Chapter 0: Problem 73
Solve for \(x,\) given that \(a, b,\) and \(c\) are real numbers and \(a \neq 0\) $$a x+b=c$$
Short Answer
Expert verified
The solution is \(x = \frac{c-b}{a}\).
Step by step solution
01
Start with the Given Equation
The problem gives us the linear equation \(a x + b = c\). Our goal is to solve this equation for \(x\).
02
Isolate the Term with x
First, we need to get the term involving \(x\) by itself on one side. To do this, subtract \(b\) from both sides of the equation: \[a x = c - b\]
03
Solve for x
Since we need to find \(x\), divide both sides of the equation by \(a\) to isolate \(x\): \[x = \frac{c-b}{a}\].
04
Confirm the Solution
Verify this solution by substituting \(x = \frac{c-b}{a}\) back into the original equation. Calculating \(a \left( \frac{c-b}{a} \right) + b = c\), we simplify to find \(c\). Hence, the solution is correct.
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Key Concepts
These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.
Isolation of Variables
The key to solving linear equations like \( ax + b = c \) is to skillfully isolate the variable of interest, which in this case is \( x \). This ensures that we focus exclusively on solving for \( x \) by getting rid of any other terms cluttering its path. Here's how you can achieve that:
- Subtracting Terms: Start by moving constants to the other side of the equation. For example, subtract \( b \) from both sides to clear it from the left side, giving us \( ax = c - b \).
- Dividing by Coefficients: Once \( x \) is free from additions or subtractions, manage any multiplication. Since \( a \) is multiplied by \( x \), divide both sides by \( a \) to isolate \( x \), resulting in the expression \( x = \frac{c-b}{a} \).
Verification of Solutions
Verification is a crucial step to ensure the solution to a linear equation is accurate and valid. Neglecting this step may yield incorrect answers that could act as misleading conclusions.
Here's how to verify your solutions effectively:
Here's how to verify your solutions effectively:
- Substitution: Once you determine \( x \), plug it back into the original equation. In our example, substitute \( x = \frac{c-b}{a} \) into \( ax + b = c \).
- Simplification: Simplify the equation to check if both sides are equal. Calculate \( a\left( \frac{c-b}{a} \right) + b \). The result should simplify back to \( c \).
Linear Equation Steps
Breaking down the solution process into clear, manageable steps is essential when tackling linear equations. This structured approach makes solving equations systematic and less daunting.
Here is a simplified step-by-step plan:
Here is a simplified step-by-step plan:
- Identify the Equation: Start by precisely understanding the given equation, just like \( a x + b = c \) in our example.
- Isolate the Variable: As described previously, move terms and divide coefficients to single out the variable. After isolating, we have \( x = \frac{c-b}{a} \).
- Verification: Perform a quick check by substituting \( x \) back into the starting equation to ensure consistency and correctness.