Final answer:
To solve for 'a' in the given equation, distribute the numbers into the parentheses, combine like terms, and then divide by the coefficient of 'a'. The solution to the equation is a = 48.
Step-by-step explanation:
We are asked to solve for a in the equation 6((2/3)a - 4) - 8(3 + 1/2)a = -a.
First, we distribute the 6 into the parentheses:
6(2/3)a - 6(4) - 8(3 + 1/2)a = -a
4a - 24 - (24 + 4a) = -a
Now, we simplify and group like terms:
4a - 24 - 24 - 4a = -a
-48 = -a
To solve for a, we multiply both sides by -1:
a = 48.
So, the solution to the equation is a = 48.