SAT Linear Functions Question 88 | Free SAT Prep | Aniko

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Question 88·Easy·Linear Functions

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The amount of nectar $y$ , in milliliters, remaining in a hummingbird feeder $x$ days after it is filled is modeled by the equation

y = 600 - 45x

Which choice best describes the meaning of the number 600 in this context?

When a linear model is written as $y=mx+b$ , quickly connect $m$ to the rate of change per 1 unit of $x$ and $b$ to the starting value at $x=0$ . If asked about the meaning of $b$ , evaluate the expression at $x=0$ and interpret that value in context.

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Use $x=0$

In this situation, what does $x=0$ days mean?

Substitute into the equation

Find $y$ when $x=0$ by plugging $0$ into $y = 600 - 45x$ .

Interpret the result

The value of $y$ when $x=0$ is the starting amount in the feeder.

Desmos Guide

Graph the equation

In Desmos, enter $y=600-45x$ .

Find the intercept and interpret

Look at the point where the line crosses the $y$ -axis (where $x=0$ ). That $y$ -value is the initial amount of nectar.

Step-by-step Explanation

Identify what the constant term represents

In $y = 600 - 45x$ , the number 600 is the constant term, which equals the value of $y$ when $x=0$ .

Evaluate the model at $x=0$ and interpret

Substitute $x=0$ :

y = 600 - 45(0) = 600

So the model says the feeder starts with 600 milliliters of nectar.

Strategy

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Desmos Guide

Step-by-step Explanation

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Strategy

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Desmos Guide

Step-by-step Explanation