How to Solve Equations with Two Sets of Brackets
Solving equations with two sets of brackets is easy.Question
Solve 2(x + 1) + 3(x − 4) = 0.Step-by-Step:
1
Expand the first set of brackets on the left-hand side of the equation.
Don't forget: Expand the brackets by multiplying each term inside the brackets with the term outside of it.
2(x + 1) = 2 × x + 2 × 1
2x + 2
2
Expand the second set of brackets on the left-hand side of the equation, having replaced the first set of brackets with the result of Step 1.
3(x − 4) = 3 × x − 3 × 4
3x − 12
3
Collect like terms.
- Identify the like terms. The like x terms are 2x and 3x. The like number terms are 2 and −12.
- Collect the like x terms and the like number terms together
4
Solve the equation.
| 5x − 10 = 0 | |
| 5x − 10 + 10 = 0 + 10 | Add 10 to both sides |
| 5x = 10 | |
| 5x ÷ 5 = 10 ÷ 5 | Divide both sides by 5 |
| x = 2 |
Answer:
The solution to 2(x + 1) + 3(x − 4) = 0 is x = 2.
This page was written by Stephen Clarke.
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