Solve: 3(a-5) = -10
Answer
a = 1.6666666667
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Step-by-Step Breakdown
- Expand and simplify the left-hand side: 3(a-5) = 3a - 15
- Expand and simplify the right-hand side: -10 = -10
- Move every term to one side so the equation reads "...= 0": 3a - 5 = 0
- This is a linear equation of the form aa+b=0, with a=3 and b=-5.
- Solve for a: a = -b/a = -(-5)/3 = 1.6666666667
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 3(a-5) = -10?
a = 1.6666666667.