In the equation -x+4=32. How is x equal to -28 if -28+4=-24

Question

I need help for a homeschooling lesson.

Answer 1

Hi Seth,

 

 

-x+4=32

-x+4-4=32-4

 

-x=28

-x/-1=28/-1

 

x=-28

 

check:  -x+4=32

           -(-28)+4=28+4=32

 

So x=-28 is the solution of the equation.

Answer 2

-x + 4 = 32

-x + 4 - 4 = 32 - 4

 

-x = 28

-x / -1 = 28 / -1 

 

x = -28

 

You are asking this question: How is x equal to -28 if -28 + 4 = -24?

If x = -28, then substitute -28 into the equation for x:

 

-x+4=32

-(-28) + 4 = 32

28 + 4 = 32

32 = 32 Good, so x = -28 works.

 

The double negative sign is throwing you off.