You can
put this solution on YOUR website! I know I make common mistakes when solving
equations can you help with the following:
The equation: 2(x -2) =x+3
First step in solving: 2x-2 =x+3
Can you tell me a clear explanation of what
error has been made. What could be done to
avoid this error?
Your error is in the distributive law or
principle. You have
2(x - 2) = x + 3
Then you have
2x - 2 = x + 3
That is wrong. It should be
2x - 4 = x + 3
That's because when you have 2(x - 2) you multiply
the red 2 first times the x, which you did, but ALSO
you must multiply the red 2 times the blue - 2 as well.
What you did was to multiply the red 2 by the x and
then just copy down the blue - 2 without multiplying
the red 2 by it to get - 4.
Edwin
AnlytcPhil@aol.com