SAT Nonlinear equations in one variable and systems of equations in two variables Practice Question 12 (Medium)

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Question bank / Nonlinear equations in one variable and systems of equations in two variables

Math · Advanced MathMedium

What is the sum of the solutions to the equation $|2x - 5| = 9$ ?

$-2$

$5$

$7$

$9$

Show answer and explanation

Answer: B

Either $2x - 5 = 9$ or $2x - 5 = -9$ . The first gives $x = 7$ and the second gives $x = -2$ . The sum is $7 + (-2) = 5$ .

Choice C is only the positive solution; the absolute value equation has a second solution, $-2$ .

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