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To solve this problem, we'll follow these steps:
Now, let's work through each step:
Step 1: The given equation is .
First, combine the like terms involving :
.
Now, the equation simplifies to .
Step 2: Isolate by first adding 6 to both sides of the equation to eliminate the constant term on the right side:
.
Next, divide both sides by 5 to solve for :
.
Step 3: Verify the solution:
Substitute back into the original equation:
Calculate each term: , , and .
Therefore, , which simplifies to , confirming our solution is correct.
Therefore, the solution to the problem is .
\( -16+a=-17 \)
Combining like terms simplifies the equation before solving. It's much easier to work with than the original messy equation!
Look for terms with the same variable and same power. In this problem, 3a, 4a, and -2a all have 'a' to the first power, so they combine. The -6 has no variable, so it stays separate.
Yes! You could add 6 to both sides first, then combine like terms. Both methods work, but combining like terms first usually makes the arithmetic easier.
You're done when the variable stands alone on one side with just a number on the other side, like a = 5. No more operations needed!
Double-check your arithmetic: . If your final verification doesn't work out to , go back and recheck each step carefully.
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