Question

When solving negative one over three (x − 15) = −4, what is the correct sequence of operations?

Multiply each side by negative one over three , subtract 15 from each side
Multiply each side by −3, add 15 to each side
Multiply each side by negative one over three , add 15 to each side
Multiply each side by 3, subtract 15 from each side

Answer 1

-1/3(x - 15) = -4

step 1 : multiply both sides by -3, step 2 : add 15 to both sides

because when u multiply both sides by -3, this cancels out the -1/3 on the left side leaving u with : x - 15 = -4 * -3.....x - 15 = 12.....and then u would add 15 to both sides....giving u : x = 12 + 15.....x = 27