Not distributing the coefficient

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 75 views

Introduction

Linear equations are a fundamental concept in mathematics, and solving them is a crucial skill for students to master. In this article, we will focus on solving a specific type of linear equation, namely the equation $3(x+4)=36$ . We will break down the solution step by step, using a clear and concise approach that is easy to follow.

What is a Linear Equation?

A linear equation is an equation in which the highest power of the variable (in this case, x) is 1. Linear equations can be written in the form $ax + b = c$ , where a, b, and c are constants. In the equation $3(x+4)=36$ , we have a linear equation with a coefficient of 3 and a constant term of 4.

Step 1: Distribute the Coefficient

To solve the equation $3(x+4)=36$ , we need to distribute the coefficient 3 to the terms inside the parentheses. This means that we multiply 3 by each term inside the parentheses, which gives us:

3x + 12 = 36

Step 2: Subtract 12 from Both Sides

Next, we need to isolate the variable x by subtracting 12 from both sides of the equation. This gives us:

3x = 36 - 12

3x = 24

Step 3: Divide Both Sides by 3

Finally, we need to solve for x by dividing both sides of the equation by 3. This gives us:

x = \frac{24}{3}

x = 8

Conclusion

In this article, we solved the linear equation $3(x+4)=36$ using a step-by-step approach. We distributed the coefficient, subtracted 12 from both sides, and finally divided both sides by 3 to solve for x. The solution to the equation is x = 8.

Why is this Important?

Solving linear equations is an essential skill in mathematics, and it has many real-world applications. For example, in physics, linear equations are used to describe the motion of objects, while in economics, they are used to model the behavior of markets. In addition, solving linear equations is a fundamental skill that is required for more advanced mathematical concepts, such as algebra and calculus.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When solving linear equations, there are several common mistakes to avoid. These include:

Not distributing the coefficient: Failing to distribute the coefficient to the terms inside the parentheses can lead to incorrect solutions.
Not subtracting the constant term: Failing to subtract the constant term from both sides of the equation can lead to incorrect solutions.
Not dividing both sides by the coefficient: Failing to divide both sides of the equation by the coefficient can lead to incorrect solutions.

Tips and Tricks

When solving linear equations, there are several tips and tricks that can help. These include:

Use a systematic approach: Use a systematic approach to solve the equation, such as distributing the coefficient, subtracting the constant term, and dividing both sides by the coefficient.
Check your work: Check your work by plugging the solution back into the original equation.
Use a calculator: Use a calculator to check your work and to ensure that you have the correct solution.

Conclusion

Introduction

In our previous article, we discussed how to solve linear equations using a step-by-step approach. In this article, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about solving linear equations.

Q: What is a linear equation?

A: A linear equation is an equation in which the highest power of the variable (in this case, x) is 1. Linear equations can be written in the form $ax + b = c$ , where a, b, and c are constants.

Q: How do I solve a linear equation?

A: To solve a linear equation, you need to follow these steps:

Distribute the coefficient to the terms inside the parentheses.
Subtract the constant term from both sides of the equation.
Divide both sides of the equation by the coefficient.

Q: What is the difference between a linear equation and a quadratic equation?

A: A linear equation is an equation in which the highest power of the variable (in this case, x) is 1. A quadratic equation, on the other hand, is an equation in which the highest power of the variable is 2. For example, the equation $x^2 + 4x + 4 = 0$ is a quadratic equation.

Q: How do I know if an equation is linear or quadratic?

A: To determine if an equation is linear or quadratic, you need to look at the highest power of the variable. If the highest power is 1, the equation is linear. If the highest power is 2, the equation is quadratic.

Q: What is the coefficient in a linear equation?

A: The coefficient in a linear equation is the number that is multiplied by the variable (in this case, x). For example, in the equation $3x + 4 = 5$ , the coefficient is 3.

Q: How do I find the solution to a linear equation?

A: To find the solution to a linear equation, you need to follow these steps:

Distribute the coefficient to the terms inside the parentheses.
Subtract the constant term from both sides of the equation.
Divide both sides of the equation by the coefficient.

Q: What is the difference between a linear equation and an inequality?

A: A linear equation is an equation in which the highest power of the variable (in this case, x) is 1. An inequality, on the other hand, is a statement that compares two expressions and indicates whether one is greater than, less than, or equal to the other. For example, the statement $x + 2 > 3$ is an inequality.

Q: How do I solve a linear inequality?

A: To solve a linear inequality, you need to follow these steps:

Add or subtract the same value to both sides of the inequality.
Multiply or divide both sides of the inequality by the same value.

Conclusion

In conclusion, solving linear equations is an essential skill in mathematics, and it has many real-world applications. By following a step-by-step approach and avoiding common mistakes, you can solve linear equations with confidence. Remember to use a systematic approach, check your work, and use a calculator to ensure that you have the correct solution.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When solving linear equations, there are several common mistakes to avoid. These include:

Not distributing the coefficient: Failing to distribute the coefficient to the terms inside the parentheses can lead to incorrect solutions.
Not subtracting the constant term: Failing to subtract the constant term from both sides of the equation can lead to incorrect solutions.
Not dividing both sides by the coefficient: Failing to divide both sides of the equation by the coefficient can lead to incorrect solutions.

Tips and Tricks

When solving linear equations, there are several tips and tricks that can help. These include:

Use a systematic approach: Use a systematic approach to solve the equation, such as distributing the coefficient, subtracting the constant term, and dividing both sides by the coefficient.
Check your work: Check your work by plugging the solution back into the original equation.
Use a calculator: Use a calculator to check your work and to ensure that you have the correct solution.