Question

Two fewer than a number doubled is the same as the number decreased by 38. if n is "the number," which equation could be used to solve for the number?

Answer 1

   
$\displaystyle \\ \text{We use the following equation:} \\ \\ \frac{n}{2} = n - 38 \\ \\ We solve for n: \\ \\ \frac{n}{2} = n - 38 ~~\Big| \times 2 \\ \\ n = 2 \times n - 2 \times 38 \\ \\ n = 2n - 76 \\ \\ 2n - n = 76 \\ \\ \boxed{n = 76} \\ \\ \text{Verification: } \\ \\ \frac{n}{2} = n - 38 \\ \\ \frac{76}{2} = 76 - 38 \\ \\ \boxed{38 = 38 ~~~ Correct }$