 yields = 𝑆𝐾. Since the length of 𝑆𝑇, 22, is the sum of the length of 𝑆𝐾, , and the length of
3 3
¯ ¯ 22 44
𝐾𝑇, it follows that the length of 𝐾𝑇 is 22 - , or . Note that 44/3, 14.66, and 14.67 are examples of ways to enter a
3 3
correct answer.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID ca2235f6
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Circles

Trigonometry

ID: ca2235f6

A circle has center , and points and lie on the circle. The measure of arc is and the length of arc is
inches. What is the circumference, in inches, of the circle?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: ca2235f6 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. It’s given that the measure of arc 𝐴𝐵 is 45° and the length of arc 𝐴𝐵 is 3 inches. The arc measure of
45° 3 inches
the full circle is 360°. If 𝑥 represents the circumference, in inches, of the circle, it follows that =
360°
. This equation
𝑥 inches
45 3 1 3
is equivalent to 360
= , or
𝑥 8
= . Multiplying both sides of this equation by 8𝑥 yields 1 ( 𝑥 ) = 3 ( 8 ) , or 𝑥 = 24. Therefore,
𝑥
the circumference of the circle is 24 inches.

Choice A is incorrect. This is the length of arc 𝐴𝐵.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from multiplying the length of arc 𝐴𝐵 by 2.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from squaring the length of arc 𝐴𝐵.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 9d159400
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Circles

Trigonometry

ID: 9d159400

Which of the following equations represents a circle in the xy-plane that intersects the y-axis at exactly one point?

A. msup

B. msup

C. msup

D. msup

ID: 9d159400 Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
2 2
Choice C is correct. The graph of the equation 𝑥 - ℎ + 𝑦 - 𝑘 = 𝑟2 in the xy-plane is a circle with center ℎ, 𝑘 and a radius of
length 𝑟. The radius of a circle is the distance from the center of the circle to any point on the circle. If a circle in the xy-
plane intersects the y-axis at exactly one point, then the perpendicular distance from the center of the circle to this point
on the y-axis must be equal to the length of the circle's radius. It follows that the x-coordinate of the circle's center must
2 2
be equivalent to the length of the circle's radius. In other words, if the graph of 𝑥 - ℎ + 𝑦 - 𝑘 = 𝑟2 is a circle that
2 2
intersects the y-axis at exactly one point, then 𝑟 = ℎ must be true. The equation in choice C is 𝑥 - 4 + 𝑦 - 9 = 16, or
𝑥 - 42 + 𝑦 - 92 = 42 . This equation is in the form 𝑥 - ℎ2 + 𝑦 - 𝑘2 = 𝑟2 , where ℎ = 4, 𝑘 = 9, and 𝑟 = 4, and represents a circle
in the xy-plane with center 4, 9 and radius of length 4. Substituting 4 for 𝑟 and 4 for ℎ in the equation 𝑟 = ℎ yields 4 = 4, or
4 = 4, which is true. Therefore, the equation in choice C represents a circle in the xy-plane that intersects the y-axis at
exactly one point.

Choice A is incorrect. This is the equation of a circle that does not intersect the y-axis at any point.

Choice B is incorrect. This is an equation of a circle that intersects the x-axis, not the y-axis, at exactly one point.

Choice D is incorrect. This is the equation of a circle with the center located on the y-axis and thus intersects the y-axis at
exactly two points, not exactly one point.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 981275d2
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Circles

Trigonometry

ID: 981275d2

In the xy-plane, the graph of the equation above is a circle. Point P is on the
circle and has coordinates . If is a diameter of the circle, what are
the coordinates of point Q ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 981275d2 Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale

Choice A is correct. The standard form for the equation of a circle is , where are the
coordinates of the center and r is the length of the radius. According to the given equation, the center of the circle is
. Let represent the coordinates of point Q. Since point P and point Q are the endpoints

of a diameter of the circle, the center lies on the diameter, halfway between P and Q. Therefore, the following

relationships hold: and . Solving the equations for and , respectively, yields
and . Therefore, the coordinates of point Q are .

Alternate approach: Since point P on the circle and the center of the circle have the same y-coordinate,

it follows that the radius of the circle is . In addition, the opposite end of the diameter must have the same
y-coordinate as P and be 4 units away from the center. Hence, the coordinates of point Q must be .

Choices B and D are incorrect because the points given in these choices lie on a diameter that is perpendicular to the
diameter . If either of these points were point Q, then would not be the diameter of the circle. Choice C is

incorrect because is the center of the circle and does not lie on the circle.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 89661424
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Circles

Trigonometry

ID: 89661424

A circle in the xy-plane has its center at and has a radius of . An equation of this circle is
, where , , and are constants. What is the value of ?

ID: 89661424 Answer

Correct Answer: -52

Rationale
The correct answer is -52. The equation of a circle in the xy-plane with its center at ℎ, 𝑘 and a radius of 𝑟 can be written in
2 2
the form 𝑥 - ℎ + 𝑦 - 𝑘 = 𝑟2 . It's given that a circle in the xy-plane has its center at -5, 2 and has a radius of 9. Substituting
2 2 2 2 2 2 2
-5 for ℎ, 2 for 𝑘, and 9 for 𝑟 in the equation 𝑥 - ℎ + 𝑦 - 𝑘 = 𝑟2 yields 𝑥 - -5 + 𝑦 - 2 = 9 , or 𝑥 + 5 + 𝑦 - 2 = 81. It's also
given that an equation of this circle is 𝑥2 + 𝑦2 + 𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏𝑦 + 𝑐 = 0, where 𝑎, 𝑏, and 𝑐 are constants. Therefore,
2 2 2 2
𝑥 + 5 + 𝑦 - 2 = 81 can be rewritten in the form 𝑥2 + 𝑦2 + 𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏𝑦 + 𝑐 = 0. The equation 𝑥 + 5 + 𝑦 - 2 = 81, or
𝑥 + 5𝑥 + 5 + 𝑦 - 2𝑦 - 2 = 81, can be rewritten as 𝑥2 + 5𝑥 + 5𝑥 + 25 + 𝑦2 - 2𝑦 - 2𝑦 + 4 = 81. Combining like terms on the
left-hand side of this equation yields 𝑥2 + 𝑦2 + 10𝑥 - 4𝑦 + 29 = 81. Subtracting 81 from both sides of this equation yields
𝑥2 + 𝑦2 + 10𝑥 - 4𝑦 - 52 = 0, which is equivalent to 𝑥2 + 𝑦2 + 10𝑥 + -4𝑦 + -52 = 0. This equation is in the form
𝑥2 + 𝑦2 + 𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏𝑦 + 𝑐 = 0. Therefore, the value of 𝑐 is -52.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 196e8e6e
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Circles

Trigonometry

ID: 196e8e6e

In the xy-plane, a circle has center with coordinates . Points and lie on the circle. Point has coordinates
, and is a right angle. What is the length of ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 196e8e6e Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
¯ ¯
Choice A is correct. It's given that points 𝐴 and 𝐵 lie on the circle with center 𝐶. Therefore, 𝐴𝐶 and 𝐵𝐶 are both radii of the
¯ ¯ ¯
circle. Since all radii of a circle are congruent, 𝐴𝐶 is congruent to 𝐵𝐶. The length of 𝐴𝐶, or the distance from point 𝐴 to
point 𝐶, can be found using the distance formula, which gives the distance between two points, 𝑥1 , 𝑦1 and 𝑥2 , 𝑦2 , as
𝑥 - 𝑥 2 + 𝑦1 - 𝑦2 2 . Substituting the given coordinates of point 𝐴, ℎ + 1, 𝑘 + √102 , for 𝑥1 , 𝑦1 and the given coordinates of
√ 1 2
2 2
point 𝐶, ℎ, 𝑘, for 𝑥2 , 𝑦2 in the distance formula yields √ℎ + 1 - ℎ2 + 𝑘 + √102 - 𝑘 , or √12 + √102 , which is equivalent to
¯ ¯
√1 + 102 , or √103 . Therefore, the length of 𝐴𝐶 is √103 and the length of 𝐵𝐶 is √103 . It's given that angle 𝐴𝐶𝐵 is a right
¯ ¯ ¯
angle. Therefore, triangle 𝐴𝐶𝐵 is a right triangle with legs 𝐴𝐶 and 𝐵𝐶 and hypotenuse 𝐴𝐵. By the Pythagorean theorem, if
2
a right triangle has a hypotenuse with length 𝑐 and legs with lengths 𝑎 and 𝑏, then 𝑎 + 𝑏 = 𝑐2 . Substituting √103 for 𝑎
2
2 2
and 𝑏 in this equation yields √103 + √103 = 𝑐2 , or 103 + 103 = 𝑐2 , which is equivalent to 206 = 𝑐2 . Taking the positive
¯
square root of both sides of this equation yields √206 = 𝑐. Therefore, the length of 𝐴𝐵 is √206 .

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

¯ ¯
Choice C is incorrect. This would be the length of 𝐴𝐵 if the length of 𝐴𝐶 were 103, not √103 .

Choice D is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 7c25b0dc
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Right triangles and

Trigonometry trigonometry

ID: 7c25b0dc

The length of a rectangle’s diagonal is , and the length of the rectangle’s shorter side is . What is the length of the
rectangle’s longer side?

ID: 7c25b0dc Answer

Correct Answer: 12

Rationale
The correct answer is 12. The diagonal of a rectangle forms a right triangle, where the shorter side and the longer side of
the rectangle are the legs of the triangle and the diagonal of the rectangle is the hypotenuse of the triangle. It's given that
the length of the rectangle's diagonal is 3√17 and the length of the rectangle's shorter side is 3. Thus, the length of the
hypotenuse of the right triangle formed by the diagonal is 3√17 and the length of one of the legs is 3. By the Pythagorean
2
theorem, if a right triangle has a hypotenuse with length 𝑐 and legs with lengths 𝑎 and 𝑏, then 𝑎2 + 𝑏 = 𝑐2 . Substituting
2 2
3√17 for 𝑐 and 3 for 𝑏 in this equation yields 𝑎2 + 3 = 3√17 , or 𝑎2 + 9 = 153. Subtracting 9 from both sides of this
equation yields 𝑎2 = 144. Taking the square root of both sides of this equation yields 𝑎 = ± √144 , or 𝑎 = ± 12. Since 𝑎
represents a length, which must be positive, the value of 𝑎 is 12. Thus, the length of the rectangle's longer side is 12.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID e80d62c6
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Circles

Trigonometry

ID: e80d62c6

The equation represents circle A. Circle B is obtained by shifting circle A down units in the xy-
plane. Which of the following equations represents circle B?

A. msup

B. msup

C. msup

D. msup

ID: e80d62c6 Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
2 2
Choice A is correct. The standard form of an equation of a circle in the xy-plane is 𝑥 - ℎ + 𝑦 - 𝑘 = 𝑟2 , where the
coordinates of the center of the circle are ℎ, 𝑘 and the length of the radius of the circle is 𝑟. The equation of circle A,
2 2 2 2
𝑥2 + 𝑦 - 2 = 36, can be rewritten as 𝑥 - 0 + 𝑦 - 2 = 6 . Therefore, the center of circle A is at 0, 2 and the length of the
radius of circle A is 6. If circle A is shifted down 4 units, the y-coordinate of its center will decrease by 4; the radius of the
circle and the x-coordinate of its center will not change. Therefore, the center of circle B is at 0, 2 - 4, or 0, - 2, and its
2 2 2 2 2
radius is 6. Substituting 0 for ℎ, -2 for 𝑘, and 6 for 𝑟 in the equation 𝑥 - ℎ + 𝑦 - 𝑘 = 𝑟2 yields 𝑥 - 0 + 𝑦 - -2 = 6 , or
2 2
𝑥2 + 𝑦 + 2 = 36. Therefore, the equation 𝑥2 + 𝑦 + 2 = 36 represents circle B.

Choice B is incorrect. This equation represents a circle obtained by shifting circle A up, rather than down, 4 units.

Choice C is incorrect. This equation represents a circle obtained by shifting circle A right, rather than down, 4 units.

Choice D is incorrect. This equation represents a circle obtained by shifting circle A left, rather than down, 4 units.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID f243c383
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Area and volume

Trigonometry

ID: f243c383

Two identical rectangular prisms each have a height of . The base of each prism is a square, and
the surface area of each prism is . If the prisms are glued together along a square base, the resulting prism has a
surface area of . What is the side length, in , of each square base?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: f243c383 Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is correct. Let 𝑥 represent the side length, in cm, of each square base. If the two prisms are glued together along
a square base, the resulting prism has a surface area equal to twice the surface area of one of the prisms, minus the area
of the two square bases that are being glued together, which yields 2𝐾 - 2𝑥2 cm2 . It’s given that this resulting surface
92 92 92 92
area is equal to 𝐾 cm2 , so 2𝐾 - 2𝑥2 = 𝐾. Subtracting 𝐾 from both sides of this equation yields 2𝐾 - 𝐾 - 2𝑥2 = 0.
47 47 47 47
47 94 92
This equation can be rewritten by multiplying 2𝐾 on the left-hand side by 47
, which yields 47
𝐾 -
47
𝐾 - 2𝑥2 = 0, or
2 2 47
𝐾 - 2𝑥2 = 0. Adding 2𝑥2 to both sides of this equation yields 𝐾 = 2𝑥2 . Multiplying both sides of this equation by
47 47 2
yields 𝐾 = 47𝑥2 . The surface area 𝐾, in cm2 , of each rectangular prism is equivalent to the sum of the areas of the two
square bases and the areas of the four lateral faces. Since the height of each rectangular prism is 90 cm and the side
length of each square base is 𝑥 cm, it follows that the area of each square base is 𝑥2 cm2 and the area of each lateral
face is 90𝑥 cm2 . Therefore, the surface area of each rectangular prism can be represented by the expression 2𝑥2 + 490𝑥,
or 2𝑥2 + 360𝑥. Substituting this expression for 𝐾 in the equation 𝐾 = 47𝑥2 yields 2𝑥2 + 360𝑥 = 47𝑥2 . Subtracting 2𝑥2 and
360𝑥 from both sides of this equation yields 0 = 45𝑥2 - 360𝑥. Factoring 𝑥 from the right-hand side of this equation yields
0 = 𝑥45𝑥 - 360. Applying the zero product property, it follows that 𝑥 = 0 and 45𝑥 - 360 = 0. Adding 360 to both sides of
the equation 45𝑥 - 360 = 0 yields 45𝑥 = 360. Dividing both sides of this equation by 45 yields 𝑥 = 8. Since a side length
of a rectangular prism can’t be 0, the length of each square base is 8 cm.

Choice A is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice D is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID adae6543
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Lines, angles, and

Trigonometry triangles

ID: adae6543

In the figure, intersects at point , and is parallel to . The lengths of , , and are , , and
, respectively. What is the length of ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: adae6543 Answer

Correct Answer: D
Rationale
Choice D is correct. The figure shows that angle 𝑀𝑅𝐿 and angle 𝑃𝑅𝑄 are vertical angles. Since vertical angles are
¯ ¯ ¯
congruent, angle 𝑀𝑅𝐿 and angle 𝑃𝑅𝑄 are congruent. It’s given that 𝐿𝑀 is parallel to 𝑃𝑄. The figure also shows that 𝐿𝑄
¯ ¯
intersects 𝐿𝑀 and 𝑃𝑄. If two parallel segments are intersected by a third segment, alternate interior angles are
congruent. Thus, alternate interior angles 𝑀𝐿𝑅 and 𝑃𝑄𝑅 are congruent. Since triangles 𝐿𝑀𝑅 and 𝑃𝑄𝑅 have two pairs of
congruent angles, the triangles are similar. Sides 𝐿𝑅 and 𝑀𝑅 in triangle 𝐿𝑀𝑅 correspond to sides 𝑅𝑄 and 𝑅𝑃, respectively,
𝑅𝑄 𝑅𝑃
in triangle 𝑃𝑄𝑅. Since the lengths of corresponding sides in similar triangles are proportional, it follows that 𝐿𝑅
= 𝑀𝑅
. It's
¯ ¯ ¯
given that the lengths of 𝑀𝑅, 𝐿𝑅, and 𝑅𝑃 are 6, 7, and 11, respectively. Substituting 6 for 𝑀𝑅, 7 for 𝐿𝑅, and 11 for 𝑅𝑃 in the
𝑅𝑄 𝑅𝑃 𝑅𝑄 11 11 77 ¯
equation 𝐿𝑅
=
𝑀𝑅
yields 7
=
6
. Multiplying each side of this equation by 7 yields 𝑅𝑄 = 6
7, or 𝑅𝑄 = 6
. It's given that 𝐿𝑄
¯ 77 77
intersects 𝑀𝑃 at point 𝑅, so 𝐿𝑄 = 𝐿𝑅 + 𝑅𝑄. Substituting 7 for 𝐿𝑅 and for 𝑅𝑄 in this equation yields 𝐿𝑄 = 7 + , or
6 6
119 ¯ 119
𝐿𝑄 =
6
. Therefore, the length of 𝐿𝑄 is 6
.

Choice A is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

¯ ¯
Choice B is incorrect. This is the length of 𝑅𝑄, not 𝐿𝑄.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID f731d88b
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Lines, angles, and

Trigonometry triangles

ID: f731d88b

In convex pentagon , segment is parallel to segment . The measure of angle is degrees, and
the measure of angle is degrees. What is the measure, in degrees, of angle ?

ID: f731d88b Answer

Correct Answer: 47

Rationale
The correct answer is 47. It's given that the measure of angle 𝐵 is 139 degrees. Therefore, the exterior angle formed by
extending segment 𝐴𝐵 at point 𝐵 has measure 180 - 139, or 41, degrees. It's given that segment 𝐴𝐵 is parallel to segment
𝐷𝐸. Extending segment 𝐵𝐶 at point 𝐶 and extending segment 𝐷𝐸 at point 𝐷 until the two segments intersect results in a
transversal that intersects two parallel line segments. One of these intersection points is point 𝐵, and let the other
intersection point be point 𝑋. Since segment 𝐴𝐵 is parallel to segment 𝐷𝐸, alternate interior angles are congruent. Angle
𝐶𝑋𝐷 and the exterior angle formed by extending segment 𝐴𝐵 at point 𝐵 are alternate interior angles. Therefore, the
measure of angle 𝐶𝑋𝐷 is 41 degrees. It's given that the measure of angle 𝐷 in pentagon 𝐴𝐵𝐶𝐷𝐸 is 174 degrees.
Therefore, angle 𝐶𝐷𝑋 has measure 180 - 174, or 6, degrees. Since angle 𝐶 in pentagon 𝐴𝐵𝐶𝐷𝐸 is an exterior angle of
triangle 𝐶𝐷𝑋, it follows that the measure of angle 𝐶 is the sum of the measures of angles 𝐶𝐷𝑋 and 𝐶𝑋𝐷. Therefore, the
measure, in degrees, of angle 𝐶 is 6 + 41, or 47.

Alternate approach: A line can be created that's perpendicular to segments 𝐴𝐵 and 𝐷𝐸 and passes through point 𝐶.
Extending segments 𝐴𝐵 and 𝐷𝐸 at points 𝐵 and 𝐷, respectively, until they intersect this line yields two right triangles. Let
these intersection points be point 𝑋 and point 𝑌, and the two right triangles be triangle 𝐵𝑋𝐶 and triangle 𝐷𝑌𝐶. It's given
that the measure of angle 𝐵 is 139 degrees. Therefore, angle 𝐶𝐵𝑋 has measure 180 - 139, or 41, degrees. Since the
measure of angle 𝐶𝐵𝑋 is 41 degrees and the measure of angle 𝐵𝑋𝐶 is 90 degrees, it follows that the measure of angle
𝑋𝐶𝐵 is 180 - 90 - 41, or 49, degrees. It's given that the measure of angle 𝐷 is 174 degrees. Therefore, angle 𝑌𝐷𝐶 has
measure 180 - 174, or 6, degrees. Since the measure of angle 𝑌𝐷𝐶 is 6 degrees and the measure of angle 𝐶𝑌𝐷 is 90
degrees, it follows that the measure of angle 𝐷𝐶𝑌 is 180 - 90 - 6, or 84, degrees. Since angles 𝑋𝐶𝐵, 𝐷𝐶𝑌, and angle 𝐶 in
pentagon 𝐴𝐵𝐶𝐷𝐸 form segment 𝑋𝑌, it follows that the sum of the measures of those angles is 180 degrees. Therefore,
the measure, in degrees, of angle 𝐶 is 180 - 49 - 84, or 47.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 93de3f84
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Area and volume

Trigonometry

ID: 93de3f84

The volume of right circular cylinder A is 22 cubic centimeters. What is the

volume, in cubic centimeters, of a right circular cylinder with twice the radius and
half the height of cylinder A?

A. 11

B. 22

C. 44

D. 66

ID: 93de3f84 Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale

Choice C is correct. The volume of right circular cylinder A is given by the expression , where r is the radius of its
circular base and h is its height. The volume of a cylinder with twice the radius and half the height of cylinder A is given

by , which is equivalent to . Therefore, the volume is twice the volume of cylinder A,

or .

Choice A is incorrect and likely results from not multiplying the radius of cylinder A by 2. Choice B is incorrect and likely
results from not squaring the 2 in 2r when applying the volume formula. Choice D is incorrect and likely results from a
conceptual error.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID fb58c0db
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Circles

Trigonometry

ID: fb58c0db

Points A and B lie on a circle with radius 1, and arc has length . What

fraction of the circumference of the circle is the length of arc ?

ID: fb58c0db Answer

Rationale

The correct answer is . The circumference, C, of a circle is , where r is the length of the radius of the circle.

For the given circle with a radius of 1, the circumference is , or . To find what fraction of the

circumference the length of arc is, divide the length of the arc by the circumference, which gives . This

division can be represented by . Note that 1/6, .1666, .1667, 0.166, and 0.167 are examples of ways to
enter a correct answer.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID ae041e52
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Right triangles and

Trigonometry trigonometry

ID: ae041e52

A square is inscribed in a circle. The radius of the circle is inches. What is the side length, in inches, of the square?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: ae041e52 Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is correct. When a square is inscribed in a circle, a diagonal of the square is a diameter of the circle. It's given
20√2
that a square is inscribed in a circle and the length of a radius of the circle is inches. Therefore, the length of a
2
20 2
diameter of the circle is 2 √ inches, or 20√2 inches. It follows that the length of a diagonal of the square is 20√2
2
inches. A diagonal of a square separates the square into two right triangles in which the legs are the sides of the square
and the hypotenuse is a diagonal. Since a square has 4 congruent sides, each of these two right triangles has congruent
legs and a hypotenuse of length 20√2 inches. Since each of these two right triangles has congruent legs, they are both
45-45-90 triangles. In a 45-45-90 triangle, the length of the hypotenuse is √2 times the length of a leg. Let 𝑠 represent the
length of a leg of one of these 45-45-90 triangles. It follows that 20√2 = √2 𝑠. Dividing both sides of this equation by √2
yields 20 = 𝑠. Therefore, the length of a leg of one of these 45-45-90 triangles is 20 inches. Since the legs of these two 45
-45-90 triangles are the sides of the square, it follows that the side length of the square is 20 inches.

Choice B is incorrect. This is the length of a radius, in inches, of the circle.

Choice C is incorrect. This is the length of a diameter, in inches, of the circle.

Choice D is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID c6dff223
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Right triangles and

Trigonometry trigonometry

ID: c6dff223

Triangle is similar to triangle , where angle corresponds to angle and angles and are right angles.
The length of is times the length of . If , what is the value of ?

ID: c6dff223 Answer

Correct Answer: .7241, 21/29

Rationale
21
The correct answer is 29
. It's given that triangle 𝐴𝐵𝐶 is similar to triangle 𝐷𝐸𝐹, where angle 𝐴 corresponds to angle 𝐷 and
angles 𝐶 and 𝐹 are right angles. In similar triangles, the tangents of corresponding angles are equal. Therefore, if
21 21
tan𝐴 = , then tan𝐷 = . In a right triangle, the tangent of an acute angle is the ratio of the length of the leg opposite the
20 20
21 ¯
angle to the length of the leg adjacent to the angle. Therefore, in triangle 𝐷𝐸𝐹, if tan𝐷 = , the ratio of the length of 𝐸𝐹 to
20
¯ 21 ¯ ¯ ¯
the length of 𝐷𝐹 is 20
. If the lengths of 𝐸𝐹 and 𝐷𝐹 are 21 and 20, respectively, then the ratio of the length of 𝐸𝐹 to the
¯ 21
length of 𝐷𝐹 is 20
. In a right triangle, the sine of an acute angle is the ratio of the length of the leg opposite the angle to
¯ ¯
the length of the hypotenuse. Therefore, the value of sin𝐷 is the ratio of the length of 𝐸𝐹 to the length of 𝐷𝐸. The length
¯
of 𝐷𝐸 can be calculated using the Pythagorean theorem, which states that if the lengths of the legs of a right triangle are
2 ¯ ¯
𝑎 and 𝑏 and the length of the hypotenuse is 𝑐, then 𝑎2 + 𝑏 = 𝑐2 . Therefore, if the lengths of 𝐸𝐹 and 𝐷𝐹 are 21 and 20,
2 2 2 2
respectively, then 21 + 20 = 𝐷𝐸 , or 841 = 𝐷𝐸 . Taking the positive square root of both sides of this equation yields
¯ ¯ ¯
29 = 𝐷𝐸. Therefore, if the lengths of 𝐸𝐹 and 𝐷𝐹 are 21 and 20, respectively, then the length of 𝐷𝐸 is 29 and the ratio of
¯ ¯ 21 21 21
the length of 𝐸𝐹 to the length of 𝐷𝐸 is . Thus, if tan𝐴 = , the value of sin𝐷 is . Note that 21/29, .7241, and 0.724 are
29 20 29
examples of ways to enter a correct answer.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID eb70d2d0
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Area and volume

Trigonometry

ID: eb70d2d0

What is the area, in square units, of the triangle formed by connecting the three points shown?

ID: eb70d2d0 Answer

Correct Answer: 24.5, 49/2
Rationale
The correct answer is 24.5. It's given that a triangle is formed by connecting the three points shown, which are -3, 4, 5, 3,
and 4, - 3. Let this triangle be triangle A. The area of triangle A can be found by calculating the area of the rectangle that
circumscribes it and subtracting the areas of the three triangles that are inside the rectangle but outside triangle A. The
rectangle formed by the points -3, 4, 5, 4, 5, - 3, and -3, - 3 circumscribes triangle A. The width, in units, of this rectangle
can be found by calculating the distance between the points 5, 4 and 5, - 3. This distance is 4 - -3, or 7. The length, in
units, of this rectangle can be found by calculating the distance between the points 5, 4 and -3, 4. This distance is 5 - -3,
or 8. It follows that the area, in square units, of the rectangle is 78, or 56. One of the triangles that lies inside the rectangle
but outside triangle A is formed by the points -3, 4, 5, 4, and 5, 3. The length, in units, of a base of this triangle can be
found by calculating the distance between the points 5, 4 and 5, 3. This distance is 4 - 3, or 1. The corresponding height, in
units, of this triangle can be found by calculating the distance between the points 5, 4 and -3, 4. This distance is 5 - -3, or
1
8. It follows that the area, in square units, of this triangle is 81, or 4. A second triangle that lies inside the rectangle but
2
outside triangle A is formed by the points 4, - 3, 5, 3, and 5, - 3. The length, in units, of a base of this triangle can be found
by calculating the distance between the points 5, 3 and 5, - 3. This distance is 3 - -3 , or 6. The corresponding height, in
units, of this triangle can be found by calculating the distance between the points 5, - 3 and 4, - 3. This distance is 5 - 4,
1
or 1. It follows that the area, in square units, of this triangle is 2 16, or 3. The third triangle that lies inside the rectangle but
outside triangle A is formed by the points -3, 4, -3, - 3, and 4, - 3. The length, in units, of a base of this triangle can be
found by calculating the distance between the points 4, - 3 and -3, - 3. This distance is 4 - -3, or 7. The corresponding
height, in units, of this triangle can be found by calculating the distance between the points -3, 4 and -3, - 3. This distance
1
is 4 - -3, or 7. It follows that the area, in square units, of this triangle is 77, or 24.5. Thus, the area, in square units, of the
2
triangle formed by connecting the three points shown is 56 - 4 - 3 - 24.5, or 24.5. Note that 24.5 and 49/2 are examples of
ways to enter a correct answer.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID f329442c
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Area and volume

Trigonometry

ID: f329442c

Circle has a radius of and circle has a radius of , where is a positive constant. The area of circle is
how many times the area of circle ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: f329442c Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. The area of a circle can be found by using the formula 𝐴 = 𝜋𝑟2 , where 𝐴 is the area and 𝑟 is the radius
of the circle. It’s given that the radius of circle A is 3𝑛. Substituting this value for 𝑟 into the formula 𝐴 = 𝜋𝑟2 gives
2
𝐴 = 𝜋3𝑛 , or 9𝜋𝑛2 . It’s also given that the radius of circle B is 129𝑛. Substituting this value for 𝑟 into the formula 𝐴 = 𝜋𝑟2
16,641𝜋𝑛2
gives 𝐴 = 𝜋129𝑛2 , or 16,641𝜋𝑛2 . Dividing the area of circle B by the area of circle A gives , which simplifies to
9𝜋𝑛2
1,849. Therefore, the area of circle B is 1,849 times the area of circle A.

Choice A is incorrect. This is how many times greater the radius of circle B is than the radius of circle A.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice C is incorrect. This is the coefficient on the term that describes the radius of circle B.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 92eb236a
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Right triangles and

Trigonometry trigonometry

ID: 92eb236a

In a right triangle, the tangent of one of the two acute angles is . What
is the tangent of the other acute angle?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 92eb236a Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. The tangent of a nonright angle in a right triangle is defined as the ratio of the length of the leg
opposite the angle to the length of the leg adjacent to the angle. Using that definition for tangent, in a right triangle with

legs that have lengths a and b, the tangent of one acute angle is and the tangent for the other acute angle is . It
follows that the tangents of the acute angles in a right triangle are reciprocals of each other. Therefore, the tangent of the

other acute angle in the given triangle is the reciprocal of or .

Choice A is incorrect and may result from assuming that the tangent of the other acute angle is the negative of the
tangent of the angle described. Choice B is incorrect and may result from assuming that the tangent of the other acute
angle is the negative of the reciprocal of the tangent of the angle described. Choice C is incorrect and may result from
interpreting the tangent of the other acute angle as equal to the tangent of the angle described.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 17912810
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Lines, angles, and

Trigonometry triangles

ID: 17912810

In the figure, parallel lines and are intersected by lines and . If and , what is the value of ?

ID: 17912810 Answer

Correct Answer: 101/2, 50.5

Rationale
101
The correct answer is 2
. In the figure, lines 𝑞, 𝑟, and 𝑠 form a triangle. One interior angle of this triangle is vertical to the
angle marked 𝑎°; therefore, the interior angle also has measure 𝑎°. It's given that 𝑎 = 43. Therefore, the interior angle of
the triangle has measure 43°. A second interior angle of the triangle forms a straight line, 𝑞, with the angle marked 𝑏°.
Therefore, the sum of the measures of these two angles is 180°. It's given that 𝑏 = 122. Therefore, the angle marked 𝑏°
has measure 122° and the second interior angle of the triangle has measure 180 - 122°, or 58°. The sum of the interior
angles of a triangle is 180°. Therefore, the measure of the third interior angle of the triangle is 180 - 43 - 58°, or 79°. It's
given that parallel lines 𝑞 and 𝑡 are intersected by line 𝑟. It follows that the triangle's interior angle with measure 79° is
congruent to the same side interior angle between lines 𝑞 and 𝑡 formed by lines 𝑡 and 𝑟. Since this angle is
supplementary to the two angles marked 𝑤°, the sum of 79°, 𝑤°, and 𝑤° is 180°. It follows that 79 + 𝑤 + 𝑤 = 180, or
79 + 2𝑤 = 180. Subtracting 79 from both sides of this equation yields 2𝑤 = 101. Dividing both sides of this equation by 2
101
yields 𝑤 = 2
. Note that 101/2 and 50.5 are examples of ways to enter a correct answer.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 099526fc
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Area and volume

Trigonometry

ID: 099526fc

The line segment shown in the xy-plane represents one of the legs of a right triangle. The area of this triangle is
square units. What is the length, in units, of the other leg of this triangle?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 099526fc Answer

Correct Answer: B
Rationale
Choice B is correct. The length of a segment in the xy-plane can be found using the distance formula, 𝑥2 - 𝑥1 2 + 𝑦2 - 𝑦1 2 ,
√
where 𝑥1 , 𝑦1 and 𝑥2 , 𝑦2 are the endpoints of the segment. The segment shown has endpoints at -6, 4 and 3, 10.
Substituting -6, 4 and 3, 10 for 𝑥1 , 𝑦 and 𝑥2 , 𝑦 , respectively, in the distance formula yields √3 - -62 + 10 - 42 , or √92 + 62 ,
1 2
which is equivalent to √81 + 36 , or √117 . Let 𝑥 represent the length, in units, of the other leg of this triangle. The area, 𝐴,
1
of a right triangle can be calculated using the formula 𝐴 = 𝑏ℎ, where 𝑏 and ℎ are the lengths of the legs of the triangle.
2
It's given that the area of the triangle is 36√13 square units. Substituting 36√13 for 𝐴, √117 for 𝑏, and 𝑥 for ℎ in the
1 1
formula 𝐴 = 2 𝑏ℎ yields 36√13 = 2 √117 𝑥. Multiplying both sides of this equation by 2 yields 72√13 = 𝑥√117 . Dividing
72√13
both sides of this equation by √117 yields = 𝑥. Multiplying the numerator and denominator on the left-hand side of
√117
72√1,521 7239 2,808
this equation by √117 yields = 𝑥, or = 𝑥, which is equivalent to = 𝑥, or 24 = 𝑥. Therefore, the length, in
117 117 117
units, of the other leg of this triangle is 24.

Choice A is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice C is incorrect. 3√13 is equivalent to √117 , which is the length, in units, of the line segment shown in the xy-plane,
not the length, in units, of the other leg of the triangle.

Choice D is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 694b7fce
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Lines, angles, and

Trigonometry triangles

ID: 694b7fce

In the figure shown, units, units, and units. What is the area, in square units, of triangle
?

ID: 694b7fce Answer

Correct Answer: 480

Rationale
The correct answer is 480. It's given in the figure that angle 𝐴𝐶𝐵 and angle 𝐴𝐸𝐷 are right angles. It follows that angle 𝐴𝐶𝐵
is congruent to angle 𝐴𝐸𝐷. It's also given that angle 𝐵𝐴𝐶 and angle 𝐷𝐴𝐸 are the same angle. It follows that angle 𝐵𝐴𝐶 is
congruent to angle 𝐷𝐴𝐸. Since triangles 𝐴𝐵𝐶 and 𝐴𝐷𝐸 have two pairs of congruent angles, the triangles are similar. Sides
𝐴𝐵 and 𝐴𝐶 in triangle 𝐴𝐵𝐶 correspond to sides 𝐴𝐷 and 𝐴𝐸, respectively, in triangle 𝐴𝐷𝐸. Corresponding sides in similar
𝐴𝐷 𝐴𝐸
triangles are proportional. Therefore, 𝐴𝐵
=
𝐴𝐶
. It's given that 𝐴𝐶 = 3 units and 𝐶𝐸 = 21 units. Therefore, 𝐴𝐸 = 24 units. It’s
𝐴𝐷 𝐴𝐸 𝐴𝐷 24
also given that 𝐴𝐵 = √34 units. Substituting 3 for 𝐴𝐶, 24 for 𝐴𝐸, and √34 for 𝐴𝐵 in the equation 𝐴𝐵
= 𝐴𝐶
yields = ,
√34 3
𝐴𝐷
or = 8. Multiplying each side of this equation by √34 yields 𝐴𝐷 = 8√34 . By the Pythagorean theorem, if a right
√34
triangle has a hypotenuse with length 𝑐 and legs with lengths 𝑎 and 𝑏, then 𝑎2 + 𝑏2 = 𝑐2 . Since triangle 𝐴𝐷𝐸 is a right
triangle, it follows that 𝐴𝐷 represents the length of the hypotenuse, 𝑐, and 𝐷𝐸 and 𝐴𝐸 represent the lengths of the legs, 𝑎
2 2 2
and 𝑏. Substituting 24 for 𝑏 and 8√34 for 𝑐 in the equation 𝑎2 + 𝑏 = 𝑐2 yields 𝑎2 + 24 = 8√34 , which is equivalent to
𝑎2 + 576 = 6434, or 𝑎2 + 576 = 2,176. Subtracting 576 from both sides of this equation yields 𝑎2 = 1,600. Taking the
square root of both sides of this equation yields 𝑎 = ± 40. Since 𝑎 represents a length, which must be positive, the value
of 𝑎 is 40. Therefore, 𝐷𝐸 = 40. Since 𝐷𝐸 and 𝐴𝐸 represent the lengths of the legs of triangle 𝐴𝐷𝐸, it follows that 𝐷𝐸 and
1
𝐴𝐸 can be used to calculate the area, in square units, of the triangle as 4024, or 480. Therefore, the area, in square units,
2
of triangle 𝐴𝐷𝐸 is 480.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID f7e626b2
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Area and volume

Trigonometry

ID: f7e626b2

The dimensions of a right rectangular prism are 4 inches by 5 inches by

6 inches. What is the surface area, in square inches, of the prism?

A. 30

B. 74

C. 120

D. 148

ID: f7e626b2 Answer

Rationale
Choice D is correct. The surface area is found by summing the area of each face. A right rectangular prism consists of
three pairs of congruent rectangles, so the surface area is found by multiplying the areas of three adjacent rectangles by
2 and adding these products. For this prism, the surface area is equal to , or
, which is equal to 148.

Choice A is incorrect. This is the area of one of the faces of the prism. Choice B is incorrect and may result from adding
the areas of three adjacent rectangles without multiplying by 2. Choice C is incorrect. This is the volume, in cubic inches,
of the prism.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 2be01bd9
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Right triangles and

Trigonometry trigonometry

ID: 2be01bd9

Triangle is similar to triangle , where angle corresponds to angle and angle corresponds to angle .
Angles and are right angles. If , what is the value of ?

ID: 2be01bd9 Answer

Correct Answer: .14, 7/50

Rationale
7
The correct answer is 50
. It's given that triangle 𝐴𝐵𝐶 is similar to triangle 𝐷𝐸𝐹, where angle 𝐴 corresponds to angle 𝐷 and
angle 𝐶 corresponds to angle 𝐹. In similar triangles, the tangents of corresponding angles are equal. Since angle 𝐴 and
50 50
angle 𝐷 are corresponding angles, if tan𝐴 = 7
, then tan𝐷 = 7
. It's also given that angles 𝐶 and 𝐹 are right angles. It
follows that triangle 𝐷𝐸𝐹 is a right triangle with acute angles 𝐷 and 𝐸. The tangent of one acute angle in a right triangle is
1 50
the inverse of the tangent of the other acute angle in the triangle. Therefore, tan𝐸 = . Substituting for tan𝐷 in this
tan𝐷 7
1 7 50 7
equation yields tan𝐸 = 50 , or tan𝐸 = 50
. Thus, if tan𝐴 = 7
, the value of tan𝐸 is 50
. Note that 7/50 and .14 are examples of
7
ways to enter a correct answer.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID a38c0183
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Circles

Trigonometry

ID: a38c0183

Circle A (shown) is defined by the equation . Circle B (not shown) is the result of shifting circle A
down units and increasing the radius so that the radius of circle B is times the radius of circle A. Which equation
defines circle B?

A. msup

B. msup

C. msup

D. msup

ID: a38c0183 Answer

Correct Answer: A
Rationale
Choice A is correct. According to the graph, the center of circle A has coordinates -2, 0, and the radius of circle A is 3. It’s
given that circle B is the result of shifting circle A down 6 units and increasing the radius so that the radius of circle B is 2
times the radius of circle A. It follows that the center of circle B is 6 units below the center of circle A. The point that's 6
units below -2, 0 has the same x-coordinate as -2, 0 and has a y-coordinate that is 6 less than the y-coordinate of -2, 0.
Therefore, the coordinates of the center of circle B are -2, 0 - 6, or -2, - 6. Since the radius of circle B is 2 times the radius
of circle A, the radius of circle B is 23. A circle in the xy-plane can be defined by an equation of the form
2 2
𝑥 - ℎ + 𝑦 - 𝑘 = 𝑟2 , where the coordinates of the center of the circle are ℎ, 𝑘 and the radius of the circle is 𝑟. Substituting
-2 for ℎ, -6 for 𝑘, and 23 for 𝑟 in this equation yields 𝑥 - -22 + 𝑦 - -62 = 232 , which is equivalent to 𝑥 + 22 + 𝑦 + 62 = 22 32 ,
2 2 2 2
or 𝑥 + 2 + 𝑦 + 6 = 49. Therefore, the equation 𝑥 + 2 + 𝑦 + 6 = 49 defines circle B.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice C is incorrect. This equation defines a circle that’s the result of shifting circle A up, not down, by 6 units and
increasing the radius.

Choice D is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID dba6a25a
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Right triangles and

Trigonometry trigonometry

ID: dba6a25a

In the figure above, is parallel to .

What is the length of ?

ID: dba6a25a Answer

Rationale

The correct answer is 30. In the figure given, since is parallel to and both segments are intersected by , then
angle BDC and angle AEC are corresponding angles and therefore congruent. Angle BCD and angle ACE are also
congruent because they are the same angle. Triangle BCD and triangle ACE are similar because if two angles of one
triangle are congruent to two angles of another triangle, the triangles are similar. Since triangle BCD and triangle ACE are
similar, their corresponding sides are proportional. So in triangle BCD and triangle ACE, corresponds to and

corresponds to . Therefore, . Since triangle BCD is a right triangle, the Pythagorean theorem can be

used to give the value of CD: . Taking the square root of each side gives . Substituting the values

in the proportion yields . Multiplying each side by CE, and then multiplying by yields

. Therefore, the length of is 30.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID acd30391
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Circles

Trigonometry

ID: acd30391

A circle in the xy-plane has equation . Which of the

following points does NOT lie in the interior of the circle?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: acd30391 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale

Choice D is correct. The circle with equation has center and radius 5. For a point to be
inside of the circle, the distance from that point to the center must be less than the radius, 5. The distance between

and is , which is greater than 5. Therefore, does NOT lie

in the interior of the circle.

Choice A is incorrect. The distance between and is ,

which is less than 5, and therefore lies in the interior of the circle. Choice B is incorrect because it is the center of

the circle. Choice C is incorrect because the distance between and is

, which is less than 5, and therefore in the interior of the circle.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 8027db3f
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Right triangles and

Trigonometry trigonometry

ID: 8027db3f

In triangle , and angle is a right angle. What is the value of ?

ID: 8027db3f Answer

Correct Answer: .8823, .8824, 15/17

Rationale
15
The correct answer is 17
. It's given that angle 𝐽 is the right angle in triangle 𝐽𝐾𝐿. Therefore, the acute angles of triangle
𝐽𝐾𝐿 are angle 𝐾 and angle 𝐿. The hypotenuse of a right triangle is the side opposite its right angle. Therefore, the
hypotenuse of triangle 𝐽𝐾𝐿 is side 𝐾𝐿. The cosine of an acute angle in a right triangle is the ratio of the length of the side
24 8
adjacent to the angle to the length of the hypotenuse. It's given that cos𝐾 = 51
. This can be written as cos𝐾 = 17
. Since
the cosine of angle 𝐾 is a ratio, it follows that the length of the side adjacent to angle 𝐾 is 8𝑛 and the length of the
hypotenuse is 17𝑛, where 𝑛 is a constant. Therefore, 𝐽𝐾 = 8𝑛 and 𝐾𝐿 = 17𝑛. The Pythagorean theorem states that in a
right triangle, the square of the length of the hypotenuse is equal to the sum of the squares of the lengths of the other
2 2 2 2 2 2
two sides. For triangle 𝐽𝐾𝐿, it follows that 𝐽𝐾 + 𝐽𝐿 = 𝐾𝐿 . Substituting 8𝑛 for 𝐽𝐾 and 17𝑛 for 𝐾𝐿 yields 8𝑛 + 𝐽𝐿 = 17𝑛 .
2 2
This is equivalent to 64𝑛2 + 𝐽𝐿 = 289𝑛2 . Subtracting 64𝑛2 from each side of this equation yields 𝐽𝐿 = 225𝑛2 . Taking the
𝐽𝐿 15𝑛
square root of each side of this equation yields 𝐽𝐿 = 15𝑛. Since cos𝐿 = , it follows that cos𝐿 = , which can be
𝐾𝐿 17𝑛
15
rewritten as cos𝐿 = 17
. Note that 15/17, .8824, .8823, and 0.882 are examples of ways to enter a correct answer.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 1bf809b5
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Right triangles and

Trigonometry trigonometry

ID: 1bf809b5

In the triangle shown, what is the value of ?

ID: 1bf809b5 Answer

Correct Answer: .3928, .3929, 11/28

Rationale
11
The correct answer is 28
. The cosine of an acute angle in a right triangle is defined as the ratio of the length of the leg
adjacent to the angle to the length of the hypotenuse. In the triangle shown, the length of the leg adjacent to the angle
11
with measure 𝑥° is 11 units and the length of the hypotenuse is 28 units. Therefore, the value of cos𝑥° is . Note that
28
11/28, .3928, .3929, 0.392, and 0.393 are examples of ways to enter a correct answer.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 306264ab
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Area and volume

Trigonometry

ID: 306264ab

A right triangle has sides of length , , and units. What is the area of the triangle, in square units?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: 306264ab Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
1
Choice B is correct. The area, 𝐴, of a triangle can be found using the formula 𝐴 = 2 𝑏ℎ, where 𝑏 is the length of the base of
the triangle and ℎ is the height of the triangle. It's given that the triangle is a right triangle. Therefore, its base and height
can be represented by the two legs. It’s also given that the triangle has sides of length 2√2 , 6√2 , and √80 units. Since
√80 units is the greatest of these lengths, it's the length of the hypotenuse. Therefore, the two legs have lengths 2√2 and
1 1
6√2 units. Substituting these values for 𝑏 and ℎ in the formula 𝐴 = 𝑏ℎ gives 𝐴 = 2√2 6√2 , which is equivalent to
2 2
𝐴 = 6√4 square units, or 𝐴 = 12 square units.

Choice A is incorrect. This expression represents the perimeter, rather than the area, of the triangle.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice D is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 6a3fbec3
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Lines, angles, and

Trigonometry triangles

ID: 6a3fbec3

In the figure above, and .

What is the length of ?

ID: 6a3fbec3 Answer

Rationale
The correct answer is 4.5. According to the properties of right triangles, BD divides triangle ABC into two similar triangles,
ABD and BCD. The corresponding sides of ABD and BCD are proportional, so the ratio of BD to AD is the same as the ratio

of DC to BD. Expressing this information as a proportion gives . Solving the proportion for DC results in
. Note that 4.5 and 9/2 are examples of ways to enter a correct answer.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 459dd6c5
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Area and volume

Trigonometry

ID: 459dd6c5

Triangles and are similar. Each side length of triangle is times the corresponding side length of
triangle . The area of triangle is square inches. What is the area, in square inches, of triangle ?

ID: 459dd6c5 Answer

Correct Answer: 135/8, 16.87, 16.88

Rationale
135
The correct answer is 8
. It's given that triangles ABC and DEF are similar and each side length of triangle ABC is 4 times
the corresponding side length of triangle DEF. For two similar triangles, if each side length of the first triangle is 𝑘 times
2
the corresponding side length of the second triangle, then the area of the first triangle is 𝑘 times the area of the second
2
triangle. Therefore, the area of triangle ABC is 4 , or 16, times the area of triangle DEF. It's given that the area of triangle
ABC is 270 square inches. Let 𝑎 represent the area, in square inches, of triangle DEF. It follows that 270 is 16 times 𝑎, or
270 135
270 = 16𝑎. Dividing both sides of this equation by 16 yields = 𝑎, which is equivalent to = 𝑎. Thus, the area, in
16 8
135
square inches, of triangle DEF is . Note that 135/8, 16.87, and 16.88 are examples of ways to enter a correct answer.
8

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 25da87f8
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Right triangles and

Trigonometry trigonometry

ID: 25da87f8

A triangle with angle measures 30°, 60°, and 90° has a perimeter of .
What is the length of the longest side of the triangle?

ID: 25da87f8 Answer

Rationale
The correct answer is 12. It is given that the triangle has angle measures of 30°, 60°, and 90°, and so the triangle is a
special right triangle. The side measures of this type of special triangle are in the ratio . If x is the measure of the
shortest leg, then the measure of the other leg is and the measure of the hypotenuse is 2x. The perimeter of the

triangle is given to be , and so the equation for the perimeter can be written as .
Combining like terms and factoring out a common factor of x on the left-hand side of the equation gives
. Rewriting the right-hand side of the equation by factoring out 6 gives .

Dividing both sides of the equation by the common factor gives x = 6. The longest side of the right triangle, the
hypotenuse, has a length of 2x, or 2(6), which is 12.

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 310c87fe
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Geometry and Area and volume

Trigonometry

ID: 310c87fe

A cube has a surface area of 54 square meters. What is the

volume, in cubic meters, of the cube?

A. 18

B. 27

C. 36

D. 81

ID: 310c87fe Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale

Choice B is correct. The surface area of a cube with side length s is equal to . Since the surface area is given as 54

square meters, the equation can be used to solve for s. Dividing both sides of the equation by 6 yields .
Taking the square root of both sides of this equation yields and . Since the side length of a cube must be a
positive value, can be discarded as a possible solution, leaving . The volume of a cube with side length s is

equal to . Therefore, the volume of this cube, in cubic meters, is , or 27.

Choices A, C, and D are incorrect and may result from calculation errors.

Question Difficulty: Hard