Math 7 (Period 4)

Solving Equations With Variables on Both Sides 4.5

Some equations such as 2x + 3 = 3x + 5 have variables on both sides of the equal side. You will need to collect like variables on the SAME side!!

2x + 3 = 3x + 5

It is really your choice which other the variables you move Most students like to keep  the variable’s coefficient positive, so in this case you would subtract 2x from both sides

3 = 3x -2x+ 5

3 = x + 5

now you would subtract 5 from both sides… make sure to show each step

3-5 = x + 5 -5  ( would be how you would show it horizontally.)

-2 = x

So the solution is x = -2

Using the Distributive Property

Solve

8n – 4 = 3(2n + 8)

Use the Distributive Property

8n -4 = 6n + 24

Subtract 6n from both sides

8n -4 -6n = 6n + 24 -6n

2n – 4 = 24

Add4 to both sides

2n – 4 + 4 = 24 + 4

2n = 28

Divide both sides by 2

2n/2= 28/2

n = 14