Thread: Solving equations?

I have an equation;

7 = 2
3+a a - 2

can I solve it this way?

6a + 2a = 8a
7a - 14 7a -14

= a - 14

The method I have used is to cross multiply, but I am unsure?

Originally Posted by David Green

I have an equation;

7 = 2
3+a a - 2

You can say
.

Now solve for .

Originally Posted by Plato

You can say
.

Now solve for .

Does that mean that now there is two (a) I have to factor one out?

Originally Posted by David Green

Does that mean that now there is two (a) I have to factor one out?

No, this is a linear equation with variables on both sides. You need the two terms with "a" on one side, and everything else on the other side.

Originally Posted by David Green

Does that mean that now there is two (a) I have to factor one out?

I don't even know what that question means, much less how to answer it.
What level are you on?
What are you studying?
Can you solve for

Originally Posted by Plato

I don't even know what that question means, much less how to answer it.
What level are you on?
What are you studying?
Can you solve for

I am only a beginner

Introduction to maths

a(7 - 14)(6 + 2) ???

7a - 14 = 6 + 2a
7a - 2a = 6 + 14
5a = 20
a = 4

how am I doing!

Originally Posted by David Green

I am only a beginner

Introduction to maths

Originally Posted by Plato

Thank you, so I did get it right with a little help, after all "every little helps"