math-algebra

[dsunflower]

decide if the given number is a solution to the given equation.

x/4 =5;20

is it yes or no? i am stumped, thanks

 

[Denis]

Just solve x/4 = 5 for x.

 

[mmm4444bot]

?

decide if [20] is a solution …

Hello Sunflower:

There's also another approach.

First, do you understand what a "solution" for an equation means?

This exercise is asking you whether or not the given solution of x = 20 leads to a true statement in the equation.

We can always check candidates for an equation's solution by substituting them into the equation, followed by simplifying.

Let's do that. Let's substitute 20 for x in the equation.

20/4 = 5

Is this equation a true statement? If it is, then 20 is a solution.



Here's an example that shows a false statement.

Is 28 a solution for the equation x/4 = 5 ?

We substitute x = 28, to check.

28/4 = 5

Now, we simplify.

7 = 5

This equation is a false statement, so 28 is not a solution.



Cheers ~ Mark

 

[dsunflower]

thank you so much for explaining what a solution is. It is much clearer now. take care