Question

HELP PLZZ!!!Circle the step where the error has occurred. Explain why it is an error.

Given 2(10 − 13x) + 9x = −34x + 60
Step 1: Distribute 20 − 26x + 9x = −34x + 60
Step 2: Combine like Terms 20 − 17x = −34x + 60
Step 3: Subtraction Property of Equality −17x = −34x + 40
Step 4: Addition Property of Equality −51x = 40
Step 5: Division Property of Equality = −51/40

Answer 1

Answer: The error is in step 4; the terms weren't added properly

The addition property of equality is used. We add 34x to both sides to go from this

-17x = -34x + 40

to this

17x = 40

note how the left side is not -51x. This is because 34+(-17) = 34-17 = 17; instead of -34-17 = -51.

After we get to 17x = 40, we divide both sides by 17 to get x = 40/17