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An equation and the steps to solve it are shown below:

2x - one over four of (12x + 4) = 3

Step 1: 2x + 3x + 1 = 3
Step 2: 5x + 1 = 3
Step 3: 5x + 1 - 1 = 3 - 1
Step 4: 5x = 2

In which step was the error made and why?

Step 1, because incorrect signs have been used

Step 2, because the terms have been added incorrectly

Step 3, because a number has been subtracted from both sides of the equation

No error was made

 Jul 19, 2014

Best Answer 

 #1
avatar+3454 
+5

I'm going to say, "Step 1, because incorrect signs have been used."

Here's my reasoning:

2x - 1/4 of (12x + 4) = 3           ---"of" means to multiply here

2x - 1/4*(12x+4) = 3                ---We do need to distribute the negative sign out. This is the same thing as

2x + (-1/4)*(12x+4) = 3

2x + (-3x -1) = 3

-x -1 = 3

x = 4

 Jul 20, 2014
 #1
avatar+3454 
+5
Best Answer

I'm going to say, "Step 1, because incorrect signs have been used."

Here's my reasoning:

2x - 1/4 of (12x + 4) = 3           ---"of" means to multiply here

2x - 1/4*(12x+4) = 3                ---We do need to distribute the negative sign out. This is the same thing as

2x + (-1/4)*(12x+4) = 3

2x + (-3x -1) = 3

-x -1 = 3

x = 4

NinjaDevo Jul 20, 2014

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