SOLUTION: thanks for your help on the previous problem... I'm trying to apply the rules you showed me. So... now I've got {{{ ((4x-5)/10)-((x-2)/4)=(x/20)-1}}} I got as far as {{{ 8x-1

Algebra ->  Equations -> SOLUTION: thanks for your help on the previous problem... I'm trying to apply the rules you showed me. So... now I've got {{{ ((4x-5)/10)-((x-2)/4)=(x/20)-1}}} I got as far as {{{ 8x-1      Log On


   

Question 13613: thanks for your help on the previous problem... I'm trying to apply the rules you showed me. So... now I've got +%28%284x-5%29%2F10%29-%28%28x-2%29%2F4%29=%28x%2F20%29-1
I got as far as +8x-10-5x%2B10=x-20
I can't figure out the +/- rules for simplifying from here. I thought you keep whatever sign is directly in front of the number: +8x and -10 and -5x and +10
So now I'm stuck with x=10; but when I plug it in, I get 1%281%2F2%29=-%281%2F2%29 which is not equal.
i really appreciate the help. thanks!
Answer by longjonsilver(2297) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
multiply everything by 20..correct
be careful with the -ve signs outside of brackets...correct

8x-10-5x+10=x-20
3x = x-20
2x = -20
--> x = -10

CHECK:
+%28%28-40-5%29%2F10%29-%28%28-10-2%29%2F4%29=%28-10%2F20%29-1
+%28%28-45%29%2F10%29-%28%28-12%29%2F4%29=%28-1%2F2%29-1
(-4.5)-(-3)=(-1/2)-1
-4.5 + 3 = -1.5
-1.5 = -1.5
--> correct

jon.