Digital PSAT Math Practice Question 238: Answer and Explanation

Question: 238

At what x values would the function y = x(x - 5)(x + 2) intersect the x axis?

• A. -10
• B. 0, 3, 12
• C. 2, -5
• D. 0, 5, -2

Correct Answer: D

Explanation:

(D) A function intersects the x-axis at its roots where y = 0: this will occur when any of these three factors equals 0. Set each factor equal to 0 to determine the x values.

x = 0.

x - 5 = 0, so x = 5.

x + 2 = 0, so x = - 2. Therefore, the three x values are 0, 5, and - 2, answer (D).