Not distributing the coefficients correctly

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 105 views

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Introduction

Linear equations are a fundamental concept in mathematics, and solving for the missing value in such equations is a crucial skill to master. In this article, we will explore how to solve for the missing value in a linear equation, using the given equation $ y - 4 = -2(x + 3) $ as an example. We will also provide a step-by-step guide on how to find the missing value for the point $ (-3, \square) $.

Understanding the Equation

The given equation is $ y - 4 = -2(x + 3) $. This is a linear equation in the slope-intercept form, where the slope is $ -2 $ and the y-intercept is $ 4 $. To solve for the missing value, we need to isolate the variable $ y $.

Step 1: Distribute the Negative 2

The first step in solving the equation is to distribute the negative 2 to the terms inside the parentheses.

y - 4 = -2(x + 3)
y - 4 = -2x - 6

Step 2: Add 4 to Both Sides

Next, we add 4 to both sides of the equation to isolate the variable $ y $.

y - 4 + 4 = -2x - 6 + 4
y = -2x - 2

Finding the Missing Value

Now that we have the equation in the slope-intercept form, we can use it to find the missing value for the point $ (-3, \square) $. To do this, we substitute $ x = -3 $ into the equation and solve for $ y $.

y = -2(-3) - 2
y = 6 - 2
y = 4

Therefore, the missing value for the point $ (-3, \square) $ is $ 4 $.

Conclusion

Solving for the missing value in a linear equation is a straightforward process that involves distributing the coefficients, adding or subtracting the constants, and isolating the variable. By following these steps, we can easily find the missing value for any point on the line. In this article, we used the equation $ y - 4 = -2(x + 3) $ as an example and found the missing value for the point $ (-3, \square) $ to be $ 4 $.

Tips and Tricks

When solving for the missing value, make sure to distribute the coefficients correctly and add or subtract the constants as needed.
Use the slope-intercept form of the equation to isolate the variable $ y $.
Substitute the given value of $ x $ into the equation and solve for $ y $.

Real-World Applications

Solving for the missing value in a linear equation has numerous real-world applications, including:

Physics: When calculating the trajectory of an object, we need to solve for the missing value in the equation of motion.
Engineering: In designing a bridge or a building, we need to solve for the missing value in the equation of stress and strain.
Economics: When analyzing the relationship between two variables, we need to solve for the missing value in the equation of supply and demand.

Common Mistakes

Not distributing the coefficients correctly: Make sure to distribute the coefficients to all terms inside the parentheses.
Not adding or subtracting the constants correctly: Make sure to add or subtract the constants as needed to isolate the variable $ y $.
Not using the slope-intercept form: Make sure to use the slope-intercept form of the equation to isolate the variable $ y $.

Final Thoughts

Solving for the missing value in a linear equation is a fundamental skill that has numerous real-world applications. By following the steps outlined in this article, we can easily find the missing value for any point on the line. Remember to distribute the coefficients correctly, add or subtract the constants as needed, and use the slope-intercept form of the equation to isolate the variable $ y $. With practice and patience, you will become proficient in solving for the missing value in linear equations.

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Introduction

In our previous article, we explored how to solve for the missing value in a linear equation using the given equation $ y - 4 = -2(x + 3) $ as an example. We also provided a step-by-step guide on how to find the missing value for the point $ (-3, \square) $. In this article, we will answer some frequently asked questions about solving for the missing value in a linear equation.

Q&A

Q: What is the first step in solving for the missing value in a linear equation?

A: The first step in solving for the missing value in a linear equation is to distribute the coefficients to all terms inside the parentheses.

Q: How do I know if I have distributed the coefficients correctly?

A: To check if you have distributed the coefficients correctly, make sure to multiply the coefficient by each term inside the parentheses.

Q: What is the slope-intercept form of a linear equation?

A: The slope-intercept form of a linear equation is $ y = mx + b $, where $ m $ is the slope and $ b $ is the y-intercept.

Q: How do I find the missing value for a point on the line?

A: To find the missing value for a point on the line, substitute the given value of $ x $ into the equation and solve for $ y $.

Q: What are some common mistakes to avoid when solving for the missing value in a linear equation?

A: Some common mistakes to avoid when solving for the missing value in a linear equation include not distributing the coefficients correctly, not adding or subtracting the constants correctly, and not using the slope-intercept form of the equation.

Q: How do I know if I have solved for the missing value correctly?

A: To check if you have solved for the missing value correctly, make sure to substitute the given value of $ x $ into the equation and solve for $ y $.

Q: Can I use the slope-intercept form of the equation to solve for the missing value?

A: Yes, you can use the slope-intercept form of the equation to solve for the missing value. Simply substitute the given value of $ x $ into the equation and solve for $ y $.

Q: What are some real-world applications of solving for the missing value in a linear equation?

A: Some real-world applications of solving for the missing value in a linear equation include physics, engineering, and economics.

Tips and Tricks

Make sure to distribute the coefficients correctly and add or subtract the constants as needed.
Use the slope-intercept form of the equation to isolate the variable $ y $.
Substitute the given value of $ x $ into the equation and solve for $ y $.

Common Mistakes

Not distributing the coefficients correctly
Not adding or subtracting the constants correctly
Not using the slope-intercept form of the equation

Final Thoughts

Solving for the missing value in a linear equation is a fundamental skill that has numerous real-world applications. By following the steps outlined in this article and avoiding common mistakes, you can easily find the missing value for any point on the line. Remember to distribute the coefficients correctly, add or subtract the constants as needed, and use the slope-intercept form of the equation to isolate the variable $ y $. With practice and patience, you will become proficient in solving for the missing value in linear equations.

Additional Resources

Khan Academy: Linear Equations
Mathway: Solving Linear Equations
Wolfram Alpha: Linear Equations

Conclusion

Solving for the missing value in a linear equation is a crucial skill that has numerous real-world applications. By following the steps outlined in this article and avoiding common mistakes, you can easily find the missing value for any point on the line. Remember to distribute the coefficients correctly, add or subtract the constants as needed, and use the slope-intercept form of the equation to isolate the variable $ y $. With practice and patience, you will become proficient in solving for the missing value in linear equations.