Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Linear Equations
A linear equation is an algebraic expression that represents a straight line when graphed. It typically takes the form ax + b = c, where a, b, and c are constants. Understanding how to manipulate these equations is essential for solving for the variable, in this case, x.
Recommended video:
Categorizing Linear Equations
Distributive Property
The distributive property states that a(b + c) = ab + ac. This property is crucial when simplifying expressions that involve parentheses. In the given equation, applying the distributive property will help eliminate the parentheses and combine like terms, making it easier to isolate x.
Recommended video:
Multiply Polynomials Using the Distributive Property
Isolating the Variable
Isolating the variable involves rearranging the equation to get the variable (x) on one side and the constants on the other. This process often includes adding, subtracting, multiplying, or dividing both sides of the equation. Mastery of this technique is vital for solving equations effectively.
Recommended video:
Equations with Two Variables