Question 120609

{{{1=(1/3)a-5}}} Start with the given equation




{{{(3)(1)=(3)((1/3)a-5)}}} Multiply both sides by the LCM of 3. This will eliminate the fractions  (note: if you need help with finding the LCM, check out this <a href=http://www.algebra.com/algebra/homework/divisibility/least-common-multiple.solver>solver</a>)




{{{3=a-15}}} Distribute and multiply the LCM to each side




{{{0=a-15-3}}}Subtract 3 from both sides



{{{-a=-15-3}}} Subtract a from both sides



{{{-a=-18}}} Combine like terms on the right side



{{{a=(-18)/(-1)}}} Divide both sides by -1 to isolate a




{{{a=18}}} Divide


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Answer:

So our answer is {{{a=18}}}