PSAT Math Multiple-Choice Question 19: Answer and Explanation

Question: 19

In the equation above, what is the value of m?

• A. -17
• B. -12
• C. 5
• D. 10

Correct Answer: B

Explanation:

B

The question asks for the value of m. Isolate m on one side of the equation. To start, multiply the whole equation by 21 to eliminate the fractions. becomes 7(m + 9) + 42 = 3(m - 2) + 63. Distribute to get 7m + 63 + 42 = 3m - 6 + 63. Combine like terms to get 7m + 105 = 3m + 57. Subtract 3m and 105 from both sides to get 4m = -48. Divide both sides by 4 to get m = -12. The correct answer is (B).