Solving Equations

Front

What is the first step in solving a linear equation?

Back

The first step is to isolate the variable on one side of the equation by performing inverse operations.

Front

How do you combine like terms in an equation?

Back

You add or subtract the coefficients of the same variable terms to simplify the equation.

Front

What does it mean to isolate a variable in an equation?

Back

Isolating a variable means to manipulate the equation so that the variable is alone on one side, making it easier to solve.

Front

What is the distributive property in algebra?

Back

The distributive property states that a(b + c) = ab + ac, allowing you to multiply a single term by two or more terms inside parentheses.

Front

How do you solve for a variable when it appears on both sides of an equation?

Back

You can move all terms involving the variable to one side by adding or subtracting them from both sides.

Front

What is the solution to an equation?

Back

The solution to an equation is the value of the variable that makes the equation true.

Front

What is the purpose of checking your solution in an equation?

Back

Checking your solution ensures that the value you found satisfies the original equation.

Front

What is a linear equation?

Back

A linear equation is an equation that makes a straight line when graphed, typically in the form ax + b = c.

Front

What does it mean to have no solution in an equation?

Back

No solution means that there is no value for the variable that can satisfy the equation, often resulting in a contradiction.

Front

What is the significance of the equal sign in an equation?

Back

The equal sign indicates that the expressions on both sides of the equation are equivalent.