Which Is A Correct First Step In Solving 5-2X 8X-3?

Introduction

Solving mathematical equations can be a daunting task for many students. It is important to understand the basic concepts and rules of mathematics to solve these equations accurately. In this article, we will discuss the correct first step in solving 5-2x 8x-3.

Understanding the Equation

The given equation is 5-2x 8x-3. It is a combination of two terms, and we need to simplify it by using the correct mathematical operations. The first step in solving this equation is to identify the terms and their coefficients. The term 5 is a constant in this equation as it does not contain any variable. The term 2x is a variable term, and the coefficient of x is -2. Similarly, the term 8x is also a variable term, and the coefficient of x is 8. The constant term in this equation is -3.

Applying the Order of Operations

To solve this equation, we need to follow the order of operations. The order of operations is a set of rules that determines the sequence of mathematical operations to be performed in a given equation. It is also known as PEMDAS, which stands for Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication, Division, Addition, and Subtraction. The first step in solving this equation is to simplify the terms inside the parentheses, if any. However, there are no parentheses in this equation, so we can move to the next step. The next step is to simplify any exponents in the equation. However, there are no exponents in this equation, so we can move to the next step. The third step is to perform any multiplication or division in the equation, working from left to right. In this equation, we have two terms with coefficients, -2x and 8x. To simplify these terms, we need to combine them.

Combining Like Terms

To combine like terms, we need to add or subtract the coefficients of the variable terms. In this equation, we have -2x and 8x. These terms are like terms because they both contain the variable x. To combine these terms, we need to subtract their coefficients. -2x + 8x = 6x Now, the equation becomes 5 - 6x - 3. We can combine the constants 5 and -3 to get 2. Therefore, the simplified equation is: 2 - 6x

Conclusion

The correct first step in solving 5-2x 8x-3 is to combine the like terms with coefficients. We need to subtract the coefficients of the variable terms and simplify the equation. By following the order of operations, we can solve mathematical equations accurately and efficiently. It is important to understand the basic concepts of mathematics and practice solving equations to improve our skills.