Solving One Step Equations

One-Step Equations Solution(s) are the values that make an equation true. One way to solve an equation is to get the variable alone on one side of the equal sign. To get the variable by itself, use inverse operations (opposite operations).

X + 42.1 = 58.5 The inverse (or opposite) of adding 42.1 is subtracting 42.1. So, to keep the equation “balanced” you must subtract 42.1 from BOTH sides. X + 42.1 – 42.1 = 58.5 – 42.1 X = 16.4

X – 6.8 = 32.7 The inverse (or opposite) of subtracting 6.8 is adding 6.8 Add 6.8 to both sides. X – 6.8 + 6.8 = 32.7 + 6.8 X = 39.5

1.2x = -3.6 1.2x means 1.2 times x. The inverse of multiplying by 1.2 is dividing by 1.2 Divide both sides by 1.2 X = -3

The inverse of dividing by –3 is multiplying by -3. Multiply both sides by –3. X = 12.3

Try these… 4 = 3.1 + y -1500 + r = 235 -3x = 315 x/-8 = 27

Try these…(answers) Try these… 4 = 3.1 + y y = 0.9 -1500 + r = 235 x = 11/15 x = 6 1/4 -3x = 315 X = -105 x/-8 = 27 X = -216 W = 9 1/5 X = -14.35