SAT Math · Nonlinear functions · easy

The variable y varies inversely with x. When x=7, y=10. What is the value of y when x=14?

The variable yy varies inversely with xx. When x=7x=7, y=10y=10. What is the value of yy when x=14x=14?

Answer and explanation

Answer: D: 5

Inverse variation means xyxy is constant. From x=7x = 7 and y=10y = 10, the constant is k=70k = 70. When x=14x = 14, y=7014=5y = \frac{70}{14} = 5, choice D. Since xx doubled, yy must be cut in half: 10÷2=510 \div 2 = 5. Choice A (20) doubles yy, treating the relationship as direct. Choice B (7) is the original xx-value. Choice C (2.5) halves yy twice, which would match x=28x = 28. For inverse variation, multiplying xx by a factor divides yy by the same factor.

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