Solving Linear Equations with Variables on Both Sides

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 99 views

Introduction

Linear equations are a fundamental concept in algebra, and solving them is a crucial skill for students to master. In this article, we will focus on solving linear equations with variables on both sides. We will explore the steps involved in solving such equations and provide examples to illustrate the process.

What are Linear Equations?

A linear equation is an equation in which the highest power of the variable(s) is 1. In other words, it is an equation that can be written in the form:

ax + b = c

where a, b, and c are constants, and x is the variable.

Solving Linear Equations with Variables on Both Sides

When solving linear equations with variables on both sides, we need to isolate the variable on one side of the equation. To do this, we can use the following steps:

Combine like terms: Combine any like terms on both sides of the equation.
Add or subtract the same value to both sides: Add or subtract the same value to both sides of the equation to eliminate the variable on one side.
Multiply or divide both sides by the same value: Multiply or divide both sides of the equation by the same value to eliminate the variable on one side.

Example 1: Solving a Linear Equation with Variables on Both Sides

Let's consider the following linear equation:

6 - 3/4x + 1/3 = 1/2x + 5

To solve this equation, we need to eliminate the fractions. We can do this by multiplying both sides of the equation by the least common multiple (LCM) of the denominators, which is 12.

Which number can each term of the equation be multiplied by to eliminate the fractions before solving?

The correct answer is B. 12.

Step-by-Step Solution

To solve the equation, we will follow the steps outlined above.

Combine like terms: Combine any like terms on both sides of the equation.

6 - 3/4x + 1/3 = 1/2x + 5

There are no like terms to combine.

Add or subtract the same value to both sides: Add or subtract the same value to both sides of the equation to eliminate the variable on one side.

We can add 3/4x to both sides of the equation to get:

6 + 1/3 = 1/2x + 5 + 3/4x

Multiply or divide both sides by the same value: Multiply or divide both sides of the equation by the same value to eliminate the variable on one side.

We can multiply both sides of the equation by 12 to eliminate the fractions:

72 + 4 = 6x + 60 + 9x

Combine like terms:

76 = 15x + 60

Subtract 60 from both sides:

16 = 15x

Divide both sides by 15:

x = 16/15

Conclusion

Solving linear equations with variables on both sides requires careful attention to detail and a systematic approach. By following the steps outlined above and using the correct techniques, we can solve such equations and find the value of the variable. In this article, we have explored the steps involved in solving linear equations with variables on both sides and provided examples to illustrate the process.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When solving linear equations with variables on both sides, there are several common mistakes to avoid:

Not combining like terms: Failing to combine like terms on both sides of the equation can lead to incorrect solutions.
Not adding or subtracting the same value to both sides: Failing to add or subtract the same value to both sides of the equation can lead to incorrect solutions.
Not multiplying or dividing both sides by the same value: Failing to multiply or divide both sides of the equation by the same value can lead to incorrect solutions.

Practice Problems

To practice solving linear equations with variables on both sides, try the following problems:

Solve the equation: 2x + 3 = 5x - 2
Solve the equation: x/2 + 2 = 3x - 1
Solve the equation: 2x - 3 = x + 2

Answer Key

x = 1
x = 5/3
x = 5/3

Conclusion

Introduction

In our previous article, we explored the steps involved in solving linear equations with variables on both sides. We provided examples and explained the techniques used to solve such equations. In this article, we will answer some frequently asked questions (FAQs) related to solving linear equations with variables on both sides.

Q&A

Q: What is the first step in solving a linear equation with variables on both sides?

A: The first step in solving a linear equation with variables on both sides is to combine like terms on both sides of the equation.

Q: How do I eliminate fractions in a linear equation?

A: To eliminate fractions in a linear equation, you can multiply both sides of the equation by the least common multiple (LCM) of the denominators.

Q: What is the LCM of a set of numbers?

A: The LCM of a set of numbers is the smallest number that is a multiple of each of the numbers in the set.

Q: How do I add or subtract the same value to both sides of a linear equation?

A: To add or subtract the same value to both sides of a linear equation, you can add or subtract the value to both sides of the equation.

Q: What is the difference between adding and subtracting the same value to both sides of a linear equation?

A: Adding the same value to both sides of a linear equation is the same as subtracting the negative of the value from both sides of the equation.

Q: How do I multiply or divide both sides of a linear equation by the same value?

A: To multiply or divide both sides of a linear equation by the same value, you can multiply or divide both sides of the equation by the value.

Q: What is the difference between multiplying and dividing both sides of a linear equation by the same value?

A: Multiplying both sides of a linear equation by the same value is the same as dividing both sides of the equation by the reciprocal of the value.

Q: Can I use a calculator to solve a linear equation with variables on both sides?

A: Yes, you can use a calculator to solve a linear equation with variables on both sides. However, it is always a good idea to check your answer by plugging it back into the original equation.

Q: What are some common mistakes to avoid when solving linear equations with variables on both sides?

A: Some common mistakes to avoid when solving linear equations with variables on both sides include:

Not combining like terms on both sides of the equation
Not adding or subtracting the same value to both sides of the equation
Not multiplying or dividing both sides of the equation by the same value
Not checking your answer by plugging it back into the original equation

Q: How do I check my answer when solving a linear equation with variables on both sides?

A: To check your answer when solving a linear equation with variables on both sides, you can plug your answer back into the original equation and see if it is true.

Q: What is the importance of solving linear equations with variables on both sides?

A: Solving linear equations with variables on both sides is an important skill in algebra and is used in a variety of real-world applications, including science, engineering, and economics.

Conclusion

Solving linear equations with variables on both sides is a crucial skill in algebra and is used in a variety of real-world applications. By following the steps outlined in this article and using the correct techniques, you can solve such equations and find the value of the variable. We hope this article has been helpful in answering your questions and providing you with a better understanding of solving linear equations with variables on both sides.

Practice Problems

To practice solving linear equations with variables on both sides, try the following problems:

Solve the equation: 2x + 3 = 5x - 2
Solve the equation: x/2 + 2 = 3x - 1
Solve the equation: 2x - 3 = x + 2

Answer Key

x = 1
x = 5/3
x = 5/3

Additional Resources

For more information on solving linear equations with variables on both sides, check out the following resources:

Khan Academy: Solving Linear Equations with Variables on Both Sides
Mathway: Solving Linear Equations with Variables on Both Sides
Wolfram Alpha: Solving Linear Equations with Variables on Both Sides