SOLUTION: When you have an ax+b=cx + d type of equation like 3(x+2)=2(x+2) where I know the answer is -2 when you distribute and solve... ie- 3x+6=2x+4

Algebra ->  Equations -> SOLUTION: When you have an ax+b=cx + d type of equation like 3(x+2)=2(x+2) where I know the answer is -2 when you distribute and solve... ie- 3x+6=2x+4       Log On


   

Question 1109257: When you have an ax+b=cx + d type of equation like 3(x+2)=2(x+2) where I know the answer is -2 when you distribute and solve... ie- 3x+6=2x+4
3x+2=2x
2=-x
-2=x
why can't you start by dividing both sides by (x+2).....and get 3=2...no solution?
Thanks!
Answer by Fombitz(32388) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
Because you have to allow for the fact that x%2B2=0.
.
.
So you can set the problem up ad divide by x%2B2 if you allow that x%2B2%3C%3E0.
Then you would have no solution.
But typically you go into a problem not knowing any information about the solution so you wouldn't place a restriction on the solution.
.
.
However, in this case, x=-2 or x%2B2=0 so by not allowing the solution, you get no solution.