Solve for the unknown number

Front

What is the process to solve for an unknown number in an equation?

Back

To solve for an unknown number, isolate the variable on one side of the equation by performing inverse operations (addition, subtraction, multiplication, or division) to both sides.

Front

What is the inverse operation of addition?

Back

The inverse operation of addition is subtraction.

Front

What is the inverse operation of subtraction?

Back

The inverse operation of subtraction is addition.

Front

If you have the equation x + 5 = 12, how do you find x?

Back

Subtract 5 from both sides: x = 12 - 5, so x = 7.

Front

In the equation x - 3 = 9, what is the first step to solve for x?

Back

Add 3 to both sides to isolate x: x = 9 + 3, so x = 12.

Front

What is the value of x in the equation 18 - x = 10?

Back

To find x, subtract 10 from 18: x = 18 - 10, so x = 8.

Front

How do you solve the equation x + 6 = 10?

Back

Subtract 6 from both sides: x = 10 - 6, so x = 4.

Front

What is the solution to the equation 2 + x = 7?

Back

Subtract 2 from both sides: x = 7 - 2, so x = 5.

Front

What is a variable in an equation?

Back

A variable is a symbol (often x, y, or z) that represents an unknown number in an equation.

Front

What does it mean to isolate a variable?

Back

To isolate a variable means to get the variable alone on one side of the equation, making it easier to solve.