Solving Equations by Adding or Subtracting

Add and subtract are INVERSE operations
line with subtract pushing down on a line and add pushing up on a line

We use what mathematicians call inverse operations. An inverse operation is an operation that undoes another operation. Addition and subtraction are inverse operations for each other. For example, the inverse of adding 5 is subtracting 5. The inverse of subtracting 7 is adding 7.

Take a moment and think about it and relate it to prior knowledge.

7 + 6 = 13

13 - 7 = 6

These are related facts!

Now we know that inverse operations are what we use to help us solve equations. How can we solve equations using inverse operations?

To solve equations, you have to perform inverse operations to get the variable by itself. Remember- addition and subtraction are inverse operations. If an equation contains addition, solve it by subtracting from both sides to undo the addition. Similarly, if an equation contains subtraction, solve it by adding to both sides to undo the subtraction.

Let's take a look at the definition of addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division equations.

Solving an Addition Equation

To solve an addition equation, one must subtract the same number from each side of the equation so that the variable will be by itself on one side of the equation and the answer on the other side.

Example:

x+5=7
-5 -5
x=2

Solving a Subtraction Equation

To solve a subtraction equation, one must add the same number from each side of the equation so that the variable will be by itself on one side of the equation and the answer on the other side.

Hopefully, you noticed in the definitions that inverse operations were used to solve.

x-10=14
+10 +10
x=24

Now watch the video below for more on how to solve addition and subtraction equations.

Solving Equations by Adding or Subtracting Assignment

Download the "Solving Equations by Adding or Subtracting Assignment" by clicking here. Be sure to work all of the practice problems on paper. You will use these problems and solutions to complete the "Exploring Real-life Phenomena through One-Step Equations and Inequalities Homework Quiz 1." Remember you can always go back and review the lessons and videos for more help.

Once you've done the practice work, you can click here for the answer key to check it.

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