SOLUTION: Hello im jessi, im currently studying multi-step inequalities. I came across a problem that is 21>3(a-7)+9 the next step i did towards solving it was 21>3a-21+9 but im not quite

Algebra ->  Equations -> SOLUTION: Hello im jessi, im currently studying multi-step inequalities. I came across a problem that is 21>3(a-7)+9 the next step i did towards solving it was 21>3a-21+9 but im not quite       Log On


   

Question 830615: Hello im jessi, im currently studying multi-step inequalities.
I came across a problem that is 21>3(a-7)+9 the next step i did towards solving it was 21>3a-21+9 but im not quite sure if next i would add 21 and 9 to get 21>3a-30 or if i would add -21 and 9 to get 21>3a-12
Can you please help me?
Answer by josgarithmetic(39617) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
Do just like for an equation. The distinction is for when multiplying by a negative number.

21%3E3%28a-7%29%2B9
21%3E3a-21%2B9
21%3E3a-12
21%2B12%3E3a
33%3E3a
11%3Ea


You indicate confusion on -21%2B9.
Starting with the expression which holds it,
3a-21%2B9
3a%2B%28-21%29%2B9
Remember how to represent that %28-21%29%2B9 on a number line!
9-21=-21%2B9=-12