Question

Solve the equation for x. As you solve, justify the steps. Please help me out. -(3x - 12) = 9x - 4

Answer 1

`x=(4)/(3)`

Explanation:

`-\left(3x-12\right)=9x-4`

Distribute the negative sign to both 3x and -12:

`-\left(3x\right)-\left(-12\right)=9x-4`

Remove brackets: (Double negative = Positive)

`-3x+12=9x-4`

Subtract 12 from both sides:

`-3x+12-12=9x-4-12`

`-3x=9x-16`

Subtract 9x from both sides:

`-3x-9x=9x-16-9x`

`-12x=-16`

Divide both sides by -12:

`(-12x)/(-12)=(-16)/(-12)`

`x=(4)/(3)`