16Hit1600
AlgebraEasy–MediumGreatest value in a solution set

Algebra practice question

If −2x + 7 ≥ 1, what is the greatest possible value of x?

  1. A. 3Correct
  2. B. 4
  3. C. −3
  4. D. −4

Answer: A. 3

Subtract 7: −2x ≥ −6. Divide by −2 and reverse the sign: x ≤ 3. The greatest allowed value is 3. Check: −6 + 7 = 1 ≥ 1.

Why the other answers are wrong

B. 4
4 fails: −8 + 7 = −1, which is not ≥ 1. The inequality flips when dividing by −2.
C. −3
−3 satisfies the inequality, but it isn't the greatest value: 3 works too.
D. −4
−4 also works but is even smaller. The boundary is x = 3.

More Algebra questions

Not affiliated with the College Board. SAT is a trademark of the College Board.