Chapter 13
Solving Linear Equations
Linear equations are of the form ax + b = c, where x is some variable, and a, b, and c are real numbers. To solve a linear equation, you perform a series of opposites: If a number is added to the term containing x, you subtract that number from both sides of the equation; if a number is subtracted from the term containing the variable, you add; if a number multiplies the variable, you divide; and if a number divides the variable, you multiply. Just be sure that whatever you do to one side of the equation, you also do to the other side. Think of the equation as two expressions pivoting on either side of a balance scale — you need to keep the sides evenly balanced.
The Problems You'll Work On
Here are a few things you do in this chapter to find answers:
What to Watch Out For
As you get in a groove solving linear equations, be sure you're doing the following:
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