Math Problem Statement

Solve the equation |3x - 4| = x + 2.

Solution

The given equation is:

3x4=x+2|3x - 4| = x + 2

To solve this, we handle the absolute value equation by considering the two cases for 3x4|3x - 4|:

Case 1: 3x4=x+23x - 4 = x + 2

  1. Solve for xx: 3xx=2+43x - x = 2 + 4 2x=6    x=32x = 6 \implies x = 3

Case 2: 3x4=(x+2)3x - 4 = -(x + 2)

  1. Simplify: 3x4=x23x - 4 = -x - 2 3x+x=2+43x + x = -2 + 4 4x=2    x=124x = 2 \implies x = \frac{1}{2}

Verify Both Solutions

To verify:

  1. For x=3x = 3: 3(3)4=94=5,3+2=5(valid).|3(3) - 4| = |9 - 4| = 5, \quad 3 + 2 = 5 \quad \text{(valid)}.

  2. For x=12x = \frac{1}{2}: 3(12)4=1.54=2.5,12+2=2.5(valid).|3\left(\frac{1}{2}\right) - 4| = |1.5 - 4| = 2.5, \quad \frac{1}{2} + 2 = 2.5 \quad \text{(valid)}.

Final Answer:

The solutions are: x=3andx=12.x = 3 \quad \text{and} \quad x = \frac{1}{2}.

Would you like a detailed explanation of any step?

Related Questions:

  1. How do you verify absolute value equations graphically?
  2. What is the general method for solving absolute value equations?
  3. How do you determine whether an absolute value equation has no solution?
  4. Can absolute value equations result in inequalities? If so, how?
  5. How do you extend this solution method to systems of equations?

Tip:

Always verify potential solutions for absolute value equations to ensure they satisfy the original equation, as extraneous solutions may arise.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Algebra
Absolute Value Equations

Formulas

|a| = b implies a = b or a = -b

Theorems

Properties of Absolute Value

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 8-10