Digital SAT Math

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

2026-09-09 5 min read
• Direct Answer / Key Takeaway

For y = 3x^2 - bx + 12 to intersect the x-axis at exactly one point, the discriminant must be zero: (-b)^2 - 4(3)(12) = 0 => b^2 - 144 = 0 => b = 12 (since b > 0). Correct Option: B (12).

Exact Question Text

In the $xy$-plane, the graph of the equation $y = 3x^2 - bx + 12$, where $b$ is a constant, intersects the $x$-axis at exactly one point. If $b > 0$, what is the value of $b$?
- A) 6
- B) 12
- C) 24
- D) 144

Step-by-Step Solution

  1. Condition for 1 intersection: $\Delta = b^2 - 4ac = 0$.
  2. $(-b)^2 - 4(3)(12) = 0 \implies b^2 - 144 = 0 \implies b = 12$ (given $b > 0$).
  3. Correct Answer: B (12)

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