16Hit1600
AlgebraVery hardChange in y for a change in x along a line

Algebra practice question

In the xy-plane, the points (a, 6) and (a + 3, 4) both lie on the line 2x + 3y = 10. What is the value of a?

Answer: -4

Substitute (a, 6): 2a + 18 = 10 → a = −4. Check with (a + 3, 4) = (−1, 4): −2 + 12 = 10. ✓

Common wrong answers

If you answered 4
4 has the wrong sign: 2a = 10 − 18 = −8.
If you answered -1
−1 is a + 3, the x-coordinate of the second point.
If you answered -8
−8 is 2a, before dividing by 2.

More Algebra questions

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