PSAT Math Multiple-Choice Question 290: Answer and Explanation

Question: 290

A tractor trailer has a maximum capacity of 8,000 pounds. The equipment needed to load and unload the trailer must travel with the trailer and weighs a combined 1,500 pounds. The trailer will be loaded with x containers, each of which weighs 300 pounds. What is the largest value of x such that the trailer's capacity is not exceeded?

• A. 5
• B. 15
• C. 21
• D. 26

Correct Answer: C

Explanation:

C

Difficulty: Medium

Category: Solving Equations

Strategic Advice: Break apart the question into its mathematical parts; determine what information you have and what value you need to find and then determine how you'll find that value.

Getting to the Answer: To answer this question, organize the information you know. The capacity of the trailer is 8,000 pounds. However, equipment that is already on the trailer weighs 1,500 pounds, so there is only 8,000- 1,500 = 6,500 pounds of remaining capacity. Each container weighs 300 pounds, so divide 6,500 by 300 to determine the maximum number of containers that can be packed: . Partial containers may not be packed, so round down to 21, which is (C).