ISEE Word Problems Question 172: Answer and Explanation

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Question: 172

3. If 4a – 4 = abb and a ≠ 1, what is the value of b ?

  • A. –4
  • B. –1
  • C. 0
  • D. 4

Correct Answer: D

Explanation:

The answer is D

Factor common terms from the expressions on both sides of the equation: 4(a - 1) = b(a - 1). Next divide both sides by (a - 1): b = 4.

Because a can be anything other than 1, plug in for a. If a = 2, then (4)(2) - 4 = 2b - b. Thus, 4 = b. If you are not convinced, try another value for a. If a = 0, then (4)(0) - 4 = (0)(b) - b. Thus, -4 = -b, or 4 = b.

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