SOLUTION: I am trying to help my son with his algebra homework but never really understood it myself. Can you please explain how you solve negative and fraction problems. One such problem

Algebra ->  Exponents-negative-and-fractional -> SOLUTION: I am trying to help my son with his algebra homework but never really understood it myself. Can you please explain how you solve negative and fraction problems. One such problem       Log On


   

Question 10253: I am trying to help my son with his algebra homework but never really understood it myself. Can you please explain how you solve negative and fraction problems. One such problem is x/-4 + 5 =1
thanks!
Answer by rapaljer(4671) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
There are two things that need to be "undone" in this problem, and you can undo them in either order. It doesn't matter. I recommend that you begin by undoing the +5 subtracting 5 from each side.

x%2F%28-4%29+%2B+5+=+1
x%2F%28-4%29+%2B+5+-+5=+1+-+5
x%2F%28-4%29+=+-4+

Now, multiply both sides of the equation by -4:
%28-4%29%2A+%28x%2F%28-4%29+%29+=+%28-4%29%2A%28-4%29
x=16

Check: %2816%29%2F%28-4%29+%2B+5+=+1
-4+%2B+5+=+1
It checks.

R^2 at SCC