Question 218752
Solve: -(a - 9) = 3a + 17 


Step 1.  Distribute -1 in parenthesis


{{{-a+9=3a+17}}}


Step 2.  Add a-17 to both sides of the equation 


{{{-a+9+a-17=3a+17+a-17}}}


{{{-8=4a}}}


Step 3.  Divide 4 to both sides of the equation


{{{-8/4=4a/4}}}



{{{-2=a}}}


Step 3.  ANSWER a=-2.


I hope the above steps and explanation were helpful. 


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Respectfully, 
Dr J


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