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Finding mistakes in one-step equations

Gain a deeper understanding of solving one-step equations by studying a correct and an incorrect example.
Solving one-step equations is all about using inverse operations on both sides of an equation to get the variable by itself. Answer the questions below to deepen your understanding of how to solve one-step equations.

Cam solved this problem correctly:

Solve for x:
3x=123x3=123x=4
Why couldn't Cam just subtract 3 to get the x by itself?
Choose 1 answer:

Brooke solved this problem incorrectly:

Solve for n:
n+4=5n+4+4=5+4n=9
Why is Brooke's work incorrect?
Choose 1 answer:

Solve a problem on your own

Solve for k:
k+4.2=5.9
k=
  • Your answer should be
  • an integer, like 6
  • a simplified proper fraction, like 3/5
  • a simplified improper fraction, like 7/4
  • a mixed number, like 1 3/4
  • an exact decimal, like 0.75
  • a multiple of pi, like 12 pi or 2/3 pi

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