work with. Here you could even pick x = 1 because it’s clear that when x = 1, all
the answer choices have different values.
If x = 1, then the radius of the base of the cone is 2, and the radius of the
sphere is 3.
So what does h have to be to give the cone a volume of 36π?
When x = 1, h turns out to be 27. Now plug x = 1 into the answer choices, and
you’ll find that only (E) gives you 27. This alternative method is still somewhat
algebraic, but this way the algebra’s a lot less convoluted.
BRUSH UP ON YOUR ALGEBRA
You can’t escape algebra! The Mathematics subject tests are both full
of algebra. Make sure your algebra skills are in peak condition by test
day.