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Basic Math/Algebra for my HS daughter

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Expert: - 9/15/2005


Question
Seems I have forgot a lot since algebra class. (30+ years ago)  Every time I try to solve the following equation, I arrive at a different answer.

3x-[2x-(x+5)+3(4x-1)]

I remember the order of operation, but not sure of simplifying as I go.

Answer
Hello Eric,

First, that is not an equation...for it to be an
equation it must have an equal sign in it...i.e. it
must be "equal" to something.  So, all we can do with
it for now is to simplify it.

First we perform distributive inside the the brackets:
3x-[2x-(x+5)+3(4x-1)] = 3x-[2x-x-5+12x-3]
now collect like terms: 3x-[13x-8] = 3x-13x+8 = -10x+8

OK?

Abe

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Abe Mantell

Expertise

Hello, I am a college professor of mathematics and regularly teach all levels from elementary mathematics through differential equations, and would be happy to assist anyone with such questions!

Experience

Over 15 years teaching at the college level.

Organizations belong to
NCTM, NYSMATYC, AMATYC, MAA, NYSUT, AFT.

Education/Credentials
B.S. in Mathematics from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
M.S. (and A.B.D.) in Applied Mathematics from SUNY @ Stony Brook

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