Math Problem Statement

Heidi solved the equation 3(x + 4) + 2 = 2 + 5(x - 4). Her steps are shown, and the user needs to justify each step.

Solution

To solve this question, let’s go through each of Heidi's steps in solving the equation and provide justifications for each.

The equation is:

3(x+4)+2=2+5(x4)3(x + 4) + 2 = 2 + 5(x - 4)

Step-by-Step Justification:

  1. Step 1: 3x+12+2=2+5x203x + 12 + 2 = 2 + 5x - 20

    • Justification: This step involves Distributive Property. Heidi distributed 33 to both xx and 44 on the left side, and 55 to both xx and 4-4 on the right side.
  2. Step 2: 3x+14=5x183x + 14 = 5x - 18

    • Justification: This step is Combining Like Terms. Heidi combined 12+212 + 2 to get 1414 on the left side and combined 2202 - 20 to get 18-18 on the right side.
  3. Step 3: 14=2x1814 = 2x - 18

    • Justification: This step involves Subtracting 3x3x from Both Sides. Heidi moved 3x3x from the left side to the right by subtracting it from both sides, simplifying 5x3x5x - 3x to 2x2x.
  4. Step 4: 32=2x32 = 2x

    • Justification: This step is Adding 18 to Both Sides. Heidi added 1818 to both sides to isolate terms involving xx.
  5. Step 5: 16=x16 = x

    • Justification: This step is Dividing Both Sides by 2. Heidi divided both sides by 22 to solve for xx.

These justifications explain how Heidi arrived at each step in her solution.

Would you like further details or explanations on any part of the solution?


Here are 5 related questions to expand understanding:

  1. How would the solution change if the constants in the equation were different?
  2. What is the importance of following the order of operations in solving equations?
  3. How can you check if the solution for xx is correct in the original equation?
  4. What is the distributive property, and why is it important in solving equations?
  5. Can this problem be solved by a different method, such as graphing?

Tip: When solving equations, always check each step to ensure all operations are correct, as small mistakes can lead to incorrect solutions.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Algebra
Linear Equations
Equation Solving

Formulas

Distributive property: a(b + c) = ab + ac

Theorems

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Suitable Grade Level

Grades 7-9