Solving Equations using Distribution

Some equations involve many steps. What do you think would be the first step in this problem?
3(x+2)+5x=6

The first step would be to distribute the 3.

Here is the order you want to use when solving longer equations like this one:

1) Distribute
2) Combine like terms
3) Move number added to the variable
4) Move number multiplied by the variable


Let's finish the problem above

3(x+2)+5x=10

3x+6+5x=10

8x+6=10

8x+6-6=10-6

8x=4





Notice we followed the proper order. Let's do one more example:

5(x-1)+2x=-8

5x-5+2x=-8

7x-5=-8

7x-5+5=-8+5

7x=-3





These are not difficult, but you do have to be careful in your work and just take them one step at a time.

Practice:Solve the following equations.

1) 3(x+1)+4x=2

2) 2(y-4)-9y=6

3) -4(x-8)+x=3

4) 3n+2(n-1)=-5

5) 4=7(x+2)+2x

Answers: 1) 2) y=-2 3) 4) 5)

Related Links:
Math
Algebra
Factors