Math Problem Statement

Solve the absolute value equation: |5x - 8| = -3

Solution

The given equation is 5x8=3|5x - 8| = -3.

Let's analyze this step by step:

Key Point:

An absolute value equation is written in the form A=B|A| = B. The absolute value of any expression, by definition, represents a non-negative number. Therefore, it cannot be equal to a negative value.

In this case, the equation asks for the absolute value 5x8|5x - 8| to be equal to 3-3, which is impossible because the absolute value of any number or expression cannot be negative.

Conclusion:

There is no solution to this equation. The correct answer is E. No solution.

Would you like further clarification or additional examples?

Related Questions:

  1. What would be the solution if the right-hand side was a positive number, say 5x8=3|5x - 8| = 3?
  2. How do you solve a general absolute value equation A=B|A| = B when B0B \geq 0?
  3. What happens if you remove the absolute value signs from 5x8=3|5x - 8| = -3? Would there be a solution then?
  4. Can an absolute value equation ever have more than two solutions?
  5. How would you solve 5x8=0|5x - 8| = 0?

Tip:

Always check if the value on the right side of the absolute value equation is negative. If it is, the equation has no solution!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Absolute Value
Equations

Formulas

|A| = B, where B >= 0

Theorems

The absolute value of any number is always non-negative

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 7-9