Digital PSAT Math Practice Question 298: Answer and Explanation

Question: 298

What are the solution(s) for x in the equation - |2.4x + 13.5| = 3?

• A. -4.375 only
• B. -6.875 only
• C. Both -4.375 and -6.875
• D. No possible solutions

Correct Answer: D

Explanation:

(D) First divide both sides of the equation by -1 to obtain

|2.4x + 13.5| = - 3

Recall that the absolute value of a number represents that number's distance from zero. Since it is a distance, the absolute value of something must always be nonnegative. In particular, it can never equal -3. Thus, there are no possible solutions to this equation.