Question

Which is the most likely first step needed to solve this equation?

99x – 15 = 45

A. Multiply both sides by 99.
B. Subtract 15 from both sides.
C. Add 15 to both sides.
D. Divide both sides by 99.

Answer 1

Choice C: Add 15 to both sides.

Explanation:

Given:

99x – 15 = 45

Aim:

To Find the first step.

Solution:

• 99x – 15 = 45

The first step will be Add 15 to both sides:

• 99x-15+15 = 45+15
• 99x + 0 = 65
• 99x = 60

Choice C is accurate.

`\rule{225pt}2pt`

EXTRA:

Let's solve the equation further.

Then transpose 99 to the RHS:

• x = 60/99
• x = 20/33

Answer 2

C. Add 15 to both sides

Explanation:

Given equation:

99x – 15 = 45

To solve:

Step 1: Add 15 to both sides:

⇒ 99x – 15 + 15 = 45 + 15

⇒ 99x = 60

Step 2: Divide both sides by 99:

⇒ 99x ÷ 99 = 60 ÷ 99

⇒ x = 60/99

⇒ x = 20/33