Question

What value of x makes the equation –7x + 4 – 3x = –2x – 12 true?

Answer 1

x=2

Explanation:

I know the answer is x=2.

First, I set up the equation.

-7x+4-3x=-2x-12

Next, I added like values on each side.

-10x+4=-2x-12

Then, I added 10x to both sides.

4=8x-12

Then, I added 12 to both sides.

16=8x

Next, I divided 8 on both sides.

2=x

To make sure 2 is the true value of x, I inserted 2 to all values of x in the equation. -7(2)+4-3(2)=-2(2)-12. Both sides of the equation are -16. So, 2 is the real value of x in this equation.

Answer 2

x=2

Explanation:

To solve this equation combine like terms and move all like terms to the same side. Then, isolate the variable.

First, combine like terms that are on the same side,

-10x+4=-2x-12

Next, move -10x to the other side by adding it to both sides,

4=8x-12

Then, add 12 to both sides as well,

16=8x

Finally, isolate x by dividing the whole equation by 8,

2=x