Balance Principle Math Example 2
Follow the full solution, then compare it with the other examples linked below.
Example 2
mediumSolve \(3x - 4 = 14\) using the balance principle, showing all steps.
Solution
- 1 Add 4 to both sides: \(3x - 4 + 4 = 14 + 4 \Rightarrow 3x = 18\).
- 2 Divide both sides by 3: \(\frac{3x}{3} = \frac{18}{3} \Rightarrow x = 6\).
- 3 Check: \(3(6) - 4 = 18 - 4 = 14\) ✓
Answer
\(x = 6\)
Two-step equation: (1) undo subtraction by adding 4, (2) undo multiplication by dividing by 3. Always perform the same operation on both sides.
About Balance Principle
The rule that any operation applied to one side of an equation must also be applied to the other side to preserve equality.
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