Question

Solve: -3x + 12 = -18

Answer 1

x=2

Explanation:

-3x+12=-18

-3x=-18+12

-3x=-6

x=-6/-3

x=2

Answer 2

x=10

Explanation:

We are given the equation:

`-3x+12= -18`

and asked to solve for x. Therefore, we must isolate x on one side of the equation.

12 is being added to -3x. The inverse of addition is subtraction. Subtract 12 from both sides of the equation.

`-3x+12-12= -18 -12`

`-3x= -18-12`

`-3x=-30`

x is being multiplied by -3. The inverse of multiplication is division. Divide both sides of the equation by -3.

`-3x/3=-30/-3`

`x= -30/-3`

`x=10`

Let's check our solution. Plug 10 in for x and solve.

`-3x+12=-18`

`-3(10)+12=-18`

Multiply -3 and 10.

`-30+12=-18`

Add 12 to -30.

`-18=-18`

This checks out, so we know our solution is correct.

The solution -3x+12=-18 is x=10.