Question ID beca03de

Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: beca03de

A rectangle has a length that is 15 times its width. The function 𝑦 = 15𝑤𝑤 represents this situation, where 𝑦 is the area,
in square feet, of the rectangle and 𝑦 > 0. Which of the following is the best interpretation of 15𝑤 in this context?

A. The length of the rectangle, in feet

B. The area of the rectangle, in square feet

C. The difference between the length and the width of the rectangle, in feet

D. The width of the rectangle, in feet

ID: beca03de Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is correct. It's given that a rectangle has a length that is 15 times its width. It's also given that the function
𝑦 = 15𝑤𝑤 represents this situation, where 𝑦 is the area, in square feet, of the rectangle and 𝑦 > 0. The area of a rectangle
can be calculated by multiplying the rectangle's length by its width. Since the rectangle has a length that is 15 times its
width, it follows that 𝑤 represents the width of the rectangle, in feet, and 15𝑤 represents the length of the rectangle, in
feet. Therefore, the best interpretation of 15𝑤 in this context is that it's the length of the rectangle, in feet.

Choice B is incorrect. This is the best interpretation of 𝑦, not 15𝑤, in the given function.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual errors.

Choice D is incorrect. This is the best interpretation of 𝑤, not 15𝑤, in the given function.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 301faf80
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 301faf80

The product of two positive integers is 462. If the first integer is 5 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
- 2 . Adding 14 to both sides of the equation 𝑦 - 14 = 0 yields 𝑦 = 14. Substituting 14 for 𝑦 in the equation 𝑥𝑦 = 462 yields
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

𝑥 𝑔𝑥

-27 3

-9 0

21 5
𝑓𝑥
The table shows three values of 𝑥 and their corresponding values of 𝑔𝑥, where 𝑔𝑥 = and 𝑓 is a linear function. What
𝑥+3
is the y-intercept of the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥 in the xy-plane?

A. (0, 36)

B. (0, 12)

C. (0, 4)

D. (0, - 9)

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 = . It's
𝑥+3
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,
𝑦 -𝑦
and the formula 𝑚 = 𝑥2 - 𝑥1 . Since the table shows values of 𝑥 and their corresponding values of 𝑔𝑥, substituting values of
2 1
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 = -9 + 3
, or
𝑓-9
0= -6
. Multiplying each side of this equation by -6 yields 0 = 𝑓-9, so the point -9, 0 is on the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥.
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

𝑓𝑥 = 𝑥2 - 48𝑥 + 2,304 What is the minimum value of the given function?

ID: 358f18bc Answer

Correct Answer: 1728

Rationale
The correct answer is 1,728. The given function can be rewritten in the form 𝑓𝑥 = 𝑎𝑥 - ℎ2 + 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
+ 2,304 - 2
, or 𝑓𝑥 = 𝑥 - 24 + 1,728. This equation is in the
form 𝑓𝑥 = 𝑎𝑥 - ℎ2 + 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 8490cc45
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 8490cc45

𝑥
The function 𝑓 is defined by 𝑓 ( 𝑥 ) = ( -8 ) ( 2 ) + 22. What is the y-intercept of the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓 ( 𝑥 ) in the xy-plane?

A. ( 0, 14 )

B. ( 0, 2 )

C. ( 0, 22 )

D. ( 0, -8 )

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 4fbffc0a
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 4fbffc0a

The graph shows the height above ground, in meters, of a ball 𝑥 seconds after the ball was launched upward from a
platform. Which statement is the best interpretation of the marked point 1.0, 4.8 in this context?

A. 1.0 second after being launched, the ball's height above ground is 4.8 meters.

B. 4.8 seconds after being launched, the ball's height above ground is 1.0 meter.

C. The ball was launched from an initial height of 1.0 meter with an initial velocity of 4.8 meters per second.

D. The ball was launched from an initial height of 4.8 meters with an initial velocity of 1.0 meter per second.

ID: 4fbffc0a Answer

Correct Answer: A
Rationale
Choice A is correct. It's given that the graph shows the height above ground, in meters, of a ball 𝑥 seconds after the ball
was launched upward from a platform. In the graph shown, the x-axis represents time, in seconds, and the y-axis
represents the height of the ball above ground, in meters. It follows that for the marked point 1.0, 4.8, 1.00 represents the
time, in seconds, after the ball was launched upward from a platform and 4.80 represents the height of the ball above
ground, in meters. Therefore, the best interpretation of the marked point 1.0, 4.8 is 1.00 second after being launched, the
ball's height above ground is 4.80 meters.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual errors. Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual errors.

Choice D is incorrect and may result from conceptual errors.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 39714777
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 39714777

𝑝𝑥 + 57 = 𝑥2
The given equation relates the value of 𝑥 and its corresponding value of 𝑝𝑥 for the function 𝑝. What is the minimum value
of the function 𝑝?

A. -3,249

B. -57

C. 57

D. 3,249

ID: 39714777 Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
2
Choice B is correct. For a quadratic function defined by an equation of the form 𝑝𝑥 = 𝑎𝑥 - ℎ + 𝑘, where 𝑎, ℎ, and 𝑘 are
constants and 𝑎 > 0, the minimum value of the function is 𝑘. Subtracting 57 from both sides of the given equation yields
2
𝑝𝑥 = 𝑥2 - 57. This function is in the form 𝑝𝑥 = 𝑎𝑥 - ℎ + 𝑘, where 𝑎 = 1, ℎ = 0, and 𝑘 = -57. Therefore, the minimum value
of the function 𝑝 is -57.

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: Medium

Question ID a9084ca4
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: a9084ca4

𝑥
𝑓𝑥 = 9,0000.66
The given function 𝑓 models the number of advertisements a company sent to its clients each year, where 𝑥 represents
the number of years since 1997, and 0 ≤ 𝑥 ≤ 5. If 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥 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 5 years was 1,708.

B. The minimum estimated number of advertisements the company sent to its clients during the 5 years was 9,000.

C. The estimated number of advertisements the company sent to its clients in 1997 was 1,708.

D. The estimated number of advertisements the company sent to its clients in 1997 was 9,000.

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-
𝑥
intercept of the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥 in the xy-plane can be found by substituting 0 for 𝑥 in the equation 𝑦 = 9,0000.66 , 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 9. Each term after the first is 4 times the preceding term. If 𝑤 represents the 𝑛th term of
the sequence, which equation gives 𝑤 in terms of 𝑛?
𝑛
A. 𝑤 = 4(9 )

𝑛-1
B. 𝑤 = 4(9 )

𝑛
C. 𝑤 = 9(4 )

𝑛-1
D. 𝑤 = 9(4 )

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 6abec9a8
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 6abec9a8

What is the 𝑦-intercept of the graph shown?

A. (-1, -9)

B. (0, -5)

C. (0, - 4)

D. (0, 0)

ID: 6abec9a8 Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is correct. The y-intercept of a graph in the xy-plane is the point 𝑥, 𝑦 on the graph where 𝑥 = 0. At 𝑥 = 0, the
corresponding value of 𝑦 is -5. Therefore, the y-intercept of the graph shown is 0, - 5.

Choice A is incorrect and may result from conceptual errors.

Choice C is incorrect. This is the y-intercept of a graph in the xy-plane that intersects the y-axis at 𝑦 = - 4, not 𝑦 = - 5.

Choice D is incorrect. This is the y-intercept of a graph in the xy-plane that intersects the y-axis at 𝑦 = 0, not 𝑦 = - 5.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 52b1700c
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 52b1700c

Time (years) Total amount (dollars)

0 604.00

1 606.42

2 608.84
Rosa opened a savings account at a bank. The table shows the exponential relationship between the time 𝑡, in years,
since Rosa opened the account and the total amount 𝑛, in dollars, in the account. If Rosa made no additional deposits or
withdrawals, which of the following equations best represents the relationship between 𝑡 and 𝑛?

A. 𝑛 = (1 + 604)𝑡

B. 𝑛 = (1 + 0.004)𝑡

C. 𝑛 = 604(1 + 0.004)𝑡

D. 𝑛 = 0.004(1 + 604)𝑡

ID: 52b1700c Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is correct. It’s given that the relationship between 𝑡 and 𝑛 is exponential. The table shows that the value of 𝑛
increases as the value of 𝑡 increases. Therefore, the relationship between 𝑡 and 𝑛 can be represented by an increasing
𝑡
exponential equation of the form 𝑛 = 𝑎1 + 𝑏 , where 𝑎 and 𝑏 are positive constants. The table shows that when 𝑡 = 0,
𝑡 0
𝑛 = 604. Substituting 0 for 𝑡 and 604 for 𝑛 in the equation 𝑛 = 𝑎1 + 𝑏 yields 604 = 𝑎1 + 𝑏 , which is equivalent to
𝑡 𝑡
604 = 𝑎1, or 604 = 𝑎. Substituting 604 for 𝑎 in the equation 𝑛 = 𝑎1 + 𝑏 yields 𝑛 = 6041 + 𝑏 . The table also shows that
𝑡 1
when 𝑡 = 1, 𝑛 = 606.42. Substituting 1 for 𝑡 and 606.42 for 𝑛 in the equation 𝑛 = 6041 + 𝑏 yields 606.42 = 6041 + 𝑏 , or
606.42 = 6041 + 𝑏. Dividing both sides of this equation by 604 yields approximately 1.004 = 1 + 𝑏. Subtracting 1 from
both sides of this equation yields that the value of 𝑏 is approximately 0.004. Substituting 0.004 for 𝑏 in the equation
𝑡 𝑡
𝑛 = 6041 + 𝑏 yields 𝑛 = 6041 + 0.004 . Therefore, of the choices, choice C best represents the relationship between 𝑡
and 𝑛.

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: Medium

Question ID b8f13a3a
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: b8f13a3a

Function 𝑓 is defined by 𝑓𝑥 = - 𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏, where 𝑎 and 𝑏 are constants. In the xy-plane, the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥 - 12 has a y-
75 320
intercept at 0, - . The product of 𝑎 and 𝑏 is . What is the value of 𝑎?
7 7

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

Question Difficulty: Hard

Question ID 1ee962ec
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 1ee962ec

Scientists recorded data about the ocean water levels at a certain location over a period of 6 hours. The graph shown
models the data, where 𝑦 = 0 represents sea level. Which table gives values of 𝑥 and their corresponding values of 𝑦
based on the model?

𝑥 𝑦
A.
0 -12

0 3

3 6

𝑥 𝑦
B.
0 0

3 12

0 -6

𝑥 𝑦
C.
0 0

3 -12
 6 0

𝑥 𝑦
D.
0 0

12 3

-6 0

ID: 1ee962ec Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is correct. Each point 𝑥, 𝑦 on the graph represents an elapsed time 𝑥, in hours, and the corresponding ocean
water level 𝑦, in feet, at a certain location based on the model. The graph shown passes through the points 0, 0, 3, - 12,
and 6, 0. Thus, the table in choice C gives the values of 𝑥 and their corresponding values of 𝑦 based on the model.

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: Easy

Question ID 07bcecac
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 07bcecac

𝑡
𝑃𝑡 = 24.81.036
The function 𝑃 gives the predicted population, in millions, of a certain country for the period from 1984 to 2018, where 𝑡
is the number of years after 1984. According to the model, what is the best interpretation of the statement “𝑃8 is
approximately equal to 32.91”?

A. In 1984, the predicted population of this country was approximately 8 million.

B. In 1984, the predicted population of this country was approximately 32.91 million.

C. 8 years after 1984, the predicted population of this country was approximately 32.91 million.

D. 32.91 years after 1984, the predicted population of this country was approximately 8 million.

ID: 07bcecac Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is correct. The function 𝑃 gives the predicted population, in millions, of a certain country for the period from
1984 to 2018, where 𝑡 is the number of years after 1984. Since the value of 𝑃8 is the value of 𝑃𝑡 when 𝑡 = 8, it follows
that "𝑃8 is approximately equal to 32.91" means that the value of 𝑃𝑡 is approximately equal to 32.91 when 𝑡 = 8.
Therefore, the best interpretation of the statement "𝑃8 is approximately equal to 32.91" is that 8 years after 1984, the
predicted population of this country was approximately 32.91 million.

Choice A is incorrect. In 1984, the predicted population of this country was 24.8 million, not approximately 8 million.

Choice B is incorrect. In 1984, the predicted population of this country was 24.8 million, not approximately 32.91 million.

32.91
Choice D is incorrect. 32.91 years after 1984, the predicted population of this country was 24.81.036 million, or
approximately 79.42 million, not approximately 8 million.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 02add2d2
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 02add2d2

A company has a newsletter. In January 2018, there were 1,300 customers subscribed to the newsletter. For the next 24
months after January 2018, the total number of customers subscribed to the newsletter each month was 7% greater
than the total number subscribed the previous month. Which equation gives the total number of customers, 𝑐, subscribed
to the company's newsletter 𝑚 months after January 2018, where 𝑚 ≤ 24?

A. 𝑐 = 1,300(0.07)𝑚

B. 𝑐 = 1,300(1.07)𝑚

C. 𝑐 = 1,300(1.7)𝑚

D. 𝑐 = 1,300(7)𝑚

ID: 02add2d2 Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is correct. It's given that in January 2018, there were 1,300 customers subscribed to a company's newsletter
and for the next 24 months after January 2018, the total number of customers subscribed to the newsletter each month
was 7% greater than the total number subscribed the previous month. It follows that this situation can be represented by
𝑟 𝑚
the equation 𝑐 = 𝑎1 + 100
, where 𝑐 is the total number of customers subscribed to the company's newsletter 𝑚 months
after January 2018, 𝑎 is the number of customers subscribed to the newsletter in January 2018, and the total number of
customers subscribed to the newsletter each month was 𝑟% greater than the total number subscribed the previous
7 𝑚
month. Substituting 1,300 for 𝑎 and 7 for 𝑟 in this equation yields 𝑐 = 1,3001 + 100 , or 𝑐 = 1,3001.07𝑚 .

Choice A is incorrect. This equation represents a situation where the total number of customers subscribed each month
was 93% less, not 7% greater, than the total number subscribed the previous month.

Choice C is incorrect. This equation represents a situation where the total number of customers subscribed each month
was 70%, not 7%, greater than the total number subscribed the previous month.

Choice D is incorrect. This equation represents a situation where the total number of customers subscribed each month
was 600%, not 7%, greater than the total number subscribed the previous month.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 788bfd56
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 788bfd56

The function 𝑓 is defined by 𝑓 ( 𝑥 ) = 4 + √𝑥 . What is the value of 𝑓144?

A. 0

B. 16

C. 40

D. 76

ID: 788bfd56 Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is correct. The value of 𝑓144 is the value of 𝑓𝑥 when 𝑥 = 144. It's given that the function 𝑓 is defined by
𝑓𝑥 = 4 + √𝑥 . Substituting 144 for 𝑥 in this equation yields 𝑓144 = 4 + √144 . Since the positive square root of 144 is 12, it
follows that this equation can be rewritten as 𝑓144 = 4 + 12, or 𝑓144 = 16. Therefore, the value of 𝑓144 is 16.

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

Choice C is incorrect. This is the value of 𝑓1,296, not 𝑓144. Choice D is incorrect. This is the value of 𝑓5,184, not 𝑓144.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 40491607
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 40491607

𝑓(𝑥) = (𝑥 - 1) (𝑥 + 3) (𝑥 - 2)
In the xy-plane, when the graph of the function 𝑓, where 𝑦 = 𝑓 ( 𝑥 ) , is shifted up 6 units, the resulting graph is defined by
the function 𝑔. If the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑔 ( 𝑥 ) crosses through the point 4, 𝑏, where 𝑏 is a constant, what is the value of 𝑏?

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 f89af023
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: f89af023

A rectangular volleyball court has an area of 162 square meters. If the length of
the court is twice the width, what is the width of the court, in meters?

A. 9

B. 18

C. 27

D. 54

ID: f89af023 Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is correct. It’s given that the volleyball court is rectangular and has an area of 162 square meters. The formula
for the area of a rectangle is , where A is the area, is the length, and w is the width of the rectangle. It’s also
given that the length of the volleyball court is twice the width, thus . Substituting the given value into the formula
for the area of a rectangle and using the relationship between length and width for this rectangle yields .

This equation can be rewritten as . Dividing both sides of this equation by 2 yields . Taking the
square root of both sides of this equation yields . Since the width of a rectangle is a positive number, the width of
the volleyball court is 9 meters.

Choice B is incorrect because this is the length of the rectangle. Choice C is incorrect because this is the result of using
162 as the perimeter rather than the area. Choice D is incorrect because this is the result of calculating w in the equation
instead of .

Question Difficulty: Medium

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 51.84 meters above the
ground at 1.8 seconds and hits the ground at 3.6 seconds. Which equation represents the height above ground ℎ, in
meters, of the softball 𝑡 seconds after it is launched?

A. ℎ = -𝑡2 + 3.6

B. ℎ = -𝑡2 + 51.84

C. ℎ = -16(𝑡 - 1.8)2 - 3.6

D. ℎ = -16(𝑡 - 1.8)2 + 51.84

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
ℎ = - 𝑎𝑡 - 1.82 + 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
both sides of this equation by 3.24 yields 𝑎 = 16. Substituting 16 for 𝑎 in the equation ℎ = - 𝑎𝑡 - 1.82 + 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 𝑓 is defined by 𝑓 ( 𝑥 ) = 𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏, where 𝑎 and 𝑏 are constants. In the 𝑥𝑦-plane, the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥 has an 𝑥-
intercept at 2, 0 and a 𝑦-intercept at 0, -323. What is the value of 𝑏?

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 e53add44
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: e53add44

The function S above models the annual salary, in dollars, of an employee n

years after starting a job, where a is a constant. If the employee’s salary
increases by 4% each year, what is the value of a ?

A. 0.04

B. 0.4

C. 1.04

D. 1.4

ID: e53add44 Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is correct. A model for a quantity S that increases by a certain percentage per time period n is an exponential

function in the form , where I is the initial value at time for r% annual increase. It’s given that
the annual increase in an employee’s salary is 4%, so . The initial value can be found by substituting 0 for n in the
given function, which yields . Therefore, . Substituting these values for r and I into the form of

the exponential function yields , or .

Therefore, the value of a in the given function is 1.04.

Choices A, B, and D are incorrect and may result from incorrectly representing the annual increase in the exponential
function.

Question Difficulty: Medium

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 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 926c246b
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 926c246b

The equation above estimates the global data traffic D, in terabytes, for the year
that is t years after 2010. What is the best interpretation of the number 5,640 in
this context?

A. The estimated amount of increase of data traffic, in terabytes, each year

B. The estimated percent increase in the data traffic, in terabytes, each year

C. The estimated data traffic, in terabytes, for the year that is t years after 2010

D. The estimated data traffic, in terabytes, in 2010

ID: 926c246b Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. Since t represents the number of years after 2010, the estimated data traffic, in terabytes, in 2010
can be calculated using the given equation when . Substituting 0 for t in the given equation yields ,
or . Thus, 5,640 represents the estimated data traffic, in terabytes, in 2010.

Choice A is incorrect. Since the equation is exponential, the amount of increase of data traffic each year isn’t constant.
Choice B is incorrect. According to the equation, the percent increase in data traffic each year is 90%. Choice C is
incorrect. The estimated data traffic, in terabytes, for the year that is t years after 2010 is represented by D, not the
number 5,640.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 4dd4efcf
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 4dd4efcf

𝑓𝑥 = 𝑎𝑥2 + 4𝑥 + 𝑐
In the given quadratic function, 𝑎 and 𝑐 are constants. The graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥 in the xy-plane is a parabola that opens
upward and has a vertex at the point ℎ, 𝑘, where ℎ and 𝑘 are constants. If 𝑘 < 0 and 𝑓-9 = 𝑓3, which of the following must
be true?
𝑐<0𝑎≥1

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,
ℎ = - 3. The equation defining 𝑓 can also be written in vertex form, 𝑓𝑥 = 𝑎𝑥 - ℎ2 + 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 = , or 𝑎 = . Since < 1, it's not true that 𝑎 ≥ 1. Therefore, statement II isn't true.
6 3 3
2 2
Substituting 3
for 𝑎 in the equation 9𝑎 + 𝑘 = 𝑐 yields 9 3 + 𝑘 = 𝑐, or 6 + 𝑘 = 𝑐. Subtracting 6 from both sides of this
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 cc2601cb
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: cc2601cb

The x-intercept of the graph shown is 𝑥, 0. What is the value of 𝑥?

ID: cc2601cb Answer

Correct Answer: 7

Rationale
The correct answer is 7. It’s given that the x-intercept of the graph shown is 𝑥, 0. The graph passes through the point 7, 0.
Therefore, the value of 𝑥 is 7.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 252a3b3a
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 252a3b3a

Which of the following could be the equation of the graph shown in the xy-plane?
1
A. 𝑦 = - 𝑥(𝑥 - 4)𝑥 + 5
10

1 2
B. 𝑦 = - 10 𝑥(𝑥 - 4)𝑥 + 5
1
C. 𝑦 = - 10 𝑥(𝑥 - 5)𝑥 + 4
1
D. 𝑦 = - 𝑥(𝑥 - 5)2𝑥 + 4
10

ID: 252a3b3a Answer

Correct Answer: B
Rationale
1 𝑛
Choice B is correct. Each of the given choices is an equation of the form 𝑦 = - 10 𝑥𝑥 - 𝑎𝑚 𝑥 + 𝑏 , where 𝑎, 𝑏, 𝑚, and 𝑛 are
positive constants. In the xy-plane, the graph of an equation of this form has x-intercepts at 𝑥 = 0, 𝑥 = 𝑎, and 𝑥 = -𝑏. The
graph shown has x-intercepts at 𝑥 = 0, 𝑥 = 4, and 𝑥 = - 5. Therefore, 𝑎 = 4 and 𝑏 = 5. Of the given choices, only choices
1 𝑛
A and B have 𝑎 = 4 and 𝑏 = 5. For an equation in the form 𝑦 = - 𝑥𝑥 - 𝑎𝑚 𝑥 + 𝑏 , if all values of 𝑥 that are less than -𝑏 or
10
greater than 𝑎 correspond to negative y-values, then the sum of all the exponents of the factors on the right-hand side of
the equation is even. In the graph shown, all values of 𝑥 less than -5 or greater than 4 correspond to negative y-values.
1 𝑚 𝑛
Therefore, the sum of all the exponents of the factors on the right-hand side of the equation 𝑦 = - 10 𝑥𝑥 - 4 𝑥 + 5 must
be even. For choice A, the sum of these exponents is 1 + 1 + 1, or 3, which is odd. For choice B, the sum of these
1 2
exponents is 1 + 1 + 2, or 4, which is even. Therefore, 𝑦 = - 𝑥𝑥 - 4𝑥 + 5 could be the equation of the graph shown.
10

Choice A is incorrect. For the graph of this equation, all values of 𝑥 less than -5 correspond to positive, not negative, y-
values.

Choice C is incorrect. The graph of this equation has x-intercepts at 𝑥 = - 4, 𝑥 = 0, and 𝑥 = 5, rather than x-intercepts at
𝑥 = - 5, 𝑥 = 0, and 𝑥 = 4.

Choice D is incorrect. The graph of this equation has x-intercepts at 𝑥 = - 4, 𝑥 = 0, and 𝑥 = 5, rather than x-intercepts at
𝑥 = - 5, 𝑥 = 0, and 𝑥 = 4.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 2992ac30
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 2992ac30
6
𝑃𝑡 = 2601.04 4 𝑡
The function 𝑃 models the population, in thousands, of a certain city 𝑡 years after 2003. According to the model, the
population is predicted to increase by 4% every 𝑛 months. What is the value of 𝑛?

A. 8

B. 12

C. 18

D. 72

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, 𝑡. If the exponent is equal to 0, then 𝑡 = 0. Multiplying both sides of this equation by yields 𝑡 = 0. If the
4 4 6
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

𝑓𝑥 = 4𝑥2 + 64𝑥 + 262 The function 𝑔 is defined by 𝑔𝑥 = 𝑓𝑥 + 5. For what value of 𝑥 does 𝑔𝑥 reach its minimum?

A. -13

B. -8

C. -5

D. -3

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,
𝑔𝑥 = 4𝑥2 + 104𝑥 + 682. For a quadratic function defined by an equation of the form 𝑔𝑥 = 𝑎𝑥 - ℎ2 + 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
𝑔𝑥 = 4𝑥 + 132 - 4169 + 682, which is equivalent to 𝑔𝑥 = 4𝑥 + 132 + 6. This equation is in the form 𝑔𝑥 = 𝑎𝑥 - ℎ2 + 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 cc6ccd71
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: cc6ccd71

The graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥 is shown, where the function 𝑓 is defined by 𝑓𝑥 = 𝑎𝑥3 + 𝑏𝑥2 + 𝑐𝑥 + 𝑑 and 𝑎, 𝑏, 𝑐, and 𝑑 are constants.
For how many values of 𝑥 does 𝑓𝑥 = 0?

A. One

B. Two

C. Three

D. Four

ID: cc6ccd71 Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is correct. If a value of 𝑥 satisfies 𝑓 ( 𝑥 ) = 0, the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥 will contain a point 𝑥, 0 and thus touch the x-
axis. Since there are 3 points at which this graph touches the x-axis, there are 3 values of 𝑥 for which 𝑓 ( 𝑥 ) = 0.

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: Medium
Question ID b39d74a0
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: b39d74a0
x y

0 0

1 1

2 8

3 27

The table shown includes some values of x and their corresponding values of y.
Which of the following graphs in the xy-plane could represent the relationship
between x and y ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: b39d74a0 Answer

Correct Answer: B
Rationale

Choice B is correct. Each pair of values shown in the table gives the ordered pair of coordinates for a point that lies on
the graph that represents the relationship between x and y in the xy-plane: , , , and . Only the graph
in choice B passes through the points listed in the table that are visible in the given choices.

Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. None of these graphs passes through the point .

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 09d21d79
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 09d21d79

The graph of 𝑦 = 2𝑥2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐 is shown, where 𝑏 and 𝑐 are constants. What is the value of 𝑏𝑐?

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
value of 𝑦 is -6. Substituting 0 for 𝑥 and -6 for 𝑦 in the given equation yields -6 = 202 + 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
2
𝑦 = 2𝑥2 + 𝑏𝑥 - 6 yields -8 = 2-1 + 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
form. It follows that 𝑎 = 2. Substituting 2 for 𝑎, -1 for ℎ, and -8 for 𝑘 in this equation yields 𝑦 = 2𝑥 - -12 + -8, or
𝑦 = 2𝑥 + 12 - 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 95d1c344
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 95d1c344

The graph models the number of active projects a company was working on 𝑥 months after the end of November 2012,
where 0 ≤ 𝑥 ≤ 6. According to the model, what is the predicted number of active projects the company was working on
at the end of November 2012?

A. 0

B. 5

C. 8

D. 9

ID: 95d1c344 Answer

Correct Answer: B
Rationale

Choice B is correct. It's given that the graph models the number of active projects a company was working on 𝑥 months
after the end of November 2012. Therefore, the value of 𝑥 that corresponds to the end of November 2012 is 0. The point
at which 𝑥 = 0 is the y-intercept of the graph. It follows that the y-intercept of the graph shown is the point 0, 5. Therefore,
according to the model, the predicted number of active projects the company was working on at the end of November
2012 is 5.

Choice A is incorrect. This is the value of 𝑥 that corresponds to the end of November 2012, not the predicted number of
active projects the company was working on at the end of November 2012.

Choice C is incorrect. This is the predicted number of active projects the company was working on 2 months after the
end of November 2012.

Choice D is incorrect. This is the predicted number of active projects the company was working on 4 months after the
end of November 2012.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID d135f4bf
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: d135f4bf

The function 𝑓 is defined by 𝑓𝑥 = 𝑥 - 6𝑥 - 2𝑥 + 6. In the xy-plane, the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑔𝑥 is the result of translating the graph
of 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥 up 4 units. What is the value of 𝑔0?

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 d4950429
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: d4950429

A rectangle has a length of 𝑥 units and a width of 𝑥 - 15 units. If the rectangle has an area of 76 square units, what is the
value of 𝑥?

A. 4

B. 19

C. 23

D. 76

ID: d4950429 Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is correct. The area of a rectangle is equal to its length multiplied by its width. Multiplying the given length, 𝑥
units, by the given width, 𝑥 - 15 units, yields 𝑥𝑥 - 15 square units. If the rectangle has an area of 76 square units, it follows
that 𝑥𝑥 - 15 = 76, or 𝑥2 - 15𝑥 = 76. Subtracting 76 from both sides of this equation yields 𝑥2 - 15𝑥 - 76 = 0. Factoring the
left-hand side of this equation yields 𝑥 - 19𝑥 + 4 = 0. Applying the zero product property to this equation yields two
solutions: 𝑥 = 19 and 𝑥 = - 4. Since 𝑥 is the rectangle’s length, in units, which must be positive, the value of 𝑥 is 19.

Choice A is incorrect. This is the width, in units, of the rectangle, not the value of 𝑥.

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

Choice D is incorrect. This is the area, in square units, of the rectangle, not the value of 𝑥.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 752055d1
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 752055d1

A scientist initially measures 12,000 bacteria in a growth medium. 4 hours later, the scientist measures 24,000 bacteria.
𝑟𝑡
Assuming exponential growth, the formula 𝑃 = 𝐶2 gives the number of bacteria in the growth medium, where 𝑟 and 𝐶
are constants and 𝑃 is the number of bacteria 𝑡 hours after the initial measurement. What is the value of 𝑟?
1
A.
12,000

1
B.
4

C. 4

D. 12,000

ID: 752055d1 Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
𝑟𝑡
Choice B is correct. It’s given that the formula 𝑃 = 𝐶2 gives the number of bacteria in a growth medium, where 𝑟 and 𝐶
are constants and 𝑃 is the number of bacteria 𝑡 hours after the initial measurement. It’s also given that a scientist initially
measures 12,000 bacteria in the growth medium. Since the initial measurement is 0 hours after the initial measurement,
𝑟0
it follows that when 𝑡 = 0, 𝑃 = 12,000. Substituting 0 for 𝑡 and 12,000 for 𝑃 in the given equation yields 12,000 = 𝐶2 , or
0
12,000 = 𝐶2 , which is equivalent to 12,000 = 𝐶. It’s given that 4 hours later, the scientist measures 24,000 bacteria, or
when 𝑡 = 4, 𝑃 = 24,000. Substituting 4 for 𝑡, 24,000 for 𝑃, and 12,000 for 𝐶 in the given equation yields
24,000 = 12,00024𝑟 . Dividing each side of this equation by 12,000 yields 2 = 24𝑟 , or 21 = 24𝑟 , which is equivalent to 1 = 4𝑟
1 1
. Dividing both sides of this equation by 4 yields = 𝑟. Therefore, the value of 𝑟 is .
4 4

Choice A is incorrect. This is the value of the reciprocal of 𝐶. Choice C is incorrect. This is the value of the reciprocal of 𝑟.

Choice D is incorrect. This is the value of 𝐶.

Question Difficulty: Medium

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 7 meters above the ground
and reached a maximum height of 51.1 meters above the ground 3 seconds after the launch. How many seconds after
the launch does the model estimate that the projectile will return to a height of 7 meters?

A. 3

B. 6

C. 7

D. 9

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
the form 𝑓𝑥 = 𝑎𝑥 - ℎ2 + 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
7 for 𝑓𝑥 in 𝑓𝑥 = - 4.9𝑥 - 32 + 51.1 yields 7 = - 4.9𝑥 - 32 + 51.1. Subtracting 51.1 from both sides of this equation yields
-44.1 = - 4.9𝑥 - 32 . Dividing both sides of this equation by -4.9 yields 9 = 𝑥 - 32 . 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

𝑦 = 𝑥2 - 14𝑥 + 22
The given equation relates the variables 𝑥 and 𝑦. For what value of 𝑥 does the value of 𝑦 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 = - . Since the given equation is of the form 𝑦 = 𝑎𝑥2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐, it follows that 𝑎 = 1,
2𝑎
-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 837e9da7
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 837e9da7

1
The function 𝑓 is defined by 𝑓𝑥 = 6𝑥
. What is the value of 𝑓𝑥 when 𝑥 = 3?
1
A. 3

1
B. 6

1
C.
9

1
D.
18

ID: 837e9da7 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
1 1 1
Choice D is correct. It's given that 𝑓𝑥 = . Substituting 3 for 𝑥 in this equation yields 𝑓3 = , or 𝑓3 = . Therefore, when
6𝑥 63 18
1
𝑥 = 3, the value of 𝑓𝑥 is .
18

Choice A is incorrect. This is the value of 𝑓𝑥 when 𝑥 = 0.5. Choice B is incorrect. This is the value of 𝑓𝑥 when 𝑥 = 1.

Choice C is incorrect. This is the value of 𝑓𝑥 when 𝑥 = 1.5.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID a45ffacb
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: a45ffacb

Function 𝑓 is defined by 𝑓𝑥 = - 𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏, where 𝑎 and 𝑏 are constants. In the xy-plane, the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥 - 15 has a y-
99 65
intercept at 0, - . The product of 𝑎 and 𝑏 is . What is the value of 𝑎?
7 7

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 = - + 𝑏 - 15 yields - = - 𝑎0 + 𝑏 - 15, which is equivalent to - = - 1 + 𝑏 - 15, or - = 𝑏 - 16. Adding 16
𝑎𝑥
7 7 7
to
13 65 65 13
both sides of this equation yields 7 = 𝑏. It’s given that the product of 𝑎 and 𝑏 is 7 , or 𝑎𝑏 = 7 . Substituting 7 for 𝑏 in
13 65 13
this equation yields 𝑎 7 = 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 𝑔 is defined by 𝑔𝑥 = 𝑥 + 14𝑡 - 𝑥, where 𝑡 is a constant. In the xy-plane, the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑔𝑥 passes through
the point 24, 0. What is the value of 𝑔0?

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 341ba5db
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 341ba5db

𝑔𝑥 = 𝑥2 + 55 What is the minimum value of the given function?

A. 0

B. 55

C. 110

D. 3,025

ID: 341ba5db Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
2
Choice B is correct. For a quadratic function defined by an equation of the form 𝑔𝑥 = 𝑎𝑥 - ℎ + 𝑘, where 𝑎, ℎ, and 𝑘 are
constants and 𝑎 > 0, the minimum value of the function is 𝑘. In the given function, 𝑎 = 1, ℎ = 0, and 𝑘 = 55. Therefore,
the minimum value of the given function is 55.

Choice A is incorrect. This is the value of 𝑥 for which the given function reaches its minimum value, not the minimum
value of the function.

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: Medium

Question ID 18e35375
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 18e35375

𝑓𝑥 = 𝑥 - 14𝑥 + 19 The function 𝑓 is defined by the given equation. For what value of 𝑥 does 𝑓𝑥 reach its minimum?

A. -266

B. -19

33
C. -
2

5
D. -
2

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 - 2𝑎 . For the equation
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
𝑥1 + 𝑥2 𝑦1 + 𝑦2 14 + -19 0 + 0 5
, is , . 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 15c364bf
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 15c364bf
𝑡
A sample of a certain isotope takes 29 years to decay to half its original mass. The function 𝑠𝑡 = 184 ( 0.5 ) 29 gives the
approximate mass of this isotope, in grams, that remains 𝑡 years after a 184-gram sample starts to decay. Which
statement is the best interpretation of 𝑠87 = 23 in this context?

A. Approximately 23 grams of the sample remains 87 years after the sample starts to decay.

B. The mass of the sample has decreased by approximately 23 grams 87 years after the sample starts to decay.

C. The mass of the sample has decreased by approximately 87 grams 23 years after the sample starts to decay.

D. Approximately 87 grams of the sample remains 23 years after the sample starts to decay.

ID: 15c364bf Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale

Choice A is correct. In the given function, 𝑠𝑡 represents the approximate mass, in grams, of the sample that remains 𝑡
years after the sample starts to decay. It follows that the best interpretation of 𝑠87 = 23 is that approximately 23 grams
of the sample remains 87 years after the sample starts to decay.

Choice B is incorrect. The mass of the sample has decreased by approximately 184 - 23, or 161, grams, not 23 grams, 87
years after the sample starts to decay.

Choice C is incorrect. The mass of the sample has decreased by approximately 78 grams, not 87 grams, 23 years after
the sample starts to decay.

Choice D is incorrect. This would be the best interpretation of 𝑠23 = 87, not 𝑠87 = 23.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID ce508fb0
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: ce508fb0

-𝑤
The functions 𝑓 and 𝑔 are defined by the given equations. 𝑓𝑥 = 3 + | - 2𝑥 - 𝑥2 | 𝑔𝑤 = | | -𝑤+5
𝑤-1
If 𝑓 ( - 4 ) = 𝑐, where 𝑐 is a constant, what is the value of 𝑔𝑐?

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 b5c43226
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: b5c43226

What is the y-intercept of the graph shown?

A. (0, 0)

B. (0, 2)

C. (2, 0)

D. (2, 2)

ID: b5c43226 Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is correct. The y-intercept of a graph in the xy-plane is the point at which the graph crosses the y-axis. The
graph shown crosses the y-axis at the point 0, 2. Therefore, the y-intercept of the graph shown is 0, 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: Easy

Question ID 2fec8bf4
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 2fec8bf4

𝑡
𝑃𝑡 = 1,8001.02
The function 𝑃 gives the estimated number of marine mammals in a certain area, where 𝑡 is the number of years since a
study began. What is the best interpretation of 𝑃0 = 1,800 in this context?

A. The estimated number of marine mammals in the area was 102 when the study began.

B. The estimated number of marine mammals in the area was 1,800 when the study began.

C. The estimated number of marine mammals in the area increased by 102 each year during the study.

D. The estimated number of marine mammals in the area increased by 1,800 each year during the study.

ID: 2fec8bf4 Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is correct. The function 𝑃 gives the estimated number of marine mammals in a certain area, where 𝑡 is the
number of years since a study began. Since the value of 𝑃0 is the value of 𝑃𝑡 when 𝑡 = 0, it follows that 𝑃0 = 1,800
means that the value of 𝑃𝑡 is 1,800 when 𝑡 = 0. Since 𝑡 is the number of years since the study began, it follows that 𝑡 = 0
is 0 years since the study began, or when the study began. Therefore, the best interpretation of 𝑃0 = 1,800 in this context
is the estimated number of marine mammals in the area was 1,800 when the study began.

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: Easy

Question ID e166aca6
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: e166aca6

What is the x-intercept of the graph shown?

A. (-5, 0)

B. (5, 0)

C. (-4, 0)

D. (4, 0)

ID: e166aca6 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. The x-intercept of the graph shown is the point 𝑥, 𝑦 on the graph where 𝑦 = 0. At 𝑦 = 0, the
corresponding value of 𝑥 is 4. Therefore, the x-intercept of the graph shown is 4, 0.

Choice A is incorrect. This is the x-intercept of a graph in the xy-plane that intersects the x-axis at 𝑥 = - 5, not 𝑥 = 4.

Choice B is incorrect. This is the x-intercept of a graph in the xy-plane that intersects the x-axis at 𝑥 = 5, not 𝑥 = 4.

Choice C is incorrect. This is the x-intercept of a graph in the xy-plane that intersects the x-axis at 𝑥 = - 4, not 𝑥 = 4.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID f28944ff
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: f28944ff

𝑥
𝑞 ( 𝑥 ) = 32 ( 2 ) Which table gives three values of 𝑥 and their corresponding values of 𝑞 ( 𝑥 ) for function 𝑞?

𝑥 -1 0 1
A.
𝑞(𝑥) -64 0 64

𝑥 -1 0 1
B.
1
𝑞(𝑥) 2 64
16

𝑥 -1 0 1
C.
1
𝑞(𝑥) 32 64
16

𝑥 -1 0 1
D.
𝑞(𝑥) 16 32 64

ID: f28944ff Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
1
Choice D is correct. Substituting -1 for 𝑥 in the given function yields 𝑞-1 = 322-1 , which is equivalent to 𝑞-1 = 32 2 , or
𝑞-1 = 16. Therefore, when 𝑥 = - 1, the corresponding value of 𝑞𝑥 for function 𝑞 is 16. Substituting 0 for 𝑥 in the given
function yields 𝑞0 = 3220 , which is equivalent to 𝑞0 = 321, or 𝑞0 = 32. Therefore, when 𝑥 = 0, the corresponding value of
𝑞𝑥 for function 𝑞 is 32. Substituting 1 for 𝑥 in the given function yields 𝑞1 = 3221 , which is equivalent to 𝑞1 = 322, or
𝑞1 = 64. Therefore, when 𝑥 = 1, the corresponding value of 𝑞𝑥 for function 𝑞 is 64. Of the choices given, only the table in
choice D gives these three values of 𝑥 and their corresponding values of 𝑞𝑥 for function 𝑞.

Choice A is incorrect. This table gives three values of 𝑥 and their corresponding values of 𝑞𝑥 for the function 𝑞𝑥 = 322𝑥.

Choice B is incorrect. This table gives three values of 𝑥 and their corresponding values of 𝑞𝑥 for the function 𝑞𝑥 = 232𝑥 .

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

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 50e40f08
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 50e40f08

𝑓𝑥 = 𝑥 + 6𝑥 - 4
If the given function 𝑓 is graphed in the xy-plane, where 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥, what is the x-coordinate of an x-intercept of the graph?

ID: 50e40f08 Answer

Correct Answer: -6, 4

Rationale
The correct answer is either -6 or 4. The x-intercepts of a graph in the xy-plane are the points where 𝑦 = 0. Thus, for an x-
intercept of the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥, 0 = 𝑓𝑥. Substituting 0 for 𝑓𝑥 in the equation 𝑓𝑥 = 𝑥 + 6𝑥 - 4 yields 0 = 𝑥 + 6𝑥 - 4. By the
zero product property, 𝑥 + 6 = 0 and 𝑥 - 4 = 0. Subtracting 6 from both sides of the equation 𝑥 + 6 = 0 yields 𝑥 = - 6.
Adding 4 to both sides of the equation 𝑥 - 4 = 0 yields 𝑥 = 4. Therefore, the x-coordinates of the x-intercepts of the graph
of 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥 are -6 and 4. Note that -6 and 4 are examples of ways to enter a correct answer.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID c4259674
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: c4259674

The function 𝑓 is defined by 𝑓𝑥 = 4𝑥-1 . What is the value of 𝑓21?

A. -84

1
B.
84

4
C.
21

21
D.
4

ID: c4259674 Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is correct. It’s given that function 𝑓 is defined by the equation 𝑓𝑥 = 4𝑥-1 . The value of 𝑓21 is the value of 𝑓𝑥
1 4
when 𝑥 = 21. Substituting 21 for 𝑥 in the given equation yields 𝑓21 = 421-1 , which is equivalent to 𝑓21 = 4 , or 𝑓21 =
21 21
.

Choice A is incorrect. This is the value of 𝑓21 when 𝑓𝑥 = - 4𝑥, rather than 𝑓𝑥 = 4𝑥-1 .

Choice B is incorrect. This is the value of 𝑓21 when 𝑓𝑥 = 4𝑥-1 , rather than 𝑓𝑥 = 4𝑥-1 .

Choice D is incorrect. This is the value of 𝑓21 when 𝑓𝑥 = 4-1 𝑥, rather than 𝑓𝑥 = 4𝑥-1 .

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID be0c419e
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: be0c419e

𝑥
Immanuel purchased a certain rare coin on January 1. The function 𝑓 ( 𝑥 ) = 651.03 , where 0 ≤ 𝑥 ≤ 10, gives the
predicted value, in dollars, of the rare coin 𝑥 years after Immanuel purchased it. What is the best interpretation of the
statement “𝑓8 is approximately equal to 82” in this context?

When the rare coin's predicted value is approximately 82 dollars, it is 8% greater than the predicted value, in dollars,
A. on January 1 of the previous year.

When the rare coin’s predicted value is approximately 82 dollars, it is 8 times the predicted value, in dollars, on
B. January 1 of the previous year.

From the day Immanuel purchased the rare coin to 8 years after Immanuel purchased the coin, its predicted value
C. increased by a total of approximately 82 dollars.

D. 8 years after Immanuel purchased the rare coin, its predicted value is approximately 82 dollars.

ID: be0c419e Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
𝑥
Choice D is correct. It’s given that the function 𝑓𝑥 = 651.03 gives the predicted value, in dollars, of a certain rare coin 𝑥
years after Immanuel purchased it. It follows that 𝑓𝑥 represents the predicted value, in dollars, of the coin 𝑥 years after
Immanuel purchased it. Since the value of 𝑓8 is the value of 𝑓𝑥 when 𝑥 = 8, it follows that “𝑓8 is approximately equal to
82” means that 𝑓𝑥 is approximately equal to 82 when 𝑥 = 8. Therefore, the best interpretation of the statement “𝑓8 is
approximately equal to 82” in this context is 8 years after Immanuel purchased the rare coin, its predicted value is
approximately 82 dollars.

Choice A is incorrect and may result from conceptual errors. Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual errors.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual errors.

Question Difficulty: Medium

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 2015 to 2020, the number of squirrels in a population was 150%
more than the number of squirrels in the population at the end of the previous year. The model estimates that at the end
of 2016, there were 180 squirrels in the population. Which of the following equations represents this model, where 𝑛 is
the estimated number of squirrels in the population 𝑡 years after the end of 2015 and 𝑡 ≤ 5?

A. 𝑛 = 72(1.5)𝑡

B. 𝑛 = 72(2.5)𝑡

C. 𝑛 = 180(1.5)𝑡

D. 𝑛 = 180(2.5)𝑡

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 2f51abc2
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 2f51abc2

𝑓𝑥 = 59 - 2𝑥 The function 𝑓 is defined by the given equation. For which of the following values of 𝑘 does 𝑓𝑘 = 3𝑘?
59
A.
5

59
B.
2

177
C. 5

D. 59

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 = . To check 5
59 59 59 59
whether is the value of 𝑘, substituting for 𝑘 in the equation 3𝑘 = 59 - 2𝑘 yields 3 = 59 - 2 , which is equivalent to
5 5 5 5
177 177 177 177 59
5
=
5
, or 5 =
5
, which is a true statement. Therefore, the value of 𝑘 for which 𝑓𝑘 = 3𝑘 is 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 a31417d1
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: a31417d1

From 2005 through 2014, the number of music CDs sold in the United States
declined each year by approximately 15% of the number sold the preceding year.
In 2005, approximately 600 million CDs were sold in the United States. Of the
following, which best models C, the number of millions of CDs sold in the United
States, t years after 2005?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: a31417d1 Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is correct. A model for a quantity C that decreases by a certain percentage per time period t is an exponential

equation in the form , where I is the initial value at time for r% annual decline. It’s given that C is
the number of millions of CDs sold in the United States and that t is the number of years after 2005. It’s also given that
600 million CDs were sold at time , so . This number declines by 15% per year, so . Substituting these

values into the equation produces , or .

Choice A is incorrect and may result from errors made when representing the percent decline. Choices C and D are
incorrect. These equations model exponential increases in CD sales, not exponential decreases.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 197bed38
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 197bed38

An object was launched upward from a platform. The graph shown models the height above ground, 𝑦, in meters, of the
object 𝑥 seconds after it was launched. For which of the following intervals of time was the height of the object
increasing for the entire interval?

A. From 𝑥 = 0 to 𝑥 = 2

B. From 𝑥 = 0 to 𝑥 = 4

C. From 𝑥 = 2 to 𝑥 = 3

D. From 𝑥 = 3 to 𝑥 = 4

ID: 197bed38 Answer

Correct Answer: A
Rationale
Choice A is correct. It's given that the variable 𝑦 represents the height, in meters, of the object above the ground. The
graph shows that the height of the object was increasing from 𝑥 = 0 to 𝑥 = 2, and decreasing from 𝑥 = 2 to 𝑥 = 4.
Therefore, the height of the object was increasing for the entire interval of time from 𝑥 = 0 to 𝑥 = 2.

Choice B is incorrect. The height of the object wasn't increasing for this entire interval of time, as it was decreasing from
𝑥 = 2 to 𝑥 = 4.

Choice C is incorrect. The height of the object was decreasing, not increasing, for this entire interval of time.

Choice D is incorrect. The height of the object was decreasing, not increasing, for this entire interval of time.

Question Difficulty: Medium

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 ad376f1a
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: ad376f1a

The graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥 is shown in the xy-plane. What is the value of 𝑓0?

A. -3

B. 0
3
C.
5

D. 3

ID: ad376f1a Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. Because the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥 is shown, the value of 𝑓0 is the value of 𝑦 on the graph that corresponds
with 𝑥 = 0. When 𝑥 = 0, the corresponding value of 𝑦 is 3. Therefore, the value of 𝑓0 is 3.

Choice A is incorrect and may result from conceptual errors. Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual errors.

Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual errors.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID bd4d0e0c
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: bd4d0e0c

The function 𝑓 is defined by 𝑓𝑥 = 10𝑥2 - 32𝑥 - 152. What is the value of 𝑓0?

A. -152

B. -32

C. 0

D. 10

ID: bd4d0e0c Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is correct. The value of 𝑓0 is the value of 𝑓𝑥 when 𝑥 = 0. The function 𝑓 is defined by 𝑓𝑥 = 10𝑥2 - 32𝑥 - 152.
2
Substituting 0 for 𝑥 in this equation yields 𝑓0 = 100 - 320 - 152. This equation can be rewritten as 𝑓0 = 100 - 0 - 152, or
𝑓0 = - 152. Therefore, the value of 𝑓0 is -152.

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: Easy

Question ID db888cd6
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: db888cd6

The graph gives the estimated number of catalogs 𝑦, in thousands, a company sent to its customers at the end of each
year, where 𝑥 represents the number of years since the end of 1992, where 0 ≤ 𝑥 ≤ 10. Which statement is the best
interpretation of the y-intercept in this context?

A. The estimated total number of catalogs the company sent to its customers during the first 10 years was 9,000.

The estimated total number of catalogs the company sent to its customers from the end of 1992 to the end of 2002
B. was 90.

C. The estimated number of catalogs the company sent to its customers at the end of 1992 was 9.

D. The estimated number of catalogs the company sent to its customers at the end of 1992 was 9,000.

ID: db888cd6 Answer

Correct Answer: D
Rationale

Choice D is correct. The y-intercept of the graph is the point at which the graph crosses the y-axis, or the point for which
the value of 𝑥 is 0. Therefore, the y-intercept of the given graph is the point 0, 9. It's given that 𝑥 represents the number of
years since the end of 1992. Therefore, 𝑥 = 0 represents 0 years since the end of 1992, which is the same as the end of
1992. It's also given that 𝑦 represents the estimated number of catalogs, in thousands, that the company sent to its
customers at the end of the year. Therefore, 𝑦 = 9 represents 9,000 catalogs. It follows that the y-intercept 0, 9 means
that the estimated number of catalogs the company sent to its customers at the end of 1992 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: Medium

Question ID 6ecdbcb4
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 6ecdbcb4

𝑓 ( 𝑥 ) = ( 𝑥 + 6 ) ( 𝑥 + 5 ) ( 𝑥 - 4 ) The function 𝑓 is given. Which table of values represents 𝑦 = 𝑓 ( 𝑥 ) - 3?

𝑥 𝑦
A.
-6 -9

-5 -8

4 1

𝑥 𝑦
B.
-6 -3

-5 -3

4 -3

𝑥 𝑦
C.
-6 -3

-5 -2

4 7

𝑥 𝑦
D.
-6 3

-5 3

4 3

ID: 6ecdbcb4 Answer

Correct Answer: B
Rationale

Choice B is correct. It’s given that 𝑓𝑥 = ( 𝑥 + 6 ) ( 𝑥 + 5 ) ( 𝑥 - 4 ) and 𝑦 = 𝑓 ( 𝑥 ) - 3. Substituting ( 𝑥 + 6 ) ( 𝑥 + 5 ) ( 𝑥 - 4 )

for 𝑓𝑥 in the equation 𝑦 = 𝑓 ( 𝑥 ) - 3 yields 𝑦 = ( 𝑥 + 6 ) ( 𝑥 + 5 ) ( 𝑥 - 4 ) - 3. Substituting -6 for 𝑥 in this equation yields
𝑦 = ( - 6 + 6 ) ( - 6 + 5 ) ( - 6 - 4 ) - 3, or 𝑦 = - 3. Substituting -5 for 𝑥 in the equation 𝑦 = ( 𝑥 + 6 ) ( 𝑥 + 5 ) ( 𝑥 - 4 ) - 3
yields 𝑦 = ( - 5 + 6 ) ( - 5 + 5 ) ( - 5 - 4 ) - 3, or 𝑦 = - 3. Substituting 4 for 𝑥 in the equation
𝑦 = ( 𝑥 + 6 ) ( 𝑥 + 5 ) ( 𝑥 - 4 ) - 3 yields 𝑦 = ( 4 + 6 ) ( 4 + 5 ) ( 4 - 4 ) - 3, or 𝑦 = - 3. Therefore, when 𝑥 = - 6 then 𝑦 = - 3,
when 𝑥 = - 5 then 𝑦 = - 3, and when 𝑥 = 4 then 𝑦 = - 3. Thus, the table of values in choice B represents 𝑦 = 𝑓 ( 𝑥 ) - 3.

Choice A is incorrect. This table represents 𝑦 = 𝑥 - 3 rather than 𝑦 = 𝑓 ( 𝑥 ) - 3.

Choice C is incorrect. This table represents 𝑦 = 𝑥 + 3 rather than 𝑦 = 𝑓 ( 𝑥 ) - 3.

Choice D is incorrect. This table represents 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥 + 3 rather than 𝑦 = 𝑓 ( 𝑥 ) - 3.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 203774bc
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 203774bc

The product of two positive integers is 546. If the first integer is 11 greater than twice the second integer, what is the
smaller of the two integers?

A. 7

B. 14

C. 39

D. 78

ID: 203774bc Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is correct. Let 𝑥 be the first integer and let 𝑦 be the second integer. If the first integer is 11 greater than twice
the second integer, then 𝑥 = 2𝑦 + 11. If the product of the two integers is 546, then 𝑥𝑦 = 546. Substituting 2𝑦 + 11 for 𝑥
in this equation results in 2𝑦 + 11𝑦 = 546. Distributing the 𝑦 to both terms in the parentheses results in 2𝑦2 + 11𝑦 = 546.
Subtracting 546 from both sides of this equation results in 2𝑦2 + 11𝑦 - 546 = 0. The left-hand side of this equation can
be factored by finding two values whose product is 2-546, or -1,092, and whose sum is 11. The two values whose product
is -1,092 and whose sum is 11 are 39 and -28. Thus, the equation 2𝑦2 + 11𝑦 - 546 = 0 can be rewritten as
2𝑦2 + 28𝑦 - 39𝑦 - 546 = 0, which is equivalent to 2𝑦𝑦 - 14 + 39𝑦 - 14 = 0, or 2𝑦 + 39𝑦 - 14 = 0. By the zero product
property, it follows that 2𝑦 + 39 = 0 and 𝑦 - 14 = 0. Subtracting 39 from both sides of the equation 2𝑦 + 39 = 0 yields
39 39
2𝑦 = - 39. Dividing both sides of this equation by 2 yields 𝑦 = - . Since 𝑦 is a positive integer, the value of 𝑦 is not - .
2 2
Adding 14 to both sides of the equation 𝑦 - 14 = 0 yields 𝑦 = 14. Substituting 14 for 𝑦 in the equation 𝑥𝑦 = 546 yields
𝑥14 = 546. Dividing both sides of this equation by 14 results in 𝑥 = 39. Therefore, the two integers are 14 and 39, so the
smaller of the two integers is 14.

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

Choice C is incorrect. This is the larger of the two integers.

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

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID b7c74b73
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: b7c74b73
𝑥
𝑓𝑥 = 5,4700.64 12
The function 𝑓 gives the value, in dollars, of a certain piece of equipment after 𝑥 months of use. If the value of the
equipment decreases each year by 𝑝% of its value the preceding year, what is the value of 𝑝?

A. 4

B. 5

C. 36

D. 64

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 c4cd5bcc
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: c4cd5bcc

In the xy-plane, the y-coordinate of the y-intercept of the graph of the function f
is c. Which of the following must be equal to c ?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: c4cd5bcc Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is correct. A y-intercept is the point in the xy-plane where the graph of the function crosses the y-axis, which is
where . It’s given that the y-coordinate of the y-intercept of the graph of function f is c. It follows that the coordinate
pair representing the y-intercept must be . Therefore, c must equal .

Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because , , and would represent the y-value of the coordinate where
, , and , respectively.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID dc77e0dc
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: dc77e0dc
𝑡
𝑓𝑡 = 5000.5 12
The function 𝑓 models the intensity of an X-ray beam, in number of particles in the X-ray beam, 𝑡 millimeters below the
surface of a sample of iron. According to the model, what is the estimated number of particles in the X-ray beam when it
is at the surface of the sample of iron?

A. 500

B. 12

C. 5

D. 2

ID: dc77e0dc Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale

Choice A is correct. It's given that the function 𝑓 models the intensity of an X-ray beam, in number of particles in the X-ray
beam, 𝑡 millimeters below the surface of a sample of iron. When the X-ray beam is at the surface of the sample of iron, it
𝑡
is 0 millimeters below the surface, so the value of 𝑡 is 0. Substituting 0 for 𝑡 in the function 𝑓𝑡 = 5000.5 12 yields
0
𝑓0 = 5000.5 12 . Since any positive number raised to the power of 0 is equal to 1, it follows that 𝑓0 = 5001, or 𝑓0 = 500.
Therefore, the estimated number of particles in the X-ray beam at the surface of the sample of iron is 500.

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: Medium

Question ID 735a0a00
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 735a0a00

𝑦 = 0.25𝑥2 - 7.5𝑥 + 90.25

The equation gives the estimated stock price 𝑦, in dollars, for a certain company 𝑥 days after a new product launched,
where 0 ≤ 𝑥 ≤ 20. Which statement is the best interpretation of 𝑥, 𝑦 = 1, 83 in this context?

A. The company's estimated stock price increased $ 83 every day after the new product launched.

B. The company's estimated stock price increased $ 1 every 83 days after the new product launched.

C. 1 day after the new product launched, the company's estimated stock price is $ 83.

D. 83 days after the new product launched, the company's estimated stock price is $ 1.

ID: 735a0a00 Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is correct. In the given equation, 𝑥 represents the number of days after a new product launched, where
0 ≤ 𝑥 ≤ 20, and 𝑦 represents the estimated stock price, in dollars, for a certain company. Therefore, the best
interpretation of 𝑥, 𝑦 = 1, 83 in this context is that 1 day after the new product launched, the company's estimated stock
price is $ 83.

Choice A is incorrect and may result from conceptual errors. Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual errors.

Choice D is incorrect and may result from conceptual errors.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 2d394c28
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 2d394c28

The graph shown models the number of residents of a certain city 𝑥 years after 2010. How many residents does this
model estimate the city had in 2010?

A. 0

B. 2,000

C. 20,000

D. 25,000

ID: 2d394c28 Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
Choice C is correct. It's given that 𝑥 represents years after 2010. Therefore, 2010 is represented by 𝑥 = 0. On the model
shown, the point with an x-coordinate of 0 has a y-coordinate of 20,000. Thus, the model estimates that in 2010, the city
had 20,000 residents.

Choice A is incorrect. This is the value of 𝑥 that represents the year 2010.

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

Choice D is incorrect. This is approximately the number of residents the model estimates the city had in 2014, not 2010.
Question Difficulty: Easy
Question ID 2b6c12eb
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 2b6c12eb

What is the x-coordinate of the x-intercept of the graph shown?

ID: 2b6c12eb Answer

Correct Answer: 6

Rationale
The correct answer is 6. An x-intercept of a graph is a point on the graph where it intersects the x-axis, or where the value
of 𝑦 is 0. The graph shown intersects the x-axis at the point 6, 0. Therefore, the x-coordinate of the x-intercept of the
graph shown is 6.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 78d5f91a
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 78d5f91a

For the function f defined above, what is

the value of ?

A.

B.

C. 7

D. 11

ID: 78d5f91a Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale

Choice C is correct. Substituting for x in the given function f gives , which

simplifies to . This further simplifies to , or .

Choice A is incorrect and may result from correctly substituting for x in the function but incorrectly simplifying the

resulting expression to , or . Choice B is incorrect and may result from arithmetic errors.
Choice D is incorrect and may result from correctly substituting for x in the function but incorrectly simplifying the
expression to , or 11.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID d675744f
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: d675744f

Which of the following is the graph in the xy-

plane of the given equation?

A.

B.

C.

D.

ID: d675744f Answer

Correct Answer: D
Rationale

Choice D is correct. The y-intercept of the graph of an equation is the point , where b is the value of y when .
For the given equation, when . It follows that the y-intercept of the graph of the given equation is .
Additionally, for the given equation, the value of y doubles for each increase of 1 in the value of x. Therefore, the graph
contains the points , , , and . Only the graph shown in choice D passes through these points.

Choices A and B are incorrect because these are graphs of decreasing, not increasing, exponential functions. Choice C is
incorrect because the value of y increases by a growth factor greater than 2 for each increase of 1 in the value of x.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 79e6ec70
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 79e6ec70

What is the x-intercept of the graph shown?

A. (-5, 0)

B. (5, 0)

C. (-2, 0)

D. (2, 0)

ID: 79e6ec70 Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is correct. An x-intercept of a graph in the xy-plane is a point at which the graph crosses the x-axis. The graph
shown crosses the x-axis at the point 5, 0. Therefore, the x-intercept of the graph shown is 5, 0.

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: Easy

Question ID 5377d9cf
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 5377d9cf

If ,
what is ?

A. –5

B. –2

C. 2

D. 5

ID: 5377d9cf Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale

Choice A is correct. Substituting –1 for x in the equation that defines f gives . Simplifying

the expressions in the numerator and denominator yields , which is equal to or –5.

Choices B, C, and D are incorrect and may result from misapplying the order of operations when substituting –1 for x.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID f2d60b99
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: f2d60b99

1
The function 𝑓𝑥 = 𝑥 - 72 + 3 gives a metal ball's height above the ground 𝑓𝑥, in inches, 𝑥 seconds after it started moving
9
on a track, where 0 ≤ 𝑥 ≤ 10. Which of the following is the best interpretation of the vertex of the graph of 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥 in the
xy-plane?

A. The metal ball's minimum height was 3 inches above the ground.

B. The metal ball's minimum height was 7 inches above the ground.

C. The metal ball's height was 3 inches above the ground when it started moving.

D. The metal ball's height was 7 inches above the ground when it started moving.

ID: f2d60b99 Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is correct. The graph of a quadratic equation in the form 𝑦 = 𝑎𝑥 - ℎ2 + 𝑘, where 𝑎, ℎ, and 𝑘 are positive
1
constants, is a parabola that opens upward with vertex ℎ, 𝑘. The given function 𝑓𝑥 = 𝑥 - 72 + 3 is in the form
9
1
𝑦 = 𝑎𝑥 - ℎ2 + 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 2
given that 𝑓𝑥 = 9 𝑥 - 7 + 3 represents the metal ball’s height above the ground, in inches, 𝑥 seconds after it started
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 67f4b449
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 67f4b449

The function 𝑓𝑤 = 6𝑤2 gives the area of a rectangle, in square feet ft2 , if its width is 𝑤 ft and its length is 6 times its
width. Which of the following is the best interpretation of 𝑓14 = 1,176?

A. If the width of the rectangle is 14 ft, then the area of the rectangle is 1,176 ft2 .

B. If the width of the rectangle is 14 ft, then the length of the rectangle is 1,176 ft.

C. If the width of the rectangle is 1,176 ft, then the length of the rectangle is 14 ft.

D. If the width of the rectangle is 1,176 ft, then the area of the rectangle is 14 ft2 .

ID: 67f4b449 Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
2
Choice A is correct. The function 𝑓 gives the area of the rectangle, in ft , if its width is 𝑤 ft. Since the value of 𝑓14 is the
value of 𝑓𝑤 if 𝑤 = 14, it follows that 𝑓14 = 1,176 means that 𝑓𝑤 is 1,176 if 𝑤 = 14. In the given context, this means that if
the width of the rectangle is 14 ft, then the area of the rectangle is 1,176 ft2 .

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual errors. Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual errors.

Choice D is incorrect and may result from interpreting 𝑓𝑤 as the width, in ft, of the rectangle if its area is 𝑤 ft2 , rather
than as the area, in ft2 , of the rectangle if its width is 𝑤 ft.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 44076c7d
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 44076c7d

𝑥 𝑓𝑥

-1 10

0 14

1 20
For the quadratic function 𝑓, the table shows three values of 𝑥 and their corresponding values of 𝑓𝑥. Which equation
defines 𝑓?

A. 𝑓(𝑥) = 3𝑥2 + 3𝑥 + 14

B. 𝑓(𝑥) = 5𝑥2 + 𝑥 + 14

C. 𝑓(𝑥) = 9𝑥2 - 𝑥 + 14

D. 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥2 + 5𝑥 + 14

ID: 44076c7d Answer

Correct Answer: D
Rationale
Choice D is correct. The equation of a quadratic function can be written in the form 𝑓𝑥 = 𝑎𝑥 - ℎ2 + 𝑘, where 𝑎, ℎ, and 𝑘 are
constants. It’s given in the table that when 𝑥 = - 1, the corresponding value of 𝑓𝑥 is 10. Substituting -1 for 𝑥 and 10 for 𝑓𝑥
in the equation 𝑓𝑥 = 𝑎𝑥 - ℎ2 + 𝑘 gives 10 = 𝑎-1 - ℎ2 + 𝑘, which is equivalent to 10 = 𝑎1 + 2ℎ + ℎ2 + 𝑘, or
2
10 = 𝑎 + 2𝑎ℎ + 𝑎ℎ + 𝑘. It’s given in the table that when 𝑥 = 0, the corresponding value of 𝑓𝑥 is 14. Substituting 0 for 𝑥
2 2 2
and 14 for 𝑓𝑥 in the equation 𝑓𝑥 = 𝑎𝑥 - ℎ + 𝑘 gives 14 = 𝑎0 - ℎ + 𝑘, or 14 = 𝑎ℎ + 𝑘. It’s given in the table that when
2
𝑥 = 1, the corresponding value of 𝑓𝑥 is 20. Substituting 1 for 𝑥 and 20 for 𝑓𝑥 in the equation 𝑓𝑥 = 𝑎𝑥 - ℎ + 𝑘 gives
2 2 2 2
20 = 𝑎1 - ℎ + 𝑘, which is equivalent to 20 = 𝑎1 - 2ℎ + ℎ + 𝑘, or 20 = 𝑎 - 2𝑎ℎ + 𝑎ℎ + 𝑘. Adding 20 = 𝑎 - 2𝑎ℎ + 𝑎ℎ + 𝑘 to
2 2
the equation 10 = 𝑎 + 2𝑎ℎ + 𝑎ℎ + 𝑘 gives 30 = 2𝑎 + 2𝑎ℎ + 2𝑘. Dividing both sides of this equation by 2 gives
2 2 2 2
15 = 𝑎 + 𝑎ℎ + 𝑘. Since 14 = 𝑎ℎ + 𝑘, substituting 14 for 𝑎ℎ + 𝑘 into the equation 15 = 𝑎 + 𝑎ℎ + 𝑘 gives 15 = 𝑎 + 14.
2
Subtracting 14 from both sides of this equation gives 𝑎 = 1. Substituting 1 for 𝑎 in the equations 14 = 𝑎ℎ + 𝑘 and
2 2 2 2
20 = 𝑎ℎ - 2𝑎ℎ + 𝑎 + 𝑘 gives 14 = ℎ + 𝑘 and 20 = 1 - 2ℎ + ℎ + 𝑘, respectively. Since 14 = ℎ + 𝑘, substituting 14 for
ℎ2 + 𝑘 in the equation 20 = 1 - 2ℎ + ℎ2 + 𝑘 gives 20 = 1 - 2ℎ + 14, or 20 = 15 - 2ℎ. Subtracting 15 from both sides of this
5 5
equation gives 5 = - 2ℎ. Dividing both sides of this equation by -2 gives - 2 = ℎ. Substituting - 2 for ℎ into the equation
52 25 25 31
14 = ℎ2 + 𝑘 gives 14 = - 2 + 𝑘, or 14 = 4
+ 𝑘. Subtracting 4
from both sides of this equation gives 4
= 𝑘. Substituting
5 31 52 31
1 for 𝑎, - 2 for ℎ, and 4 for 𝑘 in the equation 𝑓𝑥 = 𝑎𝑥 - ℎ2 + 𝑘 gives 𝑓𝑥 = 𝑥 + 2
+ 4
, which is equivalent to
25 31
𝑓𝑥 = 𝑥2 + 5𝑥 + + , or 𝑓𝑥 = 𝑥2 + 5𝑥 + 14. Therefore, 𝑓𝑥 = 𝑥2 + 5𝑥 + 14 defines 𝑓.
4 4

Choice A is incorrect. If 𝑓𝑥 = 3𝑥2 + 3𝑥 + 14, then when 𝑥 = - 1, the corresponding value of 𝑓𝑥 is 14, not 10.

Choice B is incorrect. If 𝑓𝑥 = 5𝑥2 + 𝑥 + 14, then when 𝑥 = - 1, the corresponding value of 𝑓𝑥 is 18, not 10.

Choice C is incorrect. If 𝑓𝑥 = 9𝑥2 - 𝑥 + 14, then when 𝑥 = - 1, the corresponding value of 𝑓𝑥 is 24, not 10, and when 𝑥 = 1,
the corresponding value of 𝑓𝑥 is 22, not 20.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 1f353a9e
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 1f353a9e

𝑡
𝑓𝑡 = 8,0000.65
The given function 𝑓 models the number of coupons a company sent to their customers at the end of each year, where 𝑡
represents the number of years since the end of 1998, and 0 ≤ 𝑡 ≤ 5. If 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑡 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 5 years was 1,428.

B. The minimum estimated number of coupons the company sent to their customers during the 5 years was 8,000.

C. The estimated number of coupons the company sent to their customers at the end of 1998 was 1,428.

D. The estimated number of coupons the company sent to their customers at the end of 1998 was 8,000.

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 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 -3?

𝑥 𝑥
𝑓(𝑥) = - 6(3) - 3 𝑔(𝑥) = - 3(6)

A. I only

B. II only

C. I and II

D. Neither I nor II

ID: 270cf326 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. A function of the form 𝑓𝑥 = 𝑎𝑏𝑥 + 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 75915e3c
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 75915e3c

For the function f defined above, what

is the value of ?

A. 9

B. 12

C. 18

D. 36

ID: 75915e3c Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale

Choice C is correct. The value of is found by evaluating the expression when . Substituting 2 for x in the

given equation yields . Simplifying in the equation results in . Evaluating the right-hand side
of the equation yields . Therefore, the value of is 18.

Choice A is incorrect and may result from evaluating the expression as . Choice B is incorrect and may result from

evaluating the expression as . Choice D is incorrect and may result from evaluating the expression as .

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID f44a29a8
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: f44a29a8

An object’s kinetic energy, in joules, is equal to the product of one-half the

object’s mass, in kilograms, and the square of the object’s speed, in meters per
second. What is the speed, in meters per second, of an object with a mass of 4
kilograms and kinetic energy of 18 joules?

A. 3

B. 6

C. 9

D. 36

ID: f44a29a8 Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is correct. It’s given that an object’s kinetic energy, in joules, is equal to the product of one-half the object’s
mass, in kilograms, and the square of the object’s speed, in meters per second. This relationship can be represented by

the equation , where K is the kinetic energy, m is the mass, and v is the speed. Substituting a mass of 4

kilograms for m and a kinetic energy of 18 joules for K results in the equation , or . Dividing

both sides of this equation by 2 yields . Taking the square root of both sides yields and . Since
speed can’t be expressed as a negative number, the speed of the object is 3 meters per second.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from computation errors. Choice C is incorrect. This is the value of rather than v.

Choice D is incorrect. This is the value of rather than v.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 92f812bb
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 92f812bb

In the xy-plane, a parabola has vertex ( 9, -14 ) and intersects the x-axis at two points. If the equation of the parabola is
written in the form 𝑦 = 𝑎𝑥2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐, where 𝑎, 𝑏, and 𝑐 are constants, which of the following could be the value of
𝑎 + 𝑏 + 𝑐?

A. -23

B. -19

C. -14

D. -12

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
2 2
equation 𝑦 = 𝑎𝑥 - ℎ + 𝑘 gives 𝑦 = 𝑎𝑥 - 9 - 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 = 64 , which is a positive value. Therefore, if the equation of
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 f547a8b1
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: f547a8b1

What is the y-intercept of the graph shown?

A. (-8, 0)

B. (-6, 0)

C. (0, 6)

D. (0, 8)

ID: f547a8b1 Answer

Correct Answer: D

Rationale
Choice D is correct. The y-intercept of a graph in the xy-plane is the point at which the graph crosses the y-axis. The
graph shown crosses the y-axis at the point 0, 8. Therefore, the y-intercept of the graph shown is 0, 8.

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: Easy

Question ID 2f4eafcc
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 2f4eafcc

The parabola shown intersects the y-axis at the point 𝑥, 𝑦. What is the value of 𝑦?

ID: 2f4eafcc Answer

Correct Answer: 7

Rationale
The correct answer is 7. It's given that the parabola intersects the y-axis at the point 𝑥, 𝑦. The graph shows that the
parabola intersects the y-axis at the point 0, 7. Therefore, the value of 𝑦 is 7.

Question Difficulty: Easy

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 9da41c80
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 9da41c80

A ball is dropped from an initial height of 22 feet and bounces off the ground repeatedly. The function ℎ estimates that
the maximum height reached after each time the ball hits the ground is 85% of the maximum height reached after the
previous time the ball hit the ground. Which equation defines ℎ, where ℎ ( 𝑛 ) is the estimated maximum height of the ball
after it has hit the ground 𝑛 times and 𝑛 is a whole number greater than 1 and less than 10?
𝑛
A. ℎ ( 𝑛 ) = 22 ( 0.22 )
𝑛
B. ℎ ( 𝑛 ) = 22 ( 0.85 )

C. ℎ ( 𝑛 ) = 85(0.22)𝑛
𝑛
D. ℎ ( 𝑛 ) = 85 ( 0.85 )

ID: 9da41c80 Answer

Correct Answer: B

Rationale
Choice B is correct. It's given that for the function ℎ, ℎ𝑛 is the estimated maximum height, in feet, of the ball after it has
hit the ground 𝑛 times. It's also given that the function ℎ estimates that the maximum height reached after each time the
ball hits the ground is 85% of the maximum height reached after the previous time the ball hit the ground. It follows that
𝑝 𝑛
ℎ is a decreasing exponential function that can be written in the form ℎ𝑛 = 𝑎 , where 𝑎 is the initial height, in feet, the
100
ball was dropped from and the function estimates that the maximum height reached after each time the ball hits the
ground is 𝑝% of the maximum height reached after the previous time the ball hit the ground. It's given that the ball is
dropped from an initial height of 22 feet. Therefore, 𝑎 = 22. Since the function ℎ estimates that the maximum height
reached after each time the ball hits the ground is 85% of the maximum height reached after the previous time the ball
𝑝 𝑛 85 𝑛 𝑛
hit the ground, 𝑝 = 85. Substituting 22 for 𝑎 and 85 for 𝑝 in the equation ℎ𝑛 = 𝑎 100 yields ℎ𝑛 = 22 100 , or ℎ𝑛 = 220.85 .

Choice A is incorrect. This function estimates that the maximum height reached after each time the ball hits the ground
is 22%, not 85%, of the maximum height reached after the previous time the ball hit the ground.

Choice C is incorrect. This function estimates that the ball is dropped from an initial height of 85 feet, not 22 feet, and
that the maximum height reached after each time the ball hits the ground is 22%, not 85%, of the maximum height
reached after the previous time the ball hit the ground.

Choice D is incorrect. This function estimates that the ball is dropped from an initial height of 85 feet, not 22 feet.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID 7160cbb3
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 7160cbb3

What is the y-intercept of the graph shown?

A. (0, -6)

B. (-6, 0)

C. (0, 0)

D. (-5, - 5)

ID: 7160cbb3 Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is correct. The y-intercept of a graph in the xy-plane is the point 𝑥, 𝑦 on the graph where 𝑥 = 0. For the graph
shown, at 𝑥 = 0, the corresponding value of y is -6. Therefore, the y-intercept of the graph shown is 0, - 6.

Choice B is incorrect and may result from conceptual errors. Choice C is incorrect and may result from conceptual errors.

Choice D is incorrect and may result from conceptual errors.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID d71f6dbf
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: d71f6dbf

The height, in feet, of an object x seconds after it is thrown straight up in the air
can be modeled by the function . Based on the model,

which of the following statements best interprets the equation ?

A. The height of the object 1.4 seconds after being thrown straight up in the air is 1.64 feet.

B. The height of the object 1.64 seconds after being thrown straight up in the air is 1.4 feet.

The height of the object 1.64 seconds after being thrown straight up in the air is approximately 1.4 times as great as
C. its initial height.

D. The speed of the object 1.4 seconds after being thrown straight up in the air is approximately 1.64 feet per second.

ID: d71f6dbf Answer

Correct Answer: A

Rationale
Choice A is correct. The value 1.4 is the value of x, which represents the number of seconds after the object was thrown
straight up in the air. When the function h is evaluated for x = 1.4, the function has a value of 1.64, which is the height, in
feet, of the object.

Choices B and C are incorrect and may result from misidentifying seconds as feet and feet as seconds. Additionally,
choice C may result from incorrectly including the initial height of the object as the input x. Choice D is incorrect and may
result from misidentifying height as speed.

Question Difficulty: Medium

Question ID 20722644
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: 20722644

The function 𝑓 is defined by 𝑓𝑥 = 𝑥3 + 9. What is the value of 𝑓2?

A. 14

B. 15

C. 17

D. 18

ID: 20722644 Answer

Correct Answer: C

Rationale
3
Choice C is correct. It's given that 𝑓𝑥 = 𝑥3 + 9. Substituting 2 for 𝑥 in this equation yields 𝑓2 = 2 + 9. This is equivalent
to 𝑓2 = 8 + 9, or 𝑓2 = 17.

3
Choice A is incorrect. This is the value of 2 + 3 + 9, not 2 + 9.

Choice B is incorrect. This is the value of 23 + 9, not 23 + 9. Choice D is incorrect. This is the value of 32 + 9, not 23 + 9.

Question Difficulty: Easy

Question ID bba18ecb
Assessment Test Domain Skill Difficulty

SAT Math Advanced Math Nonlinear functions

ID: bba18ecb

When the quadratic function 𝑓 is graphed in the xy-plane, where 𝑦 = 𝑓𝑥, its vertex is -3, 6. One of the x-intercepts of this
17
graph is - , 0. What is the other x-intercept of the graph?
4
29
A. (- , 0)
4
7
B. (- , 0)
4
5
C. ( 4 , 0)
17
D. ( 4 , 0)

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
𝑥1 + 𝑥2
of two points with x-coordinates 𝑥1 and 𝑥2 has x-coordinate 𝑥𝑚 , where 𝑥𝑚 = . 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 - 4 , 0.

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