Nonlinear functions SAT question

Choice B is correct. The value of $f(144)$ is the value of $f(x)$ when $x=144$. It's given that the function $f$ is defined by $f(x)=4+\sqrt{x}$. Substituting $144$ for $x$ in this equation yields $f(144)=4+\sqrt{144}$. Since the positive square root of $144$ is $12$, it follows that this equation can be rewritten as $f(144)=4+12$, or $f(144)=16$. Therefore, the value of $f(144)$ is $16$.

Choice A is incorrect and may result from conceptual or calculation errors.

Choice C is incorrect. This is the value of $f(1,296)$, not $f(144)$.

Choice D is incorrect. This is the value of $f(5,184)$, not $f(144)$.