AlgebraVery hardSolving a literal equation
Algebra practice question
If a(x − b) = c, where a ≠ 0, which of the following expresses x in terms of a, b, and c?
- A. x = c/a + bCorrect
- B. x = (c + b)/a
- C. x = c/(a − b)
- D. x = (c − b)/a
Answer: A. x = c/a + b
Divide by a: x − b = c/a. Add b: x = c/a + b.
Why the other answers are wrong
- B. x = (c + b)/a
- Adds b before dividing, which changes the value.
- C. x = c/(a − b)
- Treats a(x − b) as (a − b)x.
- D. x = (c − b)/a
- Subtracts b instead of adding it, and inside the division.
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