Solving Equations and Literal Equations

Front

What is an equation?

Back

An equation is a mathematical statement that asserts the equality of two expressions, typically containing variables.

Front

What does it mean to solve an equation?

Back

To solve an equation means to find the value(s) of the variable(s) that make the equation true.

Front

What is a literal equation?

Back

A literal equation is an equation that involves two or more variables and is solved for one variable in terms of the others.

Front

What is the first step in solving the equation 12 - 4x - x = 2?

Back

Combine like terms to simplify the equation.

Front

How do you isolate a variable in an equation?

Back

To isolate a variable, you perform inverse operations to get the variable alone on one side of the equation.

Front

What is the solution to the equation 4x - 7 = 21?

Back

x = 7.

Front

What is the solution to the equation 4x + 3 = -5?

Back

x = -2.

Front

What is the first step in solving the equation 10 - 3y = 4?

Back

Subtract 10 from both sides.

Front

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

Back

To verify that the solution satisfies the original equation.

Front

What does it mean to combine like terms?

Back

Combining like terms means to add or subtract terms that have the same variable raised to the same power.