simplify expression or solve equation
please show steps
4(x-7)+(-5x)=-10
Hi,
To simplify an expression such as 4(x-7)+(-5x) = -10 you should approach it in steps, which I will illustrate below:
| 4(x - 7) + (-5x) = -10 | | Given equation |
| 4x - 28 + (-5x) = -10 | | Distribute multiplication of 4 over the sum in parentheses** |
| 4x + (-5x) = -10 + 28 | | Add 28 to both sides to get only terms with x on the left |
| 4x - 5x = 28 - 10 | | Rearrange and remove brackets to simplify |
| -1x = 18 | | Combine like terms |
| x = -18 | | Divide both sides by -1 |
**Always remember to distribute multiplication over both terms, not just the first one! And always keep order of operations in mind.
Hope this helps,
Leeanne