Solving equations with the distributive property

Summary

Learn how to solve a linear equation by using the distributive property, combining like terms, and isolating the variable. This video provides a step-by-step example and verification of the solution.

Highlights

Solving for X00:03:36

Solve for x by dividing both sides of the equation by -21. This reveals that x = -1.

Verifying the Solution00:04:18

Substitute x = -1 back into the original equation to verify the solution. Evaluate both sides of the equation separately to confirm they yield the same result. The left side becomes 6 and the right side becomes 6, confirming x = -1 as the correct solution.

Applying the Distributive Property00:00:15

Begin by removing parentheses using the distributive property. Multiply -1 by (9x - 6) and 3 by (4x + 6). This transforms the equation into -9 - 9x + 6 = 12x + 18.

Combining Like Terms00:01:08

Combine the constant terms on the left side of the equation: -9 and +6. This simplifies the left side to -9x - 3, resulting in the equation -9x - 3 = 12x + 18.

Gathering X Terms00:01:54

Move all x terms to one side of the equation. Subtract 12x from both sides of the equation to get all x terms on the left. This yields -21x - 3 = 18.

Gathering Constant Terms00:02:56

Move all constant terms to the other side of the equation. Add 3 to both sides to isolate the x terms on the left. This simplifies the equation to -21x = 21.