Question

What is the first step when solving this equation? 5(4x – 1.5x) + 12 = 4x – 2

Answer 1

First step is "Solve the parenthesis". It means subtract 1.5x from 4x.

Explanation:

The given equation is

`5(4x-1.5x)+12=4x-2`

We need to find the first step o solve this equation.

Step 1: Solve the parenthesis.

`5(2.5x)+12=4x-2`

Step 2: Multiply.

`12.5x+12=4x-2`

Step 3: Isolate variable terms on left side.

`12.5x-4x=-12-2`

`8.5x=-14`

Step 4. Divide both sides by 8.5.

`x=(-14)/(8.5)`

`x\approx -1.647`

Therefore, the firs step is "Solve the parenthesis".

Answer 2

Complete the equation in the parenthesis, 4x - 1.5x