Mathematics Knowledge
Yesterday I presented a question in algebra which included fractions and solving for x.
The example is: If 5/3x – 3 = 32, what is the value of x?
One of the topics I cover as an ASVAB tutor is algebra with fractions. Solving for x involves separating the numbers from the letter x. Many people become overwhelmed with the thought of working with fractions with algebra. It is an extra step that people might need to review.
5/3x – 3 = 32
The first step is to add 3 to both sides.
5/3x -3 + 3 = 32 + 3
5/3x = 35
To get rid of the fraction in front of the variable, multiply by the reciprocal on each side
3/5 multiplied by 5/3 x = 35 multiplied by 3/5
x = 35/1 x 3/5
x = 105/5 = 21
