Question

Which of the following sentences could not be used to represent the equation x−5=−10?

A) Five less than a number is negative ten.
B) If a number is decreased by five, the result is negative ten.
C) A number subtracted from five is equal to negative ten.
D) A number less five equals negative ten.

Answer 1

The sentence that does not properly represent the equation x - 5 = -10 is 'C) A number subtracted from five is equal to negative ten,' as it implies the equation is 5 - x = -10.

Step-by-step explanation:

The equation x - 5 = -10 can be represented by various sentences, which describe the mathematical operation or relationship between the numbers and variables involved. Now, let's evaluate the provided sentences:

• A) Five less than a number is negative ten.
• B) If a number is decreased by five, the result is negative ten.
• C) A number subtracted from five is equal to negative ten.
• D) A number less five equals negative ten.

Both sentences A, B, and D are correct descriptions for x - 5 = -10. However, sentence C is incorrect because it suggests that the equation should be 5 - x = -10, indicating that x is subtracted from 5, not the other way around.