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Solving a first degree equation in one unknown

A linear equation in one unknown, or first degree equation in one unknown, is any equation in the form of
ax + b = 0 where a 0

To solve this type of equation, simply isolate the unknown.

Example 1

Solve the equation 5x - 10 = 0

Solution

5x - 10 = 0
5x = 10
x = 10/5
x = 2

Example 2

Solve the equation 3x + 4 = 5x - 2

Solution

3x + 4 = 5x - 2
3x - 5x = -4 -2
-2x = -6
x = -6/-2
x = 3

Example 3

Solve 4(a - 2) = 2 - 12a

Solution

4(a - 2) = 2 - 12a
4a - 8 = 2 - 12a
4a + 12a = 2 + 8
16a = 10
a = 10/16
a = 5/8

Example 4

Solve x - 2 = x + 1

Solution

x - 2 = x + 1
x - x = 1 + 2
= 3

Example 5

x = 3

Solution

x = 3 X 6
x = 18

Before proceeding to the questions, ensure that you have a pencil and some paper handy.


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