Solving one-step equations is like unwrapping a present to find the variable! Your goal is to isolate the variable (like $x$ or $y$) on one side of the equation. To do this, you perform the inverse operation on both sides. Remember, whatever you do to one side, you MUST do to the other to keep the equation balanced! Think of it like a seesaw – you need to keep it level.
For example, to solve $x + 5 = 10$, you'd subtract 5 from both sides. To solve $3x = 12$, you'd divide both sides by 3. The key is understanding which operation 'undoes' the one in the equation!
Match the term with its definition. Write the corresponding number in the blank.
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| 1. Variable | A. The number that multiplies a variable. |
| 2. Constant | B. A symbol (usually a letter) representing an unknown value. |
| 3. Coefficient | C. Performing the opposite operation to isolate the variable. |
| 4. Equation | D. A statement that two expressions are equal. |
| 5. Inverse Operation | E. A fixed value that doesn't change. |
An equation is a mathematical statement showing that two expressions are ______. To solve an equation, you must ______ the variable. We use ______ operations to isolate the variable. For example, the inverse operation of addition is ______. Whatever you do to one side of the equation, you must do to the ______ side.
Explain in your own words why it's important to perform the same operation on both sides of an equation when solving for a variable.
Please log in to post your answer.
Log InEarn 2 Points for answering. If your answer is selected as the best, you'll get +20 Points! 🚀