How to Subtract 4 from Both Sides

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 131 views

Introduction

Solving multistep linear equations is a crucial skill in mathematics, particularly in algebra. These equations involve multiple steps to isolate the variable, and each step requires careful consideration of the equation's structure. In this study, we will explore the process of solving multistep linear equations, focusing on the first step.

What are Multistep Linear Equations?

Multistep linear equations are equations that involve multiple operations to isolate the variable. These equations typically involve addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division, and may also include fractions and decimals. The goal of solving a multistep linear equation is to isolate the variable, which is the value that we are trying to find.

The Equation: $\frac{2}{3} x + 4 = 8$

Let's consider the equation $\frac{2}{3} x + 4 = 8$ . This equation involves a fraction and a constant term, making it a multistep linear equation. Our goal is to isolate the variable $x$ .

The First Step: Isolating the Variable

To isolate the variable $x$ , we need to get rid of the constant term $4$ on the left-hand side of the equation. We can do this by subtracting $4$ from both sides of the equation. This is the first step in solving the equation.

Why Subtract 4 from Both Sides?

Subtracting $4$ from both sides of the equation is the first step because it allows us to isolate the term involving the variable $x$ . By subtracting $4$ from both sides, we are effectively removing the constant term from the left-hand side of the equation, leaving us with the term involving the variable $x$ .

How to Subtract 4 from Both Sides

To subtract $4$ from both sides of the equation, we need to follow the order of operations (PEMDAS):

Subtract $4$ from the left-hand side of the equation: $\frac{2}{3} x + 4 - 4 = 8 - 4$
Simplify the left-hand side of the equation: $\frac{2}{3} x = 4$
Simplify the right-hand side of the equation: $4 = 4$

The Result of the First Step

After subtracting $4$ from both sides of the equation, we are left with the equation $\frac{2}{3} x = 4$ . This is the result of the first step in solving the equation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the first step in solving the multistep linear equation $\frac{2}{3} x + 4 = 8$ is to subtract $4$ from both sides of the equation. This allows us to isolate the term involving the variable $x$ , making it easier to solve the equation. By following the order of operations and simplifying the equation, we can isolate the variable $x$ and find its value.

Additional Examples

Here are a few additional examples of multistep linear equations:

$\frac{3}{4} x - 2 = 5$
$2x + 3 = 11$
$\frac{1}{2} x + 2 = 7$

In each of these examples, we need to follow the same steps to isolate the variable $x$ . By subtracting the constant term from both sides of the equation, we can isolate the term involving the variable $x$ and solve the equation.

Tips and Tricks

Here are a few tips and tricks to help you solve multistep linear equations:

Always follow the order of operations (PEMDAS)
Simplify the equation as much as possible
Isolate the variable $x$ by subtracting the constant term from both sides of the equation
Check your work by plugging the solution back into the original equation

Q&A: Solving Multistep Linear Equations

Q: What is the first step in solving a multistep linear equation? A: The first step in solving a multistep linear equation is to isolate the variable by subtracting the constant term from both sides of the equation.

Q: Why do we need to isolate the variable? A: We need to isolate the variable to find its value. By isolating the variable, we can determine the solution to the equation.

Q: How do we isolate the variable? A: We isolate the variable by subtracting the constant term from both sides of the equation. This allows us to get rid of the constant term and leave us with the term involving the variable.

Q: What is the order of operations (PEMDAS)? A: The order of operations (PEMDAS) is a set of rules that tells us which operations to perform first when we have multiple operations in an equation. The order of operations is:

Parentheses: Evaluate expressions inside parentheses first.
Exponents: Evaluate any exponential expressions next.
Multiplication and Division: Evaluate any multiplication and division operations from left to right.
Addition and Subtraction: Finally, evaluate any addition and subtraction operations from left to right.

Q: How do we simplify an equation? A: We simplify an equation by combining like terms and eliminating any unnecessary operations. For example, if we have the equation $2x + 3x = 5$ , we can simplify it by combining the like terms: $5x = 5$ .

Q: What is the difference between a linear equation and a multistep linear equation? A: A linear equation is an equation that can be written in the form $ax + b = c$ , where $a$ , $b$ , and $c$ are constants. A multistep linear equation is a linear equation that involves multiple steps to isolate the variable.

Q: How do we check our work when solving a multistep linear equation? A: We check our work by plugging the solution back into the original equation. If the solution satisfies the equation, then we know that we have found the correct solution.

Q: What are some common mistakes to avoid when solving multistep linear equations? A: Some common mistakes to avoid when solving multistep linear equations include:

Not following the order of operations (PEMDAS)
Not simplifying the equation
Not isolating the variable
Not checking the work

Q: How can we practice solving multistep linear equations? A: We can practice solving multistep linear equations by working through examples and exercises. We can also use online resources, such as math websites and apps, to practice solving multistep linear equations.

Q: What are some real-world applications of multistep linear equations? A: Multistep linear equations have many real-world applications, including:

Finance: Multistep linear equations can be used to calculate interest rates and investment returns.
Science: Multistep linear equations can be used to model population growth and chemical reactions.
Engineering: Multistep linear equations can be used to design and optimize systems.

Conclusion

In conclusion, solving multistep linear equations requires careful attention to detail and a thorough understanding of the order of operations (PEMDAS). By following the steps outlined in this article, you can become proficient in solving multistep linear equations and tackle even the most challenging problems. Remember to practice regularly and to check your work to ensure that you are finding the correct solution.