Table of contents
- 0. Review of Algebra4h 16m
- 1. Equations & Inequalities3h 18m
- 2. Graphs of Equations43m
- 3. Functions2h 17m
- 4. Polynomial Functions1h 44m
- 5. Rational Functions1h 23m
- 6. Exponential & Logarithmic Functions2h 28m
- 7. Systems of Equations & Matrices4h 6m
- 8. Conic Sections2h 23m
- 9. Sequences, Series, & Induction1h 19m
- 10. Combinatorics & Probability1h 45m
1. Equations & Inequalities
Linear Equations
3:28 minutes
Problem 51
Textbook Question
Solve each equation for x. ax+b=3(x-a)
Verified step by step guidance
1
Start by expanding the right side of the equation: \( ax + b = 3x - 3a \).
Next, move all terms involving \( x \) to one side of the equation. Subtract \( 3x \) from both sides: \( ax - 3x + b = -3a \).
Factor out \( x \) from the left side: \( (a - 3)x + b = -3a \).
Isolate \( x \) by subtracting \( b \) from both sides: \( (a - 3)x = -3a - b \).
Finally, solve for \( x \) by dividing both sides by \( a - 3 \): \( x = \frac{-3a - b}{a - 3} \).
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Key Concepts
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.
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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.
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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.
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