Algebra 1 : How to solve two-step equations

Study concepts, example questions & explanations for Algebra 1

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Example Questions

Example Question #301 : How To Solve Two Step Equations

Solve for \(\displaystyle p\).

\(\displaystyle \frac{4p}{5}+8 = 4\)

Possible Answers:

\(\displaystyle -5\)

\(\displaystyle 8\)

\(\displaystyle -8\)

None of the other answers

\(\displaystyle 5\)

Correct answer:

\(\displaystyle -5\)

Explanation:

Subtract 8 from each side of the equation.

\(\displaystyle \frac{4p}{5}=-4\)

Multiply each side of the equation by \(\displaystyle \frac{5}{4}\) (the inverse of \(\displaystyle \frac{4}{5}\)).

\(\displaystyle p=\frac{-4}{1}\times\frac{5}{4}=\frac{-20}{4}=-5\)

Example Question #302 : How To Solve Two Step Equations

Solve for \(\displaystyle x\).

\(\displaystyle 7(x+3)=70\)

Possible Answers:

\(\displaystyle 70\)

\(\displaystyle -7\)

\(\displaystyle \frac{7}{6}\)

\(\displaystyle 49\)

\(\displaystyle 7\)

Correct answer:

\(\displaystyle 7\)

Explanation:

\(\displaystyle 7(x+3)=70\)

Distribute 7 to the term in parentheses

\(\displaystyle 7x+21=70\)

Subtract 21 from each side of the equation

\(\displaystyle 7x=49\)

Divide each side by 7

\(\displaystyle x=7\)

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