Question

A number decreased by 18 is equal to the product of the number and 7.

Answer 1

Hi there! The answer is x = - 3

A number decreases by 18 can be written as

`x - 18`

The product of the number and 7 can be written as

`7 * x = 7x`

We get the following equation

`x - 18 = 7x`

Now subtract x from both sides.

`- 18 = 6x`

Switch sides

`6x = - 18`

Divide both sides by 6.

`x = - 18 / 6 = - 3`

Therefore, the answer is x = -3

Answer 2

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Define x:
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Let the number be x

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Construct Equation :
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x- 18 = 7x

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Take away x from both sides :
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-18 = 7x - x

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Combine like terms :
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-18 = 6x

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Switch sides :
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6x = -18

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Divide by 6 on both sides :
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x = -3

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Answer; The number is -3.
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