16Hit1600
AlgebraMediumMeaning of the x-intercept in context

Algebra practice question

The function p(t) = 220 − 4t models the number of litres of fuel in a generator's tank t hours after it is switched on. What does the value 55 represent in this context, given that p(55) = 0?

  1. A. The number of hours until the tank is emptyCorrect
  2. B. The number of litres the tank held at the start
  3. C. The number of litres used each hour
  4. D. The number of litres left after one hour

Answer: A. The number of hours until the tank is empty

p(55) = 0 means that after 55 hours there is no fuel left: the tank empties at 55 hours.

Why the other answers are wrong

B. The number of litres the tank held at the start
The starting amount is p(0) = 220 litres.
C. The number of litres used each hour
The hourly use is the slope's size, 4 litres.
D. The number of litres left after one hour
After one hour there are 216 litres.

More Algebra questions

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