Five less than twice a number is equal to one half the difference of three times the number and 13. Find the number.

Question

I got 13 for my answer but I don't know if that is right, please help?

Answer 1

Hi Jordan,

 

Was this your equation?

 

2x - 5 = 1/2(3x - 13)

Answer 2

2x - 5 = (1/2)(3x - 13)

 

4x - 10 = 3x - 13           [multiply both sides by 2]

  x - 10 = -13                 [subtract 3x from both sides]

   x = -3                        [add 10 to both sides]

 

Check:

  Does     2(-3) - 5   = (1/2) (3(-3) -13)    ?

                -11    = (1/2)(-9-13)   ?

                 -11  = (1/2)(-22)    ?

                  -11  =  -11     ?yes