Question

Solve for x: |2x + 12| = 18

Answer 1

|2x + 12| = 18

First, break down the problem into 2 equations . / 2x + 12 = 18 and -(2x + 12) = 18
Second, solve the first equation. /
`2x + 12 = 18`
Subtract 12 from both sides. /
`2x = 18 - 12`
Subtract 18 - 16. /
`2x = 6`
Divide both sides by 2. /
`x = (6)/(2)`
Simplify. /
`x = 3`
Third, solve the second equation. / -(2x + 12) = 18
Simplify your brackets. /
`-2x - 12 = 18`
Add 12 to both sides. /
`-2x = 18 + 12`
Add 18 + 12. /
`-2x = 30`
Divide both sides by -2. /
`x = (30)/(-2)`
Simplify. /
`x = -(30)/(2)`
Simplify. /
`x = -15`
Fourth, collect the solutions. /
`x = -15,3`

Answer: x = -15, 3