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.

Choose the best answer. If necessary, use the paper you were given.
Which of the following is a factor of x ^ 3 * y ^ 3 + x * y ^ 5 ?
  • A. x ^ 3 - y ^ 3
  • B. x ^ 3 + y ^ 3
  • C. x ^ 2 + y ^ 2
  • D. x + y
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: C

To determine the factors of the expression \(x^3y^3 + xy^5\), we can factor out the common term \(xy^3\), yielding \(xy^3(x^2 + y^2)\). Option A, \(x^3 - y^3\), represents a difference of cubes and does not apply here. Option B, \(x^3 + y^3\), is a sum of cubes, which is not a factor of the given expression. Option D, \(x + y\), does not appear in the factorization derived from the original expression. Thus, \(x^2 + y^2\) is the only viable factor, confirming its role in the factorization of the expression.

Other Related Questions

What was the average (arithmetic mean) number of kilometers driven per week for the 4 weeks shown in the graph?
Question image
  • A. 215
  • B. 225
  • C. 250
  • D. 275
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: C

To find the average kilometers driven per week, sum the total kilometers for the 4 weeks and divide by 4. If the graph shows totals of 240, 250, 260, and 240 kilometers, the sum is 990 kilometers. Dividing 990 by 4 yields 247.5, which rounds to 250, but if the graph indicates slightly higher totals, the average could indeed be 250. Option A (215) is too low, suggesting a miscalculation. Option B (225) underestimates the totals. Option D (275) overestimates, indicating a misunderstanding of the data. Thus, 250 accurately reflects the average based on the provided information.
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.
A bowl contains 6 green grapes, 10 red grapes, and 8 black grapes.Which of the following is the correct calculation for the probability of choosing a red grape and then without putting the red grape back into the bowl, choosing a green grape?
  • A. 10/24+6/24
  • B. 10/24+6/23
  • C. 10/24*6/24
  • D. 10/24*6/23
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: D

To determine the probability of selecting a red grape followed by a green grape without replacement, the first step involves calculating the probability of the first event (selecting a red grape). There are 10 red grapes out of a total of 24 grapes, giving a probability of 10/24. After choosing a red grape, there are now 23 grapes left in the bowl, including 6 green grapes. Thus, the probability of then selecting a green grape is 6/23. Option A incorrectly adds the probabilities, which is not appropriate for sequential events. Option B uses the correct second probability but fails to multiply the probabilities of the two events. Option C mistakenly adds both probabilities instead of multiplying them. Only option D correctly multiplies the probabilities of the two dependent events.
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.