If 3 less than 5 times a number is 4 less than that same number, what is the value of the number?

Mathematics · Middle School · Sun Jan 24 2021

Answered on

Given the statement:

3 less than 5 times a number is 4 less than that same number

Determine the value of the number.

Solution:

In order to determine the value of the number, we must first represent the given.

5x - 3 = x - 4

In order to solve for x, we transpose -3 and  x to the opposite sides of the equation, hence it must be taken to note that in transposing a number, the sign changes.

5x - x = -4 + 3

4x = -1

Divide both sides by 4 in order to determine the value of x.

4x/4 = -¼

x = -¼

Final answer:

x = -¼