Solving Equations with Variables on Both Sides

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 are variables in an equation?

Back

Variables are symbols (often letters) that represent unknown values in mathematical expressions or equations.

Front

What does it mean to have variables on both sides of an equation?

Back

It means that the variable appears in expressions on both the left and right sides of the equation.

Front

How do you isolate a variable in an equation?

Back

To isolate a variable, you perform operations to get the variable on one side of the equation and the constants on the other side.

Front

What is the first step in solving the equation 13 − 4x = 1 − x?

Back

The first step is to add 4x to both sides to eliminate the variable from the left side.

Front

What is the solution to the equation 13 − 4x = 1 − x?

Back

The solution is x = 4.

Front

How do you combine like terms in an equation?

Back

You combine like terms by adding or subtracting the coefficients of the same variable or constant terms.

Front

What is the solution to the equation −14 + 6b + 7 − 2b = 1 + 5b?

Back

The solution is b = -8.

Front

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

Back

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