SOLUTION: Let "x" be defined as "x" = x^2 - x for all values of x. If "a" = "a-2", what is the value of a? Note: the "" symbol means the variable is circled. The answer is 3/2, but I d

Algebra ->  College  -> Linear Algebra -> SOLUTION: Let "x" be defined as "x" = x^2 - x for all values of x. If "a" = "a-2", what is the value of a? Note: the "" symbol means the variable is circled. The answer is 3/2, but I d      Log On


   

Question 471202: Let "x" be defined as "x" = x^2 - x for all values of x. If "a" = "a-2", what is the value of a?
Note: the "" symbol means the variable is circled.
The answer is 3/2, but I do not understand how to get this answer, please help.
Answer by MathLover1(20850) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!

a%5E2+-+a+=+%28a-2%29%5E2+-+%28a-2%29

a%5E2+-+a+=+a%5E2+-+4a+%2B+4+-+a+%2B+2

a%5E2+-+a+=+a%5E2+-+5a+%2B+6

Subtract a%5E2 from both sides:

-a+=+-5a+%2B+6

Add 5a to both sides:

4a+=+6

Divide both sides by 4:

a+=+3%2F2