Final answer:
To solve for x in an equation, identify the unknown and the knowns, select an appropriate equation, substitute the knowns, calculate the solution, and check the answer for reasonableness. When determining the length BC in a scale drawing, use a ratio to express and solve for the unknown length x.
Step-by-step explanation:
How to Solve for x in an Equation and Determine the Length BC
To solve for x in an equation and determine the length BC, one must follow these steps:
- Identify the unknown, which in this case is x.
- Write down all known information. For example, if you are given a scale drawing and have the scale, such as 0.5 inch represents 20 miles, and the scale length, say 8 inches, and you need to find the real length BC.
- Based on the given information, identify the equation to use. If working with a scale drawing, it would be a ratio such as 0.5 inch/20 miles = 8 inches/x miles.
- Enter the known values into the equation and solve for x. Using the ratio method, you would cross-multiply to find x.
- Check your units to ensure they are consistent, and check if your answer is reasonable in terms of scale and length.
After solving the equation, x will be the length BC when used in context with a scale drawing. For a more visually focused example:
- A second ratio might be: 1 inch/2000 miles = 3 inches/x miles
- Again, cross-multiply to solve for x, ensuring units are correct.
- After calculating, x will represent the unknown real length that corresponds to the 3 inches on the scale drawing.
Solving for x always involves identifying the equation, plugging in the known values, performing the calculations, and verifying that the solution makes sense.