Answer:
x = 41
Step-by-step explanation:
To solve this problem, we want to find the value of 'x' by isolating it (separating 'x' from all other numbers).
First, simplify the expression by using the <u>distributive property</u>, where you multiply the number outside the brackets with each term inside the brackets.
Then isolate 'x' by doing reverse operations (on both sides) for every number that is on the same side as 'x'. Reverse operations are opposites (addition and subtraction, multiplication and division) and "cancel out" a number, which "moves" it to the other side.
7(x - 5) = 252 Use the distributive property
7x - 35 = 252 Result of 7 times x and 7 times -5
7x - 35 + 35 = 252 + 35 Add 35 to both sides
7x = 252 + 35 -35+35 on the left side cancelled out. Simplify right side
7x = 287 Continue to isolate 'x'
7x/7 = 287/7 Divide both sides by 7
x = 287/7 Left side cancelled out to be 'x'. Simplify the right side
x = 41 Answer
Check your answer:
Substitute 'x' for 41 in the original equation. Then, make sure that the equation is still balanced. Keep in mind BEDMAS order (brackets, exponents, division, multiplication, addition, subtraction).
7(x - 5) = 252
7(41 - 5) = 252 Simplify inside the brackets first
7(36) = 252 Multiply
252 = 252 Same answer
LS = RS
Since left side (LS) equals (=) right side (RS), the equation is still balanced and we got the correct value for 'x'.
