What value of satisfies the equation above?
For one-variable linear equations like this, focus on isolating x using inverse operations. First undo any multiplication or division affecting the parentheses, then simplify the equation and use addition or subtraction to get x alone. Always keep the equation balanced by doing the same operation on both sides, and if unsure, quickly check your answer by substituting it back into the original equation to see if both sides are equal.
Hints
Look at the structure of the equation
You have . What operation is being done to , and how can you undo that operation on both sides?
Simplify before solving for x
After you undo the multiplication by 5, you will get a simpler equation involving on one side and a number on the other. Think about what that number will be.
Isolate x step by step
Once you have an equation like , what should you add or subtract on both sides to get x alone?
Desmos Guide
Enter the equation
In Desmos, type 5(x - 2) = 15 as a single equation. Desmos will graph this as a vertical line at the x-value that makes the equation true.
Read the solution from the graph
Look at the x-coordinate where the vertical line appears; that x-value is the solution to the equation, and it should match one of the answer choices.
Step-by-step Explanation
Undo the multiplication by 5
Start with the equation:
To undo the multiplication by 5, divide both sides of the equation by 5:
This simplifies to:
Isolate x
Now solve the simpler equation:
Add 2 to both sides to get x alone:
Match with the answer choices
Simplify the right side to solve for x:
So the value of x that satisfies the equation is , which corresponds to choice D.