PSAT Math Multiple-Choice Question 304: Answer and Explanation

Question: 304

Which approximate value of x satisfies the equation shown?

• A. 4.3
• B. 4.6
• C. 6.6
• D. 6.8

Correct Answer: D

Explanation:

D

Difficulty: Medium

Getting to the Answer: Multiply both sides by 7 to eliminate the fraction outside the parentheses. Then, because the choices are decimals, convert all fractions to decimal form: 8(x - 0.46) + 28(x + 0.89) = 266. Distribute to get 8x - 3.68 + 28x + 24.92 = 266, then combine like terms to yield 36x = 266 + 3.68 - 24.92, or 36x = 244.76. Divide both sides by 36 to find that x = 6.8, which is (D).