Solving Equations with Variables on Both Sides

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

• Use the distributive property

• Divide both sides by the variable

• Combine like terms

• Add constants to both sides

What should you do after using the distributive property?

• Check your solution

• Multiply both sides by the same number

• Add the same number to both sides

• Simplify the expression on each side

In the first example, what is the smallest variable term?

• 4

• 14

• 2x

• 12x

What is the final solution for the equation 2x - 4 = 12x - 14?

• x = -1

• x = 0

• x = 2

• x = 1

In the second example, what is the result after distributing 2(x - 4)?

• 2x - 8

• 2x - 4

• 2x + 8

• 2x + 4

What is the solution for the equation 2(x - 4) = -2x - 10?

• x = 2

• x = -2

• x = 1/2

• x = -1/2

In the third example, what is the result of combining like terms on the left side?

• 30n

• 20n

• 49n

• 50n

What is the final solution for the equation in the third example?

• n = 19

• n = -19

• n = 0

• n = 1

What does it mean if both sides of an equation are equal after all variables cancel out?

• The equation has no solution

• The equation is an identity

• The equation has infinite solutions

• The equation is invalid

What is the result when solving an equation and you get a statement like 1 = 3?

• The equation has no solution

• The equation is an identity

• The equation has infinite solutions

• The equation is invalid