Answer:
x = 1/5
Explanation:
To solve, simplify the equation, then isolate "x". Start with the distributive property, where you multiply the number outside the brackets with each number inside the bracket. Isolate "x" by bringing all the other numbers to the right side on the equal sign. When moving a number, do its reverse operation to the whole equation.
-5(x-3) = 14 Distribute. Multiply -5 by "x", subtract -5 times 3.
(-5)x - (-5)3 = 14 Multiply -5 and 3
(-5)x - (-15) = 14 Two negatives make a positive
(-5)x + 15 = 14 Remove brackets around -5
-5x + 15 = 14 Start isolating
-5x + 15 - 15 = 14 - 15 Subtract 15 from both sides
-5x = -1 Left side: 15 cancelled out. Right side: 14-15 = -1
-5x/-5 = -1/-5 Divide both sides by -5.
x = 1/5 Solved for "x"
Check your answer by substituting "x" with the answer you found:
-5(x - 3) = 14
-5((
) - 3) = 14 Change "x" to 1/5.
-5((
) -
) = 14 Make 5 the common denominator
-5(
-
) = 14 Multiply the fractions across
-5(
) = 14 Combined the fractions on top of the same denominator
-5(
) = 14 Simplify numerator
= 14 Multiply by combining into the numerator
= 14 Divide the top by the bottom of the fraction
14 = 14 Same answer on both sides
LS = RS Left side equals right side
Therefore the answer is correct.