Question

To model the problem containing an unknown number, translate the statement into an equation. Sixteen is five less than a number. Which steps would you take to translate the statement? .

Answer 1

21; steps are included:

Explanation:

lets put this unknown number as a variable (n)

now lets write the equation out: (n=the unknown number)

16 = n-5

To keep the equation balanced we add 5 to both sides:

16+5=n-5+5

21=n

Now that means the unknown value is 21

Hope this helped

Answer 2

16 = x - 5

Explanation:

We start with 16. We then hear "is", which means equals. So we put an equal sign. Next, we hear "five less then", which means we will subtract 5 from something. We then learn the something will be an unknown number, which we will represent with the variable x. Now we write subtraction of 5 from x. 16 = x - 5