Question

Find the value of \( x \) in the equation \( 2x + 3 = 7x - 8 \).

• A. \( x = 2.2 \)
• B. \( x = 2.5 \)
• C. \( x = 3.2 \)
• D. \( x = 3.5 \)

Hint:

Remember: When solving linear equations, always move terms with the variable to one side and constants to the other side before simplifying.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Move the \( x \)-terms to one side

Subtract \( 2x \) from both sides to get all the \( x \)-terms on the right:

\( 2x + 3 - 2x = 7x - 8 - 2x \)

This simplifies to:

\( 3 = 5x - 8 \)

Step 2: Move the constant to the other side

Add 8 to both sides to get the numbers on the left:

\( 3 + 8 = 5x - 8 + 8 \)

This simplifies to:

\( 11 = 5x \)

Step 3: Solve for \( x \)

Divide both sides by 5 to find \( x \):

\( \frac{11}{5} = x \)

So, \( x = \frac{11}{5} \), which is 2.2.