Thread: solving this linear equation

Solve for x in terms of a and b

2a + 3(x-2) = ax + b
---
3

^^( that's 2a over 3)

I know it's probably simple but I can't get it!

Originally Posted by Larianne

Solve for x in terms of a and b

2a + 3(x-2) = ax + b
---
3

^^( that's 2a over 3)

I know it's probably simple but I can't get it!

Hi Larianne,

It's only simple for those who already know how to do it.





Multiply through by 3.



Group x terms together.



Factor out a 3x on the left.



Divide both sides by 3(3-a).

Thank Masters!

So I can't get x as a 'whole' number? That's what I was having trouble with.

Larianne.

Originally Posted by Larianne

Thank Masters!

So I can't get x as a 'whole' number? That's what I was having trouble with.

Larianne.

You're dealing with 'literals' here. This means your answer will not be a number. Both a and b are unknown variables at this time, so we just solve for whichever variable is required. It's like converting formulas like this:

Distance = rate X time

Rate = distance divided by time

Time = distance divided by rate.