16Hit1600
AlgebraHardTime to reach zero from two readings

Algebra practice question

A candle was 45 centimetres tall when lit and 15 centimetres tall after 6 hours, burning at a constant rate. After how many hours from lighting will it burn out completely?

  1. A. 9Correct
  2. B. 8
  3. C. 15
  4. D. 3

Answer: A. 9

Rate: 30 cm in 6 hours is 5 cm per hour. 45 ÷ 5 = 9 hours.

Why the other answers are wrong

B. 8
8 hours leaves 5 cm.
C. 15
15 is the height after 6 hours, not a time.
D. 3
3 hours is the time to burn the last 15 cm, not the total.

More Algebra questions

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