16Hit1600
AlgebraVery hardSolving f(2x) for a linear f

Algebra practice question

The function f is linear, with f(0) = −5 and a slope of 3. For what value of x is f(2x) = 19?

Answer: 4

f(x) = 3x − 5, so f(2x) = 3(2x) − 5 = 6x − 5. Set 6x − 5 = 19: 6x = 24, x = 4.

Common wrong answers

If you answered 2
2 comes from 6x = 12, subtracting 5 instead of adding it to 19.
If you answered 8
8 solves f(x) = 19 (3x − 5 = 19). But the question asks about f(2x), so x is half of that.
If you answered 24
24 is 6x, one step short; divide by 6.

More Algebra questions

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