homework

[alexanderd]

trying to help grandchild with homework.how doyou work out the value of x in the following 5x-5 =13x-61. Many thanks

[TWR]

5x-5=20 13x-61=793-732 (I think)

[oldbillbuck]

swop sides and change signs gives

-5+61=13x-5x

56=8x
x = 7

[quinie]

13x-5x=61-5
8x=56
x=7
Sorry,not very good at explaining.I think there's a retired maths teacher out there who can explain.

[Prudie]

oldb and quinie are correct (I'm an ex maths teacher but not retired!)
You collect the x terms on one sde of the equal sign and the numbers on the other. Anything that has to change sides also has to change sign (from +&-)
Then add the terms up till you get
-8x = -56
same as 8x = 56 so x is 7.

[quinie]

Hi,Prudie,thanks for the explanation.I can still remember algebra,etc- not bad after sixty odd years-had a wonderful teacher.
Think buenchico? is the retired maths teacher but maybe not.

[Prudie]

buenchico did teach maths, doesn't now but he's not retired either, factor30 does now. think I've got that right!

[alexanderd]

Many thanks for answers, sorry to be late in replying,I am no longer with grand-daughter but grateful for replies. Will know next time she asks me!!