Question 765727
change the word problem into math language
seven times a number ==> 7x ( let x = number)
is ==> =
9 less than the product of the number and -20 ==> -20x-9 ( 9 comes after the products because the words LESS THEN means subtract 9 from...)
 *now put the math phrases together ==> 7x=-20x-9
now solve for x (first move the same terms to one side
7x+20x=(-20x+20x)-9  ==> 27x=-9 ( moved -20 to other side by adding 20x)
now, get x by self by dividing -9 by 27 ==> x=-9/27
simplify the fraction -1/3
ANSWER: -1/3