Solving Multi-Step Linear Equations
We sometimes need more than two operations to solve alinear equation. Useinverse operationsto undo each operation in reverse order.
To solve the equation, we need more than two operations.
By the Identity Property,.
Combine the like terms.
Undo the addition. Subtractfrom each side.
Simplify.
Undo the multiplication. Divide each side by.
Simplify.
We have solved the equation.
Example:
Solve. Check the solution.
Solution
Use thedistributive lawon the left side of the equation.
Subtractfrom each side and simplify.
Undo the addition. Subtractfrom each side.
Undo the multiplication. Divide each side by.
Simplify.
To check the solution, substituteforin the equation.
Simplify.