54 greater than x is greater than 216

Answer 1

Hi Wendy! To solve this problem, you really need to focus on the verbiage and understand that it is an inequality (denoted by the "is greater than" phrase).

"54 greater than x is greater than 216"

This translates to the following: 54 + x > 216

Although you may be more comfortable writing x + 54 > 216

Now you isolate the variable 'x' by subtracting 54 from both sides.

Now x > 162!

NB**Since no division or multiplication is needed, you don't have to worry about flipping the inequality sign (be cautious of this key step during your later inequality lessons).