Digital SAT Math

Bluebook Test 4 Math Module 2 Question 20: y = 3x² - bx + 12 One x-Intercept

2026-08-22 5 min read
• Direct Answer / Key Takeaway

Delta = (-b)^2 - 4(3)(12) = 0 => b^2 = 144 => b = 12 (since b > 0).

Exact Question Text

In the xy-plane, the graph of y = 3x^2 - bx + 12 intersects the x-axis at exactly one point. If b > 0, what is the value of b?

1. Step-by-Step Formal Solution

  1. One x-intercept => Delta = 0.
  2. b^2 - 144 = 0 => b = 12.
  3. Option B is correct.

2. Fast Desmos / Calculator Shortcut

Type y = 3x^2 - bx + 12 with slider b = 12. Vertex touches (2, 0).


3. Distractor Trap Analysis

  • Trap A (Sign Flip): Forgetting to reverse inequality or dropping negative sign.
  • Trap B (Partial Evaluation): Solving for intermediate variable and stopping early.
  • Trap C (Extreme Assumption): Over-inferring beyond textual evidence.
  • Option Correct: Accurately satisfies all algebraic and logical constraints.

Ready for Test Day?

Exam readiness starts with your body, not just your textbook. Calculate your Body Readiness Score (0–100) and get daily 10-second micro-protocols tailored to your weakest biological pillar.

Download ExamPeak Free

Related Exam Questions & Solutions

Digital SAT Math
SAT Math: 4x - 6y = 18 and kx + 9y = p Infinitely Many Solutions, Find p/k

How to solve linear systems with constants k and p having infinitely many solutions on Digital SAT Math Module 2....

Digital SAT Math
SAT Math: Find the Maximum Value of f(x) = -2(x - 5)² + 18 in Under 5 Seconds

Step-by-step solution, fast Desmos shortcuts, and trap distractor analysis for: maximum value of f(x) = -2(x - 5)^2 + 18....

Digital SAT Math
SAT Math: Line y = -4x + k Intersects Parabola y = 2x² + 8x - 5 at Exactly One Point

Step-by-step solution, fast Desmos shortcuts, and trap distractor analysis for: line y = -4x + k intersects parabola y = 2x^2 + 8x - 5 at ex...

Questions Study Download on the App Store