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Solving equations with a negative coefficient

Solving equations with a negative coefficient.

  • Use the same operation on both sides of the equation.
  • Remove any added or subtracted term, then divide by the whole coefficient, including its negative sign.
  • A negative divided by a negative is positive. Check by substituting into the original equation.

Example 1

Solve the equation.

Divide both sides by the negative coefficient.

Example 2

Solve the equation.

Divide both sides by the negative coefficient.

Your turn

Question 1

Solve the equation.

Check answer
Divide both sides by the negative coefficient.
Question 2

Solve the equation.

Check answer
Divide both sides by the negative coefficient.
Question 3

Solve the equation.

Check answer
Divide both sides by the negative coefficient.
Question 4

Solve the equation.

Check answer
Divide both sides by the negative coefficient.
Question 5

Solve the equation.

Check answer
Divide both sides by the negative coefficient.