1600SAT Logo All SAT Skills
    Advanced MathHard

    Nonlinear functions

    Understand exponential, quadratic, and other nonlinear functions including their graphs, key features, and real-world applications.

    Sample SAT Problem

    A population doubles every 3 years. If it starts at 500, what is it after 9 years?

    Show SolutionHide Solution

    Step-by-Step Solution

    After 9 years = 3 doublings: 500 × 2³ = 500 × 8 = 4,000.

    Key Tips from Pamela

    • Vertex form y = a(x − h)² + k gives you the vertex directly.
    • Exponential growth: y = a(1 + r)ˣ; decay: y = a(1 − r)ˣ.
    • The axis of symmetry of a parabola is x = −b/(2a).

    Still stuck on nonlinear functions?

    Send me your exact problem. I'll write out the solution by hand and email it to you — completely free.

    Send Me Your Problem