Hello there!
An equation to model this situation is 3n - 50 = -11
The unknown number has a value of 13.
Okay, so let's start by breaking down the question - we'll use <em>n</em> to model the unknown number.
-50 added to three times an unknown number equals -11?
This means we are adding -50 to something else. (We can use + -50 or - 50 since they are the same thing, I'll use - 50 since it's easier to follow.)
-50 added to three times an unknown number equals -11?
This phrase can be modeled as 3n. This is what we are taking 50 from, so we can add that to the end of the equation so far.
3n - 50
-50 added to three times an unknown number equals -11?
This can means the equation equals -11. We can model it as = -11. Now, let's add it to our equation.
3n - 50 = -11
Now, solve for n.
You want to start by canceling -50 out on the left side, so n is on it's own side, and to do this you add 50 to both sides.
3n - 50 + 50 = -11 + 50
3n = 39
To finish isolating n, divide both sides of the equation by 3.
3÷3n = 39÷3
n = 13.
I hope this helps and have a great day!
