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Study Guides > Prealgebra

Introduction to Solving Equations Using the Subtraction and Addition Properties of Equality

An image of a calder mobile is shown. It has several black and red geometric shapes hanging down. A Calder mobile is balanced and has several elements on each side.
Teetering high above the floor, this amazing mobile remains aloft thanks to its carefully balanced mass. Any shift in either direction could cause the mobile to become lopsided, or even crash downward. In this chapter, we will solve equations by keeping quantities on both sides of an equal sign in perfect balance.  

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this section, you will be able to:
  • Solve equations using the Subtraction and Addition Properties of Equality
  • Solve equations that need to be simplified
  • Translate an equation and solve
  • Translate and solve applications
 
Before you get started in this module, try a few practice problems and review prior concepts.

Readiness Quiz

1) If you missed these problems, review the video below. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yqdlj0lv7Cc 3) If you missed these problems, watch the video below for a reminder. https://youtu.be/Hub7ku7UHT4
We are now ready to "get to the good stuff." You have the basics down and are ready to begin one of the most important topics in algebra - solving equations. The applications are limitless and extend to all careers and fields. Also, the skills and techniques you learn here will help improve your critical thinking and problem-solving skills. This is a great benefit of studying mathematics and will be useful in your life in ways you may not see right now.

Licenses & Attributions

CC licensed content, Original

  • Write Algebraic Expressions from Statements: Form ax+b and a(x+b). Authored by: James Sousa (Mathispower4u.com) for Lumen Learning. License: CC BY: Attribution.

CC licensed content, Shared previously

  • Ex: Solve One Step Equations By Add and Subtract Whole Numbers (Variable on Left) . Authored by: James Sousa (Mathispower4u.com). License: CC BY: Attribution.
  • Calder mobile. Authored by: istolethetv. Located at: https://www.flickr.com/photos/istolethetv/270351725/. License: CC BY: Attribution.
  • Question ID 2351. Authored by: David Lippman. License: CC BY: Attribution. License terms: IMathAS Community License, CC-BY + GPL.
  • Question ID 141712, 140454. Authored by: Lumen Learning. License: CC BY: Attribution. License terms: IMathAS Community License, CC-BY + GPL.

CC licensed content, Specific attribution