Question

Solve for x: two fifths(x − 2) = 4x.

Answer 1

x = -
`(2)/(9)`

Explanation:

Given

`(2)/(5)`(x - 2) = 4x

Multiply both sides by 5 to clear the fraction

2(x - 2) = 20x ← distribute left side

2x - 4 = 20x ( subtract 20x from both sides )

- 18x - 4 = 0 ( add 4 to both sides )

- 18x = 4 ( divide both sides by - 18 )

x =
`(4)/(-18)` = -
`(2)/(9)`

Answer 2

x = -2/9.

Explanation:

2/5(x - 2) = 4x Distributing the 2/5 over the parentheses:

2/5x - 4/5 = 4x

2/5 x - 4x = 4/5

Multiply through by 5 to get rid of the fractions:

2x - 20x = 4

-18x = 4

x = 4/-18 = -2/9.