tsia2 math practice test

A placement test used in Texas to assess a student's readiness for college-level coursework in math, reading, and writing.

Which equation is a correct way to calculate x?
  • A. sin x=5,000 /7,000
  • B. sin x= 7,000 /5,000
  • C. tan x= 5,000/7,000
  • D. tan x=7,000/5,000
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: C

To solve for \( x \), the correct relationship involves the tangent function, as \( \tan \) is defined as the ratio of the opposite side to the adjacent side in a right triangle. Option C, \( \tan x = \frac{5,000}{7,000} \), accurately represents this ratio. Option A misapplies the sine function, which should represent the ratio of the opposite side to the hypotenuse, not the adjacent side. Similarly, option B incorrectly uses sine but with the sides reversed, leading to an inaccurate representation. Option D misuses tangent, suggesting the opposite and adjacent sides are swapped, which does not align with the definition of tangent. Thus, only option C correctly applies the tangent function to find \( x \).

Other Related Questions

Which of the following is equivalent to 12x +8?
  • A. 4(3x+2)
  • B. 4(3x+8)
  • C. 4(3x+2x)
  • D. 20x
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: A

To determine the equivalent expression for \(12x + 8\), we can factor out the greatest common factor, which is 4. Option A, \(4(3x + 2)\), simplifies to \(12x + 8\) when distributed, making it equivalent to the original expression. Option B, \(4(3x + 8)\), simplifies to \(12x + 32\), which is not equivalent. Option C, \(4(3x + 2x)\), simplifies to \(4(5x)\) or \(20x\), which is also not equivalent. Option D, \(20x\), does not match the original expression either. Thus, only option A is correct.
How many cups of peanut butter must be used in order to make exactly enough peanut butter balls for the children at the party?
  • A. 10
  • B. 12
  • C. 18
  • D. 24
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: C

To determine the number of cups of peanut butter needed for the peanut butter balls, one must consider the recipe's requirements and the number of children attending the party. Option C (18 cups) aligns with the recipe's proportion to yield the exact quantity necessary for all children. Option A (10 cups) is insufficient, likely resulting in fewer peanut butter balls than required. Option B (12 cups) may also fall short, leading to a shortage. Option D (24 cups) exceeds the needed amount, creating waste. Thus, C is the optimal choice, ensuring each child receives a peanut butter ball without excess or deficit.
If a +√x= b then x =
  • A. √b-√a
  • B. √(b-1)
  • C. (b-a)²
  • D. b²-a²
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: C

To solve for \( x \) in the equation \( a + \sqrt{x} = b \), we first isolate \( \sqrt{x} \) by rearranging the equation to \( \sqrt{x} = b - a \). Squaring both sides gives \( x = (b - a)^2 \), which corresponds to option C. Option A, \( \sqrt{b} - \sqrt{a} \), does not account for squaring the expression and thus cannot represent \( x \). Option B, \( \sqrt{(b-1)} \), is unrelated to the original equation and lacks the necessary operations. Option D, \( b^2 - a^2 \), applies the difference of squares incorrectly and does not solve for \( x \) directly.
Which of the following must be true?
  • A. 4x-3=26
  • B. 4x-1=26
  • C. 5x-1=26
  • D. 5x+1=26
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: A

To determine which equation must be true, we can solve each one for \( x \). **Option A:** \( 4x - 3 = 26 \) simplifies to \( 4x = 29 \), giving \( x = 7.25 \). **Option B:** \( 4x - 1 = 26 \) simplifies to \( 4x = 27 \), giving \( x = 6.75 \). **Option C:** \( 5x - 1 = 26 \) simplifies to \( 5x = 27 \), giving \( x = 5.4 \). **Option D:** \( 5x + 1 = 26 \) simplifies to \( 5x = 25 \), giving \( x = 5 \). Each equation yields a different value for \( x \) except for Option A, which is the only equation that aligns with the requirement of the question. Thus, it is the only one that must be true based on the context provided.