Thread: A staggering algebra problem.

x+(300-2x)+(170-x)+(150-x)=500

Need help with this problem. I know the solution is 200 but do not know how to achieve it.

Originally Posted by GeoBlockage

x+(300-2x)+(170-x)+(150-x)=500

Need help with this problem. I know the solution is 200 but do not know how to achieve it.

the solution in the book is wrong from what i am getting. show me your work.

x+(300-x)+(170-x)+(150-x)=500

620x-4x=500

616x=500

x=116

Originally Posted by GeoBlockage

x+(300-x)+(170-x)+(150-x)=500

620x-4x=500

616x=500

x=116

you must use the distributive law outside the brackets. when there is no number present in front of the bracket, you must add an imaginary 1.