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Solving Linear Equations Handout Form 2 CSEC

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0% found this document useful (0 votes)
23 views2 pages

Solving Linear Equations Handout Form 2 CSEC

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© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Solving Linear Equations: Handout

1. Introduction to Linear Equations


A linear equation is an equation that makes a straight line when graphed. It has the form:

ax + b = c

where:

- x is the variable,

- a, b, and c are constants.

2. Steps for Solving Linear Equations


To solve for x (or any variable), the goal is to isolate the variable on one side of the equation.
Here are the general steps:

1. Simplify Both Sides: Combine like terms on each side.


2. Use Inverse Operations: To isolate the variable, use the opposite (inverse) operations for
addition, subtraction, multiplication, or division.
3. Check Your Solution: Substitute the solution back into the original equation to ensure it
satisfies the equation.

3. Types of Linear Equations and Examples

A. One-Step Equations
To solve: Apply one inverse operation.

Example: x + 5 = 12

Step 1: Subtract 5 from both sides.


x = 12 - 5
Answer: x = 7

Example: 4x = 20

Step 1: Divide both sides by 4.


x = 20 / 4
Answer: x = 5

B. Two-Step Equations
To solve: Use two inverse operations.

Example: 2x + 3 = 11
Step 1: Subtract 3 from both sides.
2x = 8
Step 2: Divide both sides by 2.
x=4

C. Equations with Variables on Both Sides


To solve: Move all terms with variables to one side, and constants to the other.

Example: 3x + 4 = x + 10

Step 1: Subtract x from both sides.


2x + 4 = 10
Step 2: Subtract 4 from both sides.
2x = 6
Step 3: Divide both sides by 2.
x=3

D. Word Problem Example


Translate a word problem into an equation.

Problem: If three times a number plus 5 equals 20, find the number.

Step 1: Let the number be x.


Step 2: Write the equation: 3x + 5 = 20.
Step 3: Solve for x:
- Subtract 5 from both sides: 3x = 15
- Divide by 3: x = 5

4. Practice Problems
Solve the following:

1. x - 4 = 10
2. 5x = 25
3. 2x + 6 = 14
4. 4x - 3 = x + 9
5. If twice a number minus 3 equals 7, find the number.

5. Tips for Success


1. Always perform the same operation on both sides of the equation.
2. Double-check your work by plugging your answer back into the original equation.
3. Keep practicing to become more comfortable with different types of equations!

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