To determine the value of x in an equation, you need to isolate x on one side of the equation. Let’s go through a step-by-step approach using a simple example equation:
Suppose you have the equation:
2x + 5 = 15
Here’s how you can solve for x:
- Step 1: Subtract 5 from both sides.
To isolate the term with x, subtract 5 from both sides of the equation:
2x + 5 – 5 = 15 – 5
This simplifies to:
2x = 10
- Step 2: Divide both sides by 2.
Next, to solve for x, divide both sides of the equation by 2:
2x / 2 = 10 / 2
This simplifies to:
x = 5
So, the value of x in the equation 2x + 5 = 15 is 5.
In summary, to find the value of x, always aim to isolate it on one side by performing inverse operations (like adding, subtracting, multiplying, or dividing) on both sides of the equation. Practice with different equations to become more comfortable with the process!