7)
The given equation is expressed as
0.75(x + 24) = 6 + 0.5(x - 4)
We would open the bracket by multiplying the terms inside the bracket by the term outside. We have
0.75x + 18 = 6 + 0.5x - 2
Collecting like terms, we have
0.75x - 0.5x = 6 - 2 - 18
0.25x = - 14
x = - 14/0.25
x = - 56