Question

Solve the equation −14(x – 26) = –200 for x.

Answer 1

First plug in the -200 in as x
Then distribute the -14 to the -200 and the -26
Two negatives turn into a positive so -14 times -200 equals 2800 and then -14 times -26 is 364
So 2800 + 364 equals 3164

Answer 2

`x=-26`

Explanation:

First, apply the distributive property to the left side of the equation:

A(B + C) = AB + AC

`-14(x - 26) = -200`

`-14x + (-14)(26) = -200`

Next, multiply (-14)(26) to get -364.

`-14x - 364 = -200`

Then, isolate x by adding 364 to both sides.

`-14x=-200 + 364`

Finally, divide both sides by -14.

`-14x \, = \,364\\\overline{\: -14\ } \ \ \ \ \overline{-14}`

`x=-26`