Question

Given the equation 5x − 4 = –2(3x + 2), solve for the variable. Explain each step and justify your process.

Answer 1

Problem one: 5x - 4 = -2(3x + 2)
Use the distributive property to calculate what's in the parentheses
5x - 4 = -6x - 4
Add 4 to both sides
5x = -6x
(From here you can say x = 0 but here's a few final steps if you want)
Add 6 x to both sides
11x = 0
Divide both sides by 11
X=0
---------------------------------------------
Problem 2: Megan's solution

Megan correctly distributed the parentheses in her first step
Megan errored when she ADDED 5x to the left side but SUBTRACTED 5x from the right side in her third line
From that error she correctly finished the problem, but due to her error she got the wrong answer
The correct answer is x=11

Answer 2

When you use the Distributive Property, we will find...
5x - 4 = -6x - 4
Eliminate 4 by adding it to both sides.
5x = -6x
Add 6x to both sides and we get 11x = 0.
11x = 0
Divide both sides by 11.

x=0

The only mistake Megan made was when adding 5x with Megan accidentally subtracting 5x from the other side.

For this problem:
3(2x − 4) = 5x − 1
Distribute
6x - 12 = 5x - 1
Add 1 to both sides
6x - 11 = 5x
Subtract 6x from both sides
-11 = -x
Divide both sides by -1.
x = 11.

Hope this helps! Like this answer? Give it a Brainiest reward if so.