Multi Step Variables on both sides

Front

What is a variable in an equation?

Back

A symbol, often a letter, that represents an unknown value in an equation.

Front

What does it mean to isolate a variable?

Back

To manipulate an equation to get the variable on one side and all other terms on the other side.

Front

What is the first step in solving the equation 5x + 15 = 10x - 40?

Back

Subtract 5x from both sides to begin isolating the variable.

Front

Solve: 5x + 15 = 10x - 40

Back

x = 11

Front

What is the distributive property?

Back

A property that states a(b + c) = ab + ac, used to simplify expressions.

Front

How do you apply the distributive property in the equation -8x - 8 + 3(x - 2)?

Back

Distribute 3 to both x and -2: -8x - 8 + 3x - 6.

Front

Solve: -8x - 8 + 3(x - 2) = -3x + 2

Back

x = -8

Front

What does it mean to combine like terms?

Back

To add or subtract terms that have the same variable raised to the same power.

Front

Solve: -17n - 8 + n = 24

Back

n = -2

Front

What is the purpose of checking your solution in an equation?

Back

To verify that the solution satisfies the original equation.