Multistep Equations

Front

What is a multistep equation?

Back

A multistep equation is an equation that requires more than one step to solve. It often involves combining like terms, using the distributive property, and isolating the variable.

Front

What is the first step to solve the equation 2b = -16?

Back

Divide both sides by 2 to isolate b. This gives b = -8.

Front

How do you solve the equation 5(x-3)=40?

Back

First, distribute 5 to both terms in the parentheses: 5x - 15 = 40. Then, add 15 to both sides: 5x = 55. Finally, divide by 5: x = 11.

Front

What is the solution to the equation 3c + 5 = 23?

Back

Subtract 5 from both sides to get 3c = 18. Then, divide by 3 to find c = 6.

Front

What does it mean to isolate a variable in an equation?

Back

Isolating a variable means rearranging the equation so that the variable is on one side by itself, making it easier to solve.

Front

What is the distributive property?

Back

The distributive property states that a(b + c) = ab + ac. It allows you to multiply a single term by two or more terms inside a set of parentheses.

Front

How do you check your solution for an equation?

Back

Substitute the solution back into the original equation to see if both sides are equal.

Front

What is the solution to the equation 5x - 15 = 40?

Back

Add 15 to both sides to get 5x = 55, then divide by 5 to find x = 11.

Front

What is the solution to the equation 2a + 3 = 15?

Back

Subtract 3 from both sides to get 2a = 12, then divide by 2 to find a = 6.

Front

What is the purpose of combining like terms in an equation?

Back

Combining like terms simplifies the equation, making it easier to solve.