SOLUTION: I am stuck, would you please help me? The question is: A common mistake when solving equations is the following: The equation: 2(x - 2) = x + 3 First step in solving:

Algebra ->  Equations -> SOLUTION: I am stuck, would you please help me? The question is: A common mistake when solving equations is the following: The equation: 2(x - 2) = x + 3 First step in solving:       Log On


   

Question 20509: I am stuck, would you please help me? The question is: A common mistake when solving equations is the following:
The equation: 2(x - 2) = x + 3
First step in solving: 2x - 2 = x + 3
Write a clear explanation of what ettor has been made. What could be done to avoid this error?
I am having a huge problem trying to understand a lot of the equations solving. Is there a secret to remebering what is what?
Thank you vey much for your help,
Sherri
Answer by wuwei96815(245) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
2(x-2) = x+3

Solution:
2(x-2) = x+3
2x-4 = x+3
2x-x = 3+4
x = 7

Do you see where you made your mistake? When you removed the parentheses, you failed to multiply both terms by 2. x and 2 are separate terms, and each must be multiplied by what is outside the parentheses.