Solving Equations with Variables on Both Sides

Front

What is an equation?

Back

An equation is a mathematical statement that asserts the equality of two expressions, typically containing variables.

Front

What does it mean to solve an equation?

Back

To solve an equation means to find the value(s) of the variable(s) that make the equation true.

Front

What are variables in an equation?

Back

Variables are symbols (usually letters) that represent unknown values in mathematical expressions or equations.

Front

What does it mean to have variables on both sides of an equation?

Back

It means that the variable appears in expressions on both the left and right sides of the equation.

Front

How do you isolate a variable in an equation?

Back

To isolate a variable, you perform inverse operations to get the variable alone on one side of the equation.

Front

What is the first step in solving an equation with variables on both sides?

Back

The first step is to simplify both sides of the equation if necessary, and then move all terms containing the variable to one side.

Front

What is the solution to the equation 2a - 9 = 5a?

Back

The solution is a = -3.

Front

How do you check if your solution to an equation is correct?

Back

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

Front

What is the solution to the equation 5 - 2t = 3t?

Back

The solution is t = 1.

Front

What is the solution to the equation 8w - 8 = -4x + 16?

Back

The solution is w = 2.