Solving Equations with Variables on Both Sides

What is the first step in solving a three-step equation?

• Multiply both sides by a common factor

• Identify variable terms and constants

• Divide both sides by the coefficient

• Combine like terms

Why is it important to choose wisely when eliminating a variable term?

• To make the equation more complex

• To ensure the constants are equal

• To avoid using the additive inverse

• To avoid ending up with a zero on one side

What is the result of subtracting 8x from both sides in the given example?

• Negative 5x on the left side

• Positive 5x on the left side

• 0x on the left side

• 0x on the right side

What is the next step after aligning like terms vertically?

• Multiply the variable terms

• Bring down the terms that were not affected

• Subtract the constants

• Add the constants

What is the final value of x in the example where 8x is subtracted?

• 6

• 8

• 12

• -6

What happens if you subtract 11x instead of 8x?

• The equation becomes simpler

• You end up with more work

• The constants cancel out

• The variable term becomes positive

In the example problem, what is the result of subtracting 4n from both sides?

• 2n

• 0n

• 6n

• 4n

How do you handle equations with fractional coefficients?

• Add the fractions directly

• Find a common denominator

• Multiply both sides by the fraction

• Divide both sides by the fraction

What is the result of multiplying both sides by the reciprocal of the fraction?

• The variable term is eliminated

• The denominators cancel out

• The equation becomes more complex

• The constants are equal

What is the final value of x in the example with fractional coefficients?

• 10

• 6

• 8

• 12