Question

Solve negative a minus three eighths equals one fourth for a.​

Answer 1

a = -3/5

Equation:

-a -3/4 = 1/4a

Explanation:

1) Add a to both sides of the equation.

1/4a + a = 5/4a or 1.25a

For our purposes, we'll use 5/4a.

-3/4 = 5/4a

2) Multiply 4/5 by both sides of the equation.

-3/4 · 4/5 = -12/20 or -3/5

a = -3/5

Answer 2

-5/8 (fraction)

Explanation:

-a - 3/8 = 1/4

Add a to both sides so a is positive (not needed technically but makes it easier to solve)

-3/8 = 1/4 + a

Subtract 1/4 on both sides so a is by itself. (Turn 1/4 into 2/8 so it's easier to subtract.)

-5/8 = a