Simple Linear Equations, one problem..

[TheKeyboardist]

Im good with linear equations, i remember them. But when i was simplifying a problem, i ran into an obstacle. Try to solve this problem:

2x-4(x+2)=-2x-8

If you can find a solution, please inform me. You dont have to give me an answer, just some help of if there really is an answer to this. Ive been stuck on this a while. Thanks in advance!

 

[tkhunny]

That one can LOOK a little tricky, but it isn't.

The two expressions are equivalent. It has lots of solutions. Put ay value in for 'x' and it will work.

 

[TheKeyboardist]

yea, i can see the equivalence, if you add the 2x and -4x, it equals each other.

 

[tkhunny]

Rule of thumb, While looking for solutions, keep your eye out for special cases, like no solution or infinitely many solutions. Don't let them sneak up on you unaware.

 

[TheKeyboardist]

what the.... i put in a random number like you said and it worked....

So what am i supposed to put for an answer?

 

[tkhunny]

Quote me: "All Real Numbers"

 

[TheKeyboardist]

thanks alot!