Chapter 8 Solving Linear Equations 663

8 SOLVING LINEAR EQUATIONS

Figure 8.1 A Calder mobile is balanced and has several elements on each side. (credit: paurian, Flickr)

Chapter Outline
8.1 Solve Equations Using the Subtraction and Addition Properties of Equality
8.2 Solve Equations Using the Division and Multiplication Properties of Equality
8.3 Solve Equations with Variables and Constants on Both Sides
8.4 Solve Equations with Fraction or Decimal Coefficients

Introduction
Teetering high above the floor, this amazing mobile remains aloft thanks to its carefully balanced mass. Any shift in either
direction could cause the mobile to become lopsided, or even crash downward. In this chapter, we will solve equations by
keeping quantities on both sides of an equal sign in perfect balance.

8.1
Solve Equations Using the Subtraction and Addition Properties of Equality
Learning Objectives
By the end of this section, you will be able to:
Solve equations using the Subtraction and Addition Properties of Equality
Solve equations that need to be simplified
Translate an equation and solve
Translate and solve applications

BE PREPARED : : 8.1 Before you get started, take this readiness quiz.
Solve: n − 12 = 16.
If you missed this problem, review Example 2.33.

BE PREPARED : : 8.2 Translate into algebra ‘five less than x.’

If you missed this problem, review Example 2.24.

BE PREPARED : : 8.3 Is x = 2 a solution to 5x − 3 = 7 ?

If you missed this problem, review Example 2.28.
664 Chapter 8 Solving Linear Equations

We are now ready to “get to the good stuff.” You have the basics down and are ready to begin one of the most important
topics in algebra: solving equations. The applications are limitless and extend to all careers and fields. Also, the skills and
techniques you learn here will help improve your critical thinking and problem-solving skills. This is a great benefit of
studying mathematics and will be useful in your life in ways you may not see right now.
Solve Equations Using the Subtraction and Addition Properties of Equality
We began our work solving equations in previous chapters. It has been a while since we have seen an equation, so we will
review some of the key concepts before we go any further.
We said that solving an equation is like discovering the answer to a puzzle. The purpose in solving an equation is to find
the value or values of the variable that make each side of the equation the same. Any value of the variable that makes the
equation true is called a solution to the equation. It is the answer to the puzzle.

Solution of an Equation

A solution of an equation is a value of a variable that makes a true statement when substituted into the equation.

In the earlier sections, we listed the steps to determine if a value is a solution. We restate them here.

HOW TO : : DETERMINE WHETHER A NUMBER IS A SOLUTION TO AN EQUATION.

Step 1. Substitute the number for the variable in the equation.

Step 2. Simplify the expressions on both sides of the equation.
Step 3. Determine whether the resulting equation is true.
◦ If it is true, the number is a solution.
◦ If it is not true, the number is not a solution.

EXAMPLE 8.1

Determine whether y = 3 is a solution for 4y + 3 = 8y.

4
Solution

Multiply.

Add.

Since y = 3 results in a true equation, 3 is a solution to the equation 4y + 3 = 8y.

4 4

TRY IT : : 8.1
Is y = 2 a solution for 9y + 2 = 6y ?
3

TRY IT : : 8.2
Is y = 2 a solution for 5y − 3 = 10y ?
5

We introduced the Subtraction and Addition Properties of Equality in Solving Equations Using the Subtraction and
Addition Properties of Equality. In that section, we modeled how these properties work and then applied them to solving
equations with whole numbers. We used these properties again each time we introduced a new system of numbers. Let’s
review those properties here.

Subtraction and Addition Properties of Equality

Subtraction Property of Equality

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Chapter 8 Solving Linear Equations 665

For all real numbers a, b, and c, if a = b, then a − c = b − c.

Addition Property of Equality
For all real numbers a, b, and c, if a = b, then a + c = b + c.

When you add or subtract the same quantity from both sides of an equation, you still have equality.
We introduced the Subtraction Property of Equality earlier by modeling equations with envelopes and counters. Figure
8.2 models the equation x + 3 = 8.

Figure 8.2

The goal is to isolate the variable on one side of the equation. So we ‘took away’ 3 from both sides of the equation and
found the solution x = 5.
Some people picture a balance scale, as in Figure 8.3, when they solve equations.

Figure 8.3

The quantities on both sides of the equal sign in an equation are equal, or balanced. Just as with the balance scale,
whatever you do to one side of the equation you must also do to the other to keep it balanced.
Let’s review how to use Subtraction and Addition Properties of Equality to solve equations. We need to isolate the variable
on one side of the equation. And we check our solutions by substituting the value into the equation to make sure we have
a true statement.

EXAMPLE 8.2

Solve: x + 11 = −3.
Solution
To isolate x, we undo the addition of 11 by using the Subtraction Property of Equality.
666 Chapter 8 Solving Linear Equations

Subtract 11 from each side to "undo" the addition.

Simplify.

Check:

Substitute x = −14 .

Since x = −14 makes x + 11 = −3 a true statement, we know that it is a solution to the equation.

TRY IT : : 8.3 Solve: x + 9 = −7.

TRY IT : : 8.4 Solve: x + 16 = −4.

In the original equation in the previous example, 11 was added to the x , so we subtracted 11 to ‘undo’ the addition. In
the next example, we will need to ‘undo’ subtraction by using the Addition Property of Equality.

EXAMPLE 8.3

Solve: m + 4 = −5.
Solution

Subtract 4 from each side to "undo" the addition.

Simplify.

Check:

Substitute m = −9 .

The solution to m − 4 = −5 is m = −1 .

TRY IT : : 8.5 Solve: n − 6 = −7.

TRY IT : : 8.6 Solve: x − 5 = −9.

Now let’s review solving equations with fractions.

EXAMPLE 8.4

Solve: n − 3 = 1.
8 2

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Chapter 8 Solving Linear Equations 667

Solution

Use the Addition Property of Equality.

Find the LCD to add the fractions on the right.

Simplify

Check:

Subtract.

Simplify.

The solution checks.

TRY IT : : 8.7
Solve: p − 1 = 5.
3 6

TRY IT : : 8.8
Solve: q − 1 = 1.
2 6

In Solve Equations with Decimals, we solved equations that contained decimals. We’ll review this next.

EXAMPLE 8.5

Solve a − 3.7 = 4.3.

Solution

Use the Addition Property of Equality.

Add.

Check:

Substitute a = 8 .

Simplify.

The solution checks.

TRY IT : : 8.9 Solve: b − 2.8 = 3.6.

TRY IT : : 8.10 Solve: c − 6.9 = 7.1.

668 Chapter 8 Solving Linear Equations

Solve Equations That Need to Be Simplified

In the examples up to this point, we have been able to isolate the variable with just one operation. Many of the equations
we encounter in algebra will take more steps to solve. Usually, we will need to simplify one or both sides of an equation
before using the Subtraction or Addition Properties of Equality. You should always simplify as much as possible before
trying to isolate the variable.

EXAMPLE 8.6

Solve: 3x − 7 − 2x − 4 = 1.
Solution
The left side of the equation has an expression that we should simplify before trying to isolate the variable.

Rearrange the terms, using the Commutative Property of Addition.

Combine like terms.

Add 11 to both sides to isolate x .

Simplify.

Check.
Substitute x = 12 into the original equation.

The solution checks.

TRY IT : : 8.11 Solve: 8y − 4 − 7y − 7 = 4.

TRY IT : : 8.12 Solve: 6z + 5 − 5z − 4 = 3.

EXAMPLE 8.7

Solve: 3(n − 4) − 2n = −3.

Solution
The left side of the equation has an expression that we should simplify.

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Chapter 8 Solving Linear Equations 669

Distribute on the left.

Use the Commutative Property to rearrange terms.

Combine like terms.

Isolate n using the Addition Property of Equality.

Simplify.

Check.
Substitute n = 9 into the original equation.

The solution checks.

TRY IT : : 8.13 Solve: 5(p − 3) − 4p = −10.

TRY IT : : 8.14 Solve: 4(q + 2) − 3q = −8.

EXAMPLE 8.8

Solve: 2(3k − 1) − 5k = −2 − 7.
Solution
Both sides of the equation have expressions that we should simplify before we isolate the variable.

Distribute on the left, subtract on the right.

Use the Commutative Property of Addition.

Combine like terms.

Undo subtraction by using the Addition Property of Equality.

Simplify.

Check.
Let k = −7.

The solution checks.

670 Chapter 8 Solving Linear Equations

TRY IT : : 8.15 Solve: 4(2h − 3) − 7h = −6 − 7.

TRY IT : : 8.16 Solve: 2(5x + 2) − 9x = −2 + 7.

Translate an Equation and Solve

In previous chapters, we translated word sentences into equations. The first step is to look for the word (or words) that
translate(s) to the equal sign. Table 8.1 reminds us of some of the words that translate to the equal sign.

Equals (=)

is is equal to is the same as the result is gives was will be

Table 8.1

Let’s review the steps we used to translate a sentence into an equation.

HOW TO : : TRANSLATE A WORD SENTENCE TO AN ALGEBRAIC EQUATION.

Step 1. Locate the "equals" word(s). Translate to an equal sign.

Step 2. Translate the words to the left of the "equals" word(s) into an algebraic expression.
Step 3. Translate the words to the right of the "equals" word(s) into an algebraic expression.

Now we are ready to try an example.

EXAMPLE 8.9

Translate and solve: five more than x is equal to 26.

Solution

Translate.

Subtract 5 from both sides.

Simplify.

Check:
Is 26 five more than 21 ?

The solution checks.

TRY IT : : 8.17 Translate and solve: Eleven more than x is equal to 41.

TRY IT : : 8.18 Translate and solve: Twelve less than y is equal to 51.

EXAMPLE 8.10

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Chapter 8 Solving Linear Equations 671

Translate and solve: The difference of 5p and 4p is 23.

Solution

Translate.

Simplify.

Check:

The solution checks.

TRY IT : : 8.19 Translate and solve: The difference of 4x and 3x is 14.

TRY IT : : 8.20 Translate and solve: The difference of 7a and 6a is −8.

Translate and Solve Applications

In most of the application problems we solved earlier, we were able to find the quantity we were looking for by simplifying
an algebraic expression. Now we will be using equations to solve application problems. We’ll start by restating the
problem in just one sentence, assign a variable, and then translate the sentence into an equation to solve. When assigning
a variable, choose a letter that reminds you of what you are looking for.

EXAMPLE 8.11

The Robles family has two dogs, Buster and Chandler. Together, they weigh 71 pounds.
Chandler weighs 28 pounds. How much does Buster weigh?
672 Chapter 8 Solving Linear Equations

Solution

Read the problem carefully.

Identify what you are asked to find, and choose a variable to How much does Buster weigh?
represent it. Let b = Buster's weight

Buster's weight plus Chandler's

Write a sentence that gives the information to find it.
weight equals 71 pounds.

We will restate the problem, and then include the given information. Buster's weight plus 28 equals 71.

Translate the sentence into an equation, using the variable b .

Solve the equation using good algebraic techniques.

Check the answer in the problem and make sure it makes sense.

Is 43 pounds a reasonable weight for a dog? Yes. Does Buster's

weight plus Chandler's weight equal 71 pounds?
?
43 + 28 = 71

71 = 71 ✓

Write a complete sentence that answers the question, "How much

Buster weighs 43 pounds
does Buster weigh?"

TRY IT : : 8.21

Translate into an algebraic equation and solve: The Pappas family has two cats, Zeus and Athena. Together, they
weigh 13 pounds. Zeus weighs 6 pounds. How much does Athena weigh?

TRY IT : : 8.22

Translate into an algebraic equation and solve: Sam and Henry are roommates. Together, they have 68 books.
Sam has 26 books. How many books does Henry have?

HOW TO : : DEVISE A PROBLEM-SOLVING STRATEGY.

Step 1. Read the problem. Make sure you understand all the words and ideas.
Step 2. Identify what you are looking for.
Step 3. Name what you are looking for. Choose a variable to represent that quantity.
Step 4. Translate into an equation. It may be helpful to restate the problem in one sentence with all
the important information. Then, translate the English sentence into an algebra equation.
Step 5. Solve the equation using good algebra techniques.
Step 6. Check the answer in the problem and make sure it makes sense.
Step 7. Answer the question with a complete sentence.

EXAMPLE 8.12

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Chapter 8 Solving Linear Equations 673

Shayla paid $24,575 for her new car. This was $875 less than the sticker price. What was the sticker price of the car?
Solution

What are you asked to find? "What was the sticker price of the car?"

Assign a variable. Let s = the sticker price of the car.

$24,575 is $875 less than the sticker price

Write a sentence that gives the information to find it. $24,575 is $875 less than s

Translate into an equation.

Solve.

Check:

Is $875 less than $25,450 equal to $24,575?

?
25,450 − 875 = 24,575

24,575 = 24,575 ✓

Write a sentence that answers the question. The sticker price was $25,450.

TRY IT : : 8.23

Translate into an algebraic equation and solve: Eddie paid $19,875 for his new car. This was $1,025 less than
the sticker price. What was the sticker price of the car?

TRY IT : : 8.24

Translate into an algebraic equation and solve: The admission price for the movies during the day is $7.75. This
is $3.25 less than the price at night. How much does the movie cost at night?

The Links to Literacy activity, "The 100-pound Problem", will provide you with another view of the topics covered in this
section.

MEDIA : : ACCESS ADDITIONAL ONLINE RESOURCES

• Solving One Step Equations By Addition and Subtraction (http://www.openstax.org/l/24Solveonestep)
• Solve One Step Equations By Add and Subtract Whole Numbers (Variable on Left)
(http://www.openstax.org/l/24SolveByAdd)
• Solve One Step Equations By Add and Subtract Whole Numbers (Variable on Right)
(http://www.openstax.org/l/24AddSubtrWhole)
674 Chapter 8 Solving Linear Equations

8.1 EXERCISES
Practice Makes Perfect
Solve Equations Using the Subtraction and Addition Properties of Equality
In the following exercises, determine whether the given value is a solution to the equation.

1. y = 1 a solution of
Is 2. x=3
Is a solution of 3. Is u = −1 a solution of
3 4 2
4y + 2 = 10y ? 5x + 3 = 9x ? 8u − 1 = 6u ?

4. Is v = −1 a solution of
3
9v − 2 = 3v ?

In the following exercises, solve each equation.

5. x + 7 = 12 6. y + 5 = −6 7. b+1 = 3
4 4

8. a+ 2 = 4 9. p + 2.4 = −9.3 10. m + 7.9 = 11.6

5 5

11. a−3=7 12. m − 8 = −20 13. x−1 =2

3

14. x−1 =4 15. y − 3.8 = 10 16. y − 7.2 = 5

5

17. x − 15 = −42 18. z + 5.2 = −8.5 19. q+3 = 1

4 2

20. p− 2 = 2 21. y− 3 = 3
5 3 4 5

Solve Equations that Need to be Simplified

In the following exercises, solve each equation.
22. c + 3 − 10 = 18 23. m + 6 − 8 = 15 24. 9x + 5 − 8x + 14 = 20

25. 6x + 8 − 5x + 16 = 32 26. −6x − 11 + 7x − 5 = −16 27. −8n − 17 + 9n − 4 = −41

28. 3(y − 5) − 2y = −7 29. 4(y − 2) − 3y = −6 30. 8(u + 1.5) − 7u = 4.9

31. 5(w + 2.2) − 4w = 9.3 32. −5(y − 2) + 6y = −7 + 4 33. −8(x − 1) + 9x = −3 + 9

34. 3(5n − 1) − 14n + 9 = 1 − 2 35. 36. −( j + 2) + 2 j − 1 = 5

2(8m + 3) − 15m − 4 = 3 − 5

37. −(k + 7) + 2k + 8 = 7 38. 6a − 5(a − 2) + 9 = −11 39. 8c − 7(c − 3) + 4 = −16

40. 8(4x + 5) − 5(6x) − x = 53 41.

6(9y − 1) − 10(5y) − 3y = 22

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Chapter 8 Solving Linear Equations 675

Translate to an Equation and Solve

In the following exercises, translate to an equation and then solve.
42. Five more than x is equal to 43. The sum of x and −5 is 33. 44. Ten less than m is −14.
21.

45. Three less than y is −19. 46. The sum of y and −3 is 40. 47. Eight more than p is equal to
52.

48. The difference of 9x and 8x 49. The difference of 5c and 4c 50. The difference of n and 1 is
is 17. is 60. 6
1.
2

51. The difference of f and 1 is 52. The sum of −4n and 5n is 53. The sum of −9m and 10m is
3 −32. −25.
1.
12

Translate and Solve Applications

In the following exercises, translate into an equation and solve.
54. Pilar drove from home to 55. Jeff read a total of 54 pages 56. Pablo’s father is 3 years older
school and then to her aunt’s in his English and Psychology than his mother. Pablo’s mother
house, a total of 18 miles. The textbooks. He read 41 pages in is 42 years old. How old is his
distance from Pilar’s house to his English textbook. How many father?
school is 7 miles. What is the pages did he read in his
distance from school to her aunt’s Psychology textbook?
house?

57. Eva’s daughter is 5 years 58. Allie weighs 8 pounds less 59. For a family birthday dinner,
younger than her son. Eva’s son than her twin sister Lorrie. Allie Celeste bought a turkey that
is 12 years old. How old is her weighs 124 pounds. How much weighed 5 pounds less than the
daughter? does Lorrie weigh? one she bought for Thanksgiving.
The birthday dinner turkey
weighed 16 pounds. How much
did the Thanksgiving turkey
weigh?

60. The nurse reported that 61. Connor’s temperature was 62. Melissa’s math book cost
Tricia’s daughter had gained 4.2 0.7 degrees higher this morning $22.85 less than her art book
pounds since her last checkup and than it had been last night. His cost. Her math book cost $93.75.
now weighs 31.6 pounds. How temperature this morning was
How much did her art book cost?
much did Tricia’s daughter weigh 101.2 degrees. What was his
at her last checkup? temperature last night?

63. Ron’s paycheck this week was

$17.43 less than his paycheck
last week. His paycheck this week
was $103.76. How much was
Ron’s paycheck last week?
676 Chapter 8 Solving Linear Equations

Everyday Math

2 cup of sugar for the cookie 65. Construction Miguel wants to drill a hole for a
64. Baking Kelsey needs
3 5 -inch screw. The screw should be 1 inch larger
8 12
recipe she wants to make. She only has 1 cup of sugar
4 than the hole. Let d equal the size of the hole he
and will borrow the rest from her neighbor. Let s
should drill. Solve the equation d + 1 = 5 to see
equal the amount of sugar she will borrow. Solve the 12 8
equation 1 + s = 2 to find the amount of sugar she what size the hole should be.
4 3
should ask to borrow.

Writing Exercises

66. Is −18 a solution to the equation 3x = 16 − 5x ? 67. Write a word sentence that translates the equation
How do you know? y − 18 = 41 and then make up an application that
uses this equation in its solution.

Self Check

ⓐ After completing the exercises, use this checklist to evaluate your mastery of the objectives of this section.

ⓑ If most of your checks were:

…confidently. Congratulations! You have achieved the objectives in this section. Reflect on the study skills you used so that you
can continue to use them. What did you do to become confident of your ability to do these things? Be specific.
…with some help. This must be addressed quickly because topics you do not master become potholes in your road to success.
In math, every topic builds upon previous work. It is important to make sure you have a strong foundation before you move on.
Whom can you ask for help? Your fellow classmates and instructor are good resources. Is there a place on campus where math
tutors are available? Can your study skills be improved?
…no—I don’t get it! This is a warning sign and you must not ignore it. You should get help right away or you will quickly be
overwhelmed. See your instructor as soon as you can to discuss your situation. Together you can come up with a plan to get you
the help you need.

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Chapter 8 Solving Linear Equations 677

8.2
Solve Equations Using the Division and Multiplication Properties of
Equality
Learning Objectives
By the end of this section, you will be able to:
Solve equations using the Division and Multiplication Properties of Equality
Solve equations that need to be simplified

BE PREPARED : : 8.4 Before you get started, take this readiness quiz.
⎛ ⎞
Simplify: −7⎝ 1 ⎠.
−7
If you missed this problem, review Example 4.28.

BE PREPARED : : 8.5 What is the reciprocal of −3 ?

8
If you missed this problem, review Example 4.29.

BE PREPARED : : 8.6 Evaluate 9x + 2 when x = −3.

If you missed this problem, review Example 3.56.

Solve Equations Using the Division and Multiplication Properties of Equality

We introduced the Multiplication and Division Properties of Equality in Solve Equations Using Integers; The Division
Property of Equality and Solve Equations with Fractions. We modeled how these properties worked using envelopes
and counters and then applied them to solving equations (See Solve Equations Using Integers; The Division Property
of Equality). We restate them again here as we prepare to use these properties again.

Division and Multiplication Properties of Equality

Division Property of Equality: For all real numbers a, b, c, and c ≠ 0, if a = b, then ac = bc .

Multiplication Property of Equality: For all real numbers a, b, c, if a = b, then ac = bc.

When you divide or multiply both sides of an equation by the same quantity, you still have equality.
Let’s review how these properties of equality can be applied in order to solve equations. Remember, the goal is to ‘undo’
the operation on the variable. In the example below the variable is multiplied by 4, so we will divide both sides by 4 to
‘undo’ the multiplication.

EXAMPLE 8.13

Solve: 4x = −28.
Solution
We use the Division Property of Equality to divide both sides by 4.
678 Chapter 8 Solving Linear Equations

Divide both sides by 4 to undo the multiplication.

Simplify.

Check your answer. Let x = −7 .

Since this is a true statement, x = −7 is a solution to 4x = −28.

TRY IT : : 8.25 Solve: 3y = −48.

TRY IT : : 8.26 Solve: 4z = −52.

In the previous example, to ‘undo’ multiplication, we divided. How do you think we ‘undo’ division?

EXAMPLE 8.14

Solve: a = −42.
−7
Solution
Here a is divided by −7. We can multiply both sides by −7 to isolate a.

Multiply both sides by −7 .

Simplify.

Check your answer. Let a = 294 .

TRY IT : : 8.27 b = −24.

Solve:
−6

TRY IT : : 8.28 Solve: c = −16.

−8

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Chapter 8 Solving Linear Equations 679

EXAMPLE 8.15

Solve: −r = 2.
Solution
Remember −r is equivalent to −1r.

Rewrite −r as −1r .

Divide both sides by −1 .

Check.

Substitute r = −2

Simplify.

In Solve Equations with Fractions, we saw that there are two other ways to solve −r = 2.
We could multiply both sides by −1.
We could take the opposite of both sides.

TRY IT : : 8.29 Solve: −k = 8.

TRY IT : : 8.30 Solve: −g = 3.

EXAMPLE 8.16

Solve: 2 x = 18.
3
Solution
Since the product of a number and its reciprocal is 1, our strategy will be to isolate x by multiplying by the reciprocal of
2.
3
680 Chapter 8 Solving Linear Equations

Multiply by the reciprocal of 2 .

3

Reciprocals multiply to one.

Multiply.

Check your answer. Let x = 27

Notice that we could have divided both sides of the equation 2 x = 18 by 2 to isolate x. While this would work,
3 3
multiplying by the reciprocal requires fewer steps.

TRY IT : : 8.31 2 n = 14.

Solve:
5

TRY IT : : 8.32 5 y = 15.

Solve:
6

Solve Equations That Need to be Simplified

Many equations start out more complicated than the ones we’ve just solved. First, we need to simplify both sides of the
equation as much as possible

EXAMPLE 8.17

Solve: 8x + 9x − 5x = −3 + 15.
Solution
Start by combining like terms to simplify each side.

Combine like terms.

Divide both sides by 12 to isolate x.

Simplify.

Check your answer. Let x = 1

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Chapter 8 Solving Linear Equations 681

TRY IT : : 8.33 Solve: 7x + 6x − 4x = −8 + 26.

TRY IT : : 8.34 Solve: 11n − 3n − 6n = 7 − 17.

EXAMPLE 8.18

Solve: 11 − 20 = 17y − 8y − 6y.

Solution
Simplify each side by combining like terms.

Simplify each side.

Divide both sides by 3 to isolate y.

Simplify.

Check your answer. Let y = −3

Notice that the variable ended up on the right side of the equal sign when we solved the equation. You may prefer to take
one more step to write the solution with the variable on the left side of the equal sign.

TRY IT : : 8.35 Solve: 18 − 27 = 15c − 9c − 3c.

TRY IT : : 8.36 Solve: 18 − 22 = 12x − x − 4x.

EXAMPLE 8.19

Solve: −3(n − 2) − 6 = 21.

Solution
Remember—always simplify each side first.
682 Chapter 8 Solving Linear Equations

Distribute.

Simplify.

Divide both sides by -3 to isolate n.

Check your answer. Let n = −7 .

TRY IT : : 8.37 Solve: −4(n − 2) − 8 = 24.

TRY IT : : 8.38 Solve: −6(n − 2) − 12 = 30.

LINKS TO LITERACY

The Links to Literacy activity, "Everybody Wins" will provide you with another view of the topics covered in this section.

MEDIA : : ACCESS ADDITIONAL ONLINE RESOURCES

• Solving One Step Equation by Mult/Div. Integers (Var on Left) (http://www.openstax.org/l/
24OneStepMultiL)
• Solving One Step Equation by Mult/Div. Integers (Var on Right) (http://www.openstax.org/l/
24OneStepMultiR)
• Solving One Step Equation in the Form: −x = −a (http://www.openstax.org/l/24xa)

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Chapter 8 Solving Linear Equations 683

8.2 EXERCISES
Practice Makes Perfect
Solve Equations Using the Division and Multiplication Properties of Equality
In the following exercises, solve each equation for the variable using the Division Property of Equality and check the solution.
68. 8x = 32 69. 7p = 63 70. −5c = 55

71. −9x = −27 72. −90 = 6y 73. −72 = 12y

74. −16p = −64 75. −8m = −56 76. 0.25z = 3.25

77. 0.75a = 11.25 78. −3x = 0 79. 4x = 0

In the following exercises, solve each equation for the variable using the Multiplication Property of Equality and check the
solution.
80. x = 15 81.
z = 14 q
4 2 82. −20 =
−5

83. c = −12 y q
−3 84. = −6 85. = −8
9 6

86. m =5 p 2 y = 18
−12 87. −4 = 88.
−20 3

89. 3 r = 15 90. − 5 w = 40 91. 24 = − 3 x

5 8 4

92. −2 = 1 a 93. −1 q = − 5
5 10 3 6

Solve Equations That Need to be Simplified

In the following exercises, solve the equation.
94. 8a + 3a − 6a = −17 + 27 95. 6y − 3y + 12y = −43 + 28 96. −9x − 9x + 2x = 50 − 2

97. −5m + 7m − 8m = −6 + 36 98. 100 − 16 = 4p − 10p − p 99. −18 − 7 = 5t − 9t − 6t

100. 7n − 3n = 9 + 2 101. 5 q + 1 q = 25 − 3 102. 0.25d + 0.10d = 6 − 0.75

8 4 12 2

103. 0.05p − 0.01p = 2 + 0.24

Everyday Math

104. Balloons Ramona bought 18 balloons for a party. 105. Teaching Connie’s kindergarten class has 24
She wants to make 3 equal bunches. Find the number children. She wants them to get into 4 equal groups.
of balloons in each bunch, b, by solving the equation Find the number of children in each group, g, by
3b = 18. solving the equation 4g = 24.
684 Chapter 8 Solving Linear Equations

106. Ticket price Daria paid $36.25 for 5 children’s 107. Unit price Nishant paid$12.96 for a pack of 12
tickets at the ice skating rink. Find the price of each juice bottles. Find the price of each bottle,b, by
ticket, p, by solving the equation 5p = 36.25. solving the equation 12b = 12.96.

108. Fuel economy Tania’s SUV gets half as many miles 109. Fabric The drill team used 14 yards of fabric to
per gallon (mpg) as her husband’s hybrid car. The SUV make flags for one-third of the members. Find how
gets 18 mpg. Find the miles per gallons, m, of the much fabric, f , they would need to make flags for the
hybrid car, by solving the equation 1 m = 18. 1 f = 14.
2 whole team by solving the equation
3

Writing Exercises

110. Frida started to solve the equation −3x = 36 by 111. Emiliano thinks
x = 40 is the solution to the
adding 3 to both sides. Explain why Frida’s method 1
equation x = 80. Explain why he is wrong.
will result in the correct solution. 2

Self Check

ⓐ After completing the exercises, use this checklist to evaluate your mastery of the objectives of this section.

ⓑ After reviewing this checklist, what will you do to become confident for all objectives?

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Chapter 8 Solving Linear Equations 685

8.3
Solve Equations with Variables and Constants on Both Sides
Learning Objectives
By the end of this section, you will be able to:
Solve an equation with constants on both sides
Solve an equation with variables on both sides
Solve an equation with variables and constants on both sides
Solve equations using a general strategy

BE PREPARED : : 8.7 Before you get started, take this readiness quiz.
Simplify: 4y − 9 + 9.
If you missed this problem, review Example 2.22.

BE PREPARED : : 8.8 Solve: y + 12 = 16.

If you missed this problem, review Example 2.31.

BE PREPARED : : 8.9 Solve: −3y = 63.

If you missed this problem, review Example 3.65.

Solve an Equation with Constants on Both Sides

You may have noticed that in all the equations we have solved so far, all the variable terms were on only one side of the
equation with the constants on the other side. This does not happen all the time—so now we’ll see how to solve equations
where the variable terms and/or constant terms are on both sides of the equation.
Our strategy will involve choosing one side of the equation to be the variable side, and the other side of the equation
to be the constant side. Then, we will use the Subtraction and Addition Properties of Equality, step by step, to get all the
variable terms together on one side of the equation and the constant terms together on the other side.
By doing this, we will transform the equation that started with variables and constants on both sides into the form
ax = b. We already know how to solve equations of this form by using the Division or Multiplication Properties of
Equality.

EXAMPLE 8.20

Solve: 4x + 6 = −14.
Solution
In this equation, the variable is only on the left side. It makes sense to call the left side the variable side. Therefore, the
right side will be the constant side. We’ll write the labels above the equation to help us remember what goes where.
686 Chapter 8 Solving Linear Equations

Since the left side is the variable side, the 6 is out of place. We must "undo" adding 6
by subtracting 6, and to keep the equality we must subtract 6 from both sides. Use
the Subtraction Property of Equality.

Simplify.

Now all the x s are on the left and the constant on the right.

Use the Division Property of Equality.

Simplify.

Check:

Let x = −5 .

TRY IT : : 8.39 Solve: 3x + 4 = −8.

TRY IT : : 8.40 Solve: 5a + 3 = −37.

EXAMPLE 8.21

Solve: 2y − 7 = 15.
Solution
Notice that the variable is only on the left side of the equation, so this will be the variable side and the right side will be
the constant side. Since the left side is the variable side, the 7 is out of place. It is subtracted from the 2y, so to ‘undo’
subtraction, add 7 to both sides.

Add 7 to both sides.

Simplify.

The variables are now on one side and the constants on the other.

Divide both sides by 2.

Simplify.

Check:

Substitute: y = 11 .

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Chapter 8 Solving Linear Equations 687

TRY IT : : 8.41 Solve: 5y − 9 = 16.

TRY IT : : 8.42 Solve: 3m − 8 = 19.

Solve an Equation with Variables on Both Sides

What if there are variables on both sides of the equation? We will start like we did above—choosing a variable side and a
constant side, and then use the Subtraction and Addition Properties of Equality to collect all variables on one side and all
constants on the other side. Remember, what you do to the left side of the equation, you must do to the right side too.

EXAMPLE 8.22

Solve: 5x = 4x + 7.
Solution
Here the variable, x, is on both sides, but the constants appear only on the right side, so let’s make the right side the
“constant” side. Then the left side will be the “variable” side.

We don't want any variables on the right, so subtract the 4x .

Simplify.

We have all the variables on one side and the constants on the other. We have
solved the equation.

Check:

Substitute 7 for x .

TRY IT : : 8.43 Solve: 6n = 5n + 10.

TRY IT : : 8.44 Solve: −6c = −7c + 1.

EXAMPLE 8.23

Solve: 5y − 8 = 7y.
Solution
The only constant, −8, is on the left side of the equation and variable, y, is on both sides. Let’s leave the constant on
the left and collect the variables to the right.
688 Chapter 8 Solving Linear Equations

Subtract 5y from both sides.

Simplify.

We have the variables on the right and the constants on the left. Divide both sides
by 2.

Simplify.

Rewrite with the variable on the left.

Check: Let y = −4 .

TRY IT : : 8.45 Solve: 3p − 14 = 5p.

TRY IT : : 8.46 Solve: 8m + 9 = 5m.

EXAMPLE 8.24

Solve: 7x = − x + 24.
Solution
The only constant, 24, is on the right, so let the left side be the variable side.

Remove the −x from the right side by adding x to both sides.

Simplify.

All the variables are on the left and the constants are on the right. Divide both sides
by 8.

Simplify.

Check: Substitute x = 3 .

TRY IT : : 8.47 Solve: 12 j = −4 j + 32.

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Chapter 8 Solving Linear Equations 689

TRY IT : : 8.48 Solve: 8h = −4h + 12.

Solve Equations with Variables and Constants on Both Sides

The next example will be the first to have variables and constants on both sides of the equation. As we did before, we’ll
collect the variable terms to one side and the constants to the other side.

EXAMPLE 8.25

Solve: 7x + 5 = 6x + 2.
Solution
Start by choosing which side will be the variable side and which side will be the constant side. The variable terms are 7x
and 6x. Since 7 is greater than 6, make the left side the variable side and so the right side will be the constant side.

Collect the variable terms to the left side by subtracting 6x from both sides.

Simplify.

Now, collect the constants to the right side by subtracting 5 from both sides.

Simplify.

The solution is x = −3 .

Check: Let x = −3 .

TRY IT : : 8.49 Solve: 12x + 8 = 6x + 2.

TRY IT : : 8.50 Solve: 9y + 4 = 7y + 12.

We’ll summarize the steps we took so you can easily refer to them.

HOW TO : : SOLVE AN EQUATION WITH VARIABLES AND CONSTANTS ON BOTH SIDES.

Step 1. Choose one side to be the variable side and then the other will be the constant side.
Step 2. Collect the variable terms to the variable side, using the Addition or Subtraction Property of
Equality.
Step 3. Collect the constants to the other side, using the Addition or Subtraction Property of Equality.
Step 4. Make the coefficient of the variable 1, using the Multiplication or Division Property of
Equality.
Step 5. Check the solution by substituting it into the original equation.

It is a good idea to make the variable side the one in which the variable has the larger coefficient. This usually makes the
arithmetic easier.
690 Chapter 8 Solving Linear Equations

EXAMPLE 8.26

Solve: 6n − 2 = −3n + 7.
Solution
We have 6n on the left and −3n on the right. Since 6 > − 3, make the left side the “variable” side.

We don't want variables on the right side—add 3n to both sides to leave only
constants on the right.

Combine like terms.

We don't want any constants on the left side, so add 2 to both sides.

Simplify.

The variable term is on the left and the constant term is on the right.
To get the coefficient of n to be one, divide both sides by 9.

Simplify.

Check: Substitute 1 for n .

TRY IT : : 8.51 Solve: 8q − 5 = −4q + 7.

TRY IT : : 8.52 Solve: 7n − 3 = n + 3.

EXAMPLE 8.27

Solve: 2a − 7 = 5a + 8.
Solution
This equation has 2a on the left and 5a on the right. Since 5 > 2, make the right side the variable side and the left
side the constant side.

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Chapter 8 Solving Linear Equations 691

Subtract 2a from both sides to remove the variable term from the left.

Combine like terms.

Subtract 8 from both sides to remove the constant from the right.

Simplify.

Divide both sides by 3 to make 1 the coefficient of a .

Simplify.

Check: Let a = −5 .

Note that we could have made the left side the variable side instead of the right side, but it would have led to a negative
coefficient on the variable term. While we could work with the negative, there is less chance of error when working with
positives. The strategy outlined above helps avoid the negatives!

TRY IT : : 8.53 Solve: 2a − 2 = 6a + 18.

TRY IT : : 8.54 Solve: 4k − 1 = 7k + 17.

To solve an equation with fractions, we still follow the same steps to get the solution.

EXAMPLE 8.28

Solve: 3 x + 5 = 1 x − 3.
2 2
Solution
Since 3 > 1 , make the left side the variable side and the right side the constant side.
2 2
692 Chapter 8 Solving Linear Equations

Subtract 1 x from both sides.

2

Combine like terms.

Subtract 5 from both sides.

Simplify.

Check: Let x = −8 .

TRY IT : : 8.55 7 x − 12 = − 1 x − 2.
Solve:
8 8

TRY IT : : 8.56 7 y + 11 = 1 y + 8.
Solve:
6 6

We follow the same steps when the equation has decimals, too.

EXAMPLE 8.29

Solve: 3.4x + 4 = 1.6x − 5.

Solution
Since 3.4 > 1.6, make the left side the variable side and the right side the constant side.

Subtract 1.6x from both sides.

Combine like terms.

Subtract 4 from both sides.

Simplify.

Use the Division Property of Equality.

Simplify.

Check: Let x = −5 .

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Chapter 8 Solving Linear Equations 693

TRY IT : : 8.57 Solve: 2.8x + 12 = −1.4x − 9.

TRY IT : : 8.58 Solve: 3.6y + 8 = 1.2y − 4.

Solve Equations Using a General Strategy

Each of the first few sections of this chapter has dealt with solving one specific form of a linear equation. It’s time now to
lay out an overall strategy that can be used to solve any linear equation. We call this the general strategy. Some equations
won’t require all the steps to solve, but many will. Simplifying each side of the equation as much as possible first makes
the rest of the steps easier.

HOW TO : : USE A GENERAL STRATEGY FOR SOLVING LINEAR EQUATIONS.

Step 1. Simplify each side of the equation as much as possible. Use the Distributive Property to
remove any parentheses. Combine like terms.
Step 2. Collect all the variable terms to one side of the equation. Use the Addition or Subtraction
Property of Equality.
Step 3. Collect all the constant terms to the other side of the equation. Use the Addition or Subtraction
Property of Equality.
Step 4. Make the coefficient of the variable term to equal to 1. Use the Multiplication or Division
Property of Equality. State the solution to the equation.
Step 5. Check the solution. Substitute the solution into the original equation to make sure the result is
a true statement.

EXAMPLE 8.30

Solve: 3(x + 2) = 18.

Solution

Simplify each side of the equation as much as possible.

Use the Distributive Property.

Collect all variable terms on one side of the equation—all x s are already on the left
side.

Collect constant terms on the other side of the equation.

Subtract 6 from each side

Simplify.

Make the coefficient of the variable term equal to 1. Divide each side by 3.

Simplify.

Check: Let x = 4 .
694 Chapter 8 Solving Linear Equations

TRY IT : : 8.59 Solve: 5(x + 3) = 35.

TRY IT : : 8.60 Solve: 6(y − 4) = −18.

EXAMPLE 8.31

Solve: −(x + 5) = 7.
Solution

Simplify each side of the equation as much as possible by distributing.

The only x term is on the left side, so all variable terms are on the left side of the
equation.

Add 5 to both sides to get all constant terms on the right side of the equation.

Simplify.

Make the coefficient of the variable term equal to 1 by multiplying both sides by -1.

Simplify.

Check: Let x = −12 .

TRY IT : : 8.61 Solve: −(y + 8) = −2.

TRY IT : : 8.62 Solve: −(z + 4) = −12.

EXAMPLE 8.32

Solve: 4(x − 2) + 5 = −3.

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Chapter 8 Solving Linear Equations 695

Solution

Simplify each side of the equation as much as possible.

Distribute.

Combine like terms

The only x is on the left side, so all variable terms are on one side of the equation.

Add 3 to both sides to get all constant terms on the other side of the equation.

Simplify.

Make the coefficient of the variable term equal to 1 by dividing both sides by 4.

Simplify.

Check: Let x = 0 .

TRY IT : : 8.63 Solve: 2(a − 4) + 3 = −1.

TRY IT : : 8.64 Solve: 7(n − 3) − 8 = −15.

EXAMPLE 8.33

Solve: 8 − 2(3y + 5) = 0.
Solution
Be careful when distributing the negative.
696 Chapter 8 Solving Linear Equations

Simplify—use the Distributive Property.

Combine like terms.

Add 2 to both sides to collect constants on the right.

Simplify.

Divide both sides by −6.

Simplify.

Check: Let y = − 1 .
3

TRY IT : : 8.65 Solve: 12 − 3(4 j + 3) = −17.

TRY IT : : 8.66 Solve: −6 − 8(k − 2) = −10.

EXAMPLE 8.34

Solve: 3(x − 2) − 5 = 4(2x + 1) + 5.

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Chapter 8 Solving Linear Equations 697

Solution

Distribute.

Combine like terms.

Subtract 3x to get all the variables on the right since 8 > 3 .

Simplify.

Subtract 9 to get the constants on the left.

Simplify.

Divide by 5.

Simplify.

Check: Substitute: −4 = x .

TRY IT : : 8.67 Solve: 6(p − 3) − 7 = 5(4p + 3) − 12.

TRY IT : : 8.68 Solve: 8(q + 1) − 5 = 3(2q − 4) − 1.

EXAMPLE 8.35

Solve: 1 (6x − 2) = 5 − x.
2
698 Chapter 8 Solving Linear Equations

Solution

Distribute.

Add x to get all the variables on the left.

Simplify.

Add 1 to get constants on the right.

Simplify.

Divide by 4.

Simplify.

Check: Let x = 3 .
2

TRY IT : : 8.69 1 (6u + 3) = 7 − u.

Solve:
3

TRY IT : : 8.70 2 (9x − 12) = 8 + 2x.

Solve:
3

In many applications, we will have to solve equations with decimals. The same general strategy will work for these
equations.

EXAMPLE 8.36

Solve: 0.24(100x + 5) = 0.4(30x + 15).

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Chapter 8 Solving Linear Equations 699

Solution

Distribute.

Subtract 12x to get all the x s to the left.

Simplify.

Subtract 1.2 to get the constants to the right.

Simplify.

Divide.

Simplify.

Check: Let x = 0.4 .

TRY IT : : 8.71 Solve: 0.55(100n + 8) = 0.6(85n + 14).

TRY IT : : 8.72 Solve: 0.15(40m − 120) = 0.5(60m + 12).

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700 Chapter 8 Solving Linear Equations

8.3 EXERCISES
Practice Makes Perfect
Solve an Equation with Constants on Both Sides
In the following exercises, solve the equation for the variable.
112. 6x − 2 = 40 113. 7x − 8 = 34 114. 11w + 6 = 93

115. 14y + 7 = 91 116. 3a + 8 = −46 117. 4m + 9 = −23

118. −50 = 7n − 1 119. −47 = 6b + 1 120. 25 = −9y + 7

121. 29 = −8x − 3 122. −12p − 3 = 15 123. −14q − 15 = 13

Solve an Equation with Variables on Both Sides

In the following exercises, solve the equation for the variable.
124. 8z = 7z − 7 125. 9k = 8k − 11 126. 4x + 36 = 10x

127. 6x + 27 = 9x 128. c = −3c − 20 129. b = −4b − 15

130. 5q = 44 − 6q 131. 7z = 39 − 6z 132. 3y + 1 = 2y

2

133. 8x + 3 = 7x 134. −12a − 8 = −16a 135. −15r − 8 = −11r

4

Solve an Equation with Variables and Constants on Both Sides

In the following exercises, solve the equations for the variable.
136. 6x − 15 = 5x + 3 137. 4x − 17 = 3x + 2 138. 26 + 8d = 9d + 11

139. 21 + 6 f = 7 f + 14 140. 3p − 1 = 5p − 33 141. 8q − 5 = 5q − 20

142. 4a + 5 = − a − 40 143. 9c + 7 = −2c − 37 144. 8y − 30 = −2y + 30

145. 12x − 17 = −3x + 13 146. 2z − 4 = 23 − z 147. 3y − 4 = 12 − y

148. 5 c − 3 = 1 c − 16 149. 4 m − 7 = 1 m − 13 150. 8 − 2q = 3q + 6

4 4 3 3 5 5

151. 11 − 1 a = 3 a + 4 152. 4n + 9 = 1n − 9 153. 5 a + 15 = 3 a − 5

4 4 3 3 4 4

154. 1y+7 = 3y−3 155. 3p+2= 4p−1 156. 14n + 8.25 = 9n + 19.60
4 4 5 5

157. 13z + 6.45 = 8z + 23.75 158. 2.4w − 100 = 0.8w + 28 159. 2.7w − 80 = 1.2w + 10

160. 5.6r + 13.1 = 3.5r + 57.2 161. 6.6x − 18.9 = 3.4x + 54.7

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Chapter 8 Solving Linear Equations 701

Solve an Equation Using the General Strategy

In the following exercises, solve the linear equation using the general strategy.
162. 5(x + 3) = 75 163. 4(y + 7) = 64 164. 8 = 4(x − 3)

165. 9 = 3(x − 3) 166. 20(y − 8) = −60 167. 14(y − 6) = −42

168. −4(2n + 1) = 16 169. −7(3n + 4) = 14 170. 3(10 + 5r) = 0

171. 8(3 + 3p) = 0 172. 2 (9c − 3) = 22 173. 3 (10x − 5) = 27

3 5

174. 5(1.2u − 4.8) = −12 175. 4(2.5v − 0.6) = 7.6 176. 0.2(30n + 50) = 28

177. 0.5(16m + 34) = −15 178. −(w − 6) = 24 179. −(t − 8) = 17

180. 9(3a + 5) + 9 = 54 181. 8(6b − 7) + 23 = 63 182. 10 + 3(z + 4) = 19

183. 13 + 2(m − 4) = 17 184. 7 + 5(4 − q) = 12 185. −9 + 6(5 − k) = 12

186. 15 − (3r + 8) = 28 187. 18 − (9r + 7) = −16 188. 11 − 4(y − 8) = 43

189. 18 − 2(y − 3) = 32 190. 9(p − 1) = 6(2p − 1) 191. 3(4n − 1) − 2 = 8n + 3

192. 9(2m − 3) − 8 = 4m + 7 193. 5(x − 4) − 4x = 14 194. 8(x − 4) − 7x = 14

195. 196. 197.

5 + 6(3s − 5) = −3 + 2(8s − 1) −12 + 8(x − 5) = −4 + 3(5x − 2) 4(x − 1) − 8 = 6(3x − 2) − 7

198. 7(2x − 5) = 8(4x − 1) − 9

Everyday Math
199. Making a fence Jovani has a fence around the 200. Concert tickets At a school concert, the total
rectangular garden in his backyard. The perimeter of value of tickets sold was $1,506. Student tickets sold
the fence is 150 feet. The length is 15 feet more than
for $6 and adult tickets sold for $9. The number of
the width. Find the width, w, by solving the equation
adult tickets sold was 5 less than 3 times the number
150 = 2(w + 15) + 2w. of student tickets. Find the number of student tickets
sold, s, by solving the equation
6s + 9(3s − 5) = 1506.

201. Coins Rhonda has $1.90 in nickels and dimes. The 202. Fencing Micah has 74 feet of fencing to make a
number of dimes is one less than twice the number of rectangular dog pen in his yard. He wants the length to
nickels. Find the number of nickels, n, by solving the be 25 feet more than the width. Find the length, L,
equation 0.05n + 0.10(2n − 1) = 1.90. by solving the equation 2L + 2(L − 25) = 74.

Writing Exercises
203. When solving an equation with variables on both 204. Solve the equation 10x + 14 = −2x + 38,
sides, why is it usually better to choose the side with explaining all the steps of your solution.
the larger coefficient as the variable side?
702 Chapter 8 Solving Linear Equations

205. What is the first step you take when solving the 1 (8x + 20) = 3x − 4
206. Solve the equation
equation 3 − 7(y − 4) = 38 ? Explain why this is your 4
first step. explaining all the steps of your solution as in the
examples in this section.

207. Using your own words, list the steps in the General 208. Explain why you should simplify both sides of an
Strategy for Solving Linear Equations. equation as much as possible before collecting the
variable terms to one side and the constant terms to
the other side.

Self Check

ⓐ After completing the exercises, use this checklist to evaluate your mastery of the objectives of this section.

ⓑ What does this checklist tell you about your mastery of this section? What steps will you take to improve?

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