Solving and Understanding Equations

What does it mean to "solve an equation" in algebra?

• To change the unknown values into known numbers.

• To find out what the unknown values are.

• To make the equation look simpler.

• To use only addition and subtraction.

An equation is compared to a balance scale. What happens if you add weight to only one side of a balance scale?

• The scale will stay balanced.

• The scale will tip.

• The weight will disappear.

• The other side will automatically get heavier.

What is the most important rule to remember when changing an equation to keep it balanced?

• Only change one side of the equation at a time.

• Make the exact same change to both sides of the equation.

• Always add numbers to both sides.

• Always subtract numbers from both sides.

To solve the equation x + 7 = 15, what operation should you perform to get 'x' by itself on one side?

• Add 7 to both sides.

• Subtract 7 from both sides.

• Multiply by 7 on both sides.

• Divide by 7 on both sides.

After solving an equation, how can you check if your answer for 'x' is correct?

• Ask a friend to solve it.

• Replace 'x' in the original equation with your answer and see if it's true.

• Solve the equation again using a different method.

• Look up the answer in a textbook.

If you have the equation 40 = 25 + x, what is the value of x?

• 65

• 15

• 25

• 40

To solve the equation x - 5 = 16, what operation should you perform to get 'x' by itself?

• Subtract 5 from both sides.

• Add 5 to both sides.

• Multiply by 5 on both sides.

• Divide by 5 on both sides.

What is the value of x in the equation 10 = x - 32?

• 22

• 32

• 42

• 10

Which arithmetic operation does NOT have the commutative property, meaning the order of numbers changes the result?

• Addition

• Subtraction

• Multiplication

• Division

To solve the equation 12 - x = 5, what is a good first step to avoid a negative unknown?

• Subtract 12 from both sides.

• Subtract 5 from both sides.

• Add x to both sides.

• Add 5 to both sides.