Question

Can somebody please help me with this equation I am so confused n-3=2n+17

Answer 1

n = -20.

Explanation:

n-3=2n+17

The objective is to place terms in 'n' one side of the '=' and numbers on the other side.

First we could subtract n from both sides of the = :-

n - n - 3 = 2n - n + 17

- so the n on the left disappears and 2n - n simplifies to n.

-3 = n + 17

Next we bring the 17 to the left side by subtracting 17 to both sides:

-3 - 17 = n + 17 - 17

(the 17 on the right disappears) so-

-20 = n

So the solution is n = -20.

The thing to remember when dealing with equations is whatever the operation on one side is you have to do the same on the other side.

- similar to a chemical balance.

Answer 2

n=-20

Explanation:

add 3 to both sides

n-3=2n+17

n-3+3=2n+17+3

then you simplyfy the expression

n-3+3=2n+17+3

n=2n+20

subtract 2n from both sides

n=2n+20

n-2n=2n+20-2n