Solve: 2(a-4)-(3a+1) = 0
Answer
a = -9
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Step-by-Step Breakdown
- Expand and simplify the left-hand side: 2(a-4)-(3a+1) = -a - 9
- Expand and simplify the right-hand side: 0 = 0
- Move every term to one side so the equation reads "...= 0": -a - 9 = 0
- This is a linear equation of the form aa+b=0, with a=-1 and b=-9.
- Solve for a: a = -b/a = -(-9)/-1 = -9
Theory & Definitions
A linear equation in one unknown can always be rearranged into the form aa+b=0 (a≠0), which has exactly one solution: a = -b/a.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the solution to 2(a-4)-(3a+1) = 0?
a = -9.