PSAT Math Multiple-Choice Question 441: Answer and Explanation

Question: 441

What positive value(s) of z satisfy the equation ?

• A. 2
• B. 2 and -10
• C. 4 and 2
• D. None of the above

Correct Answer: A

Explanation:

A

Difficulty: Easy

Getting to the Answer: Rearrange the equation first so you can factor 4 out. From there, divide by 4, then factor as usual:

Keep in mind that while z is equal to -10 or 2, the question asks only for the positive value, which is (A). Reading carefully, you could have eliminated (B) before doing any calculations because it includes a negative value.