Karen M.

asked • 09/07/19

Do I combine like terms if I have | 3x + 5 | - 2x = 3x + 4? Does it matter if the - 2x is outside of the absolute value bars?

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James H. answered • 09/08/19

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Hey the other answer is incorrectly written, but his ideas are not incorrect. My video actually answers your question, rather than doing it for you :)

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Karen M.

thank you so so much!!!
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03/03/20

Mark M. answered • 09/07/19

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|3x + 5| - 2x = 3x + 4

|3x + 5| = 5x + 4


  1. Assuming 3x + 5 ≥ 0

3x + 5 = 5x + 4

1 = 2x

0/5 = x


  1. Assuming 3x + 5 < )

-(3x + 5) = 5x +4

-3x - 5 = 5x + 4

-9 = 8x

-9/8 = x


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Karen M.

Thank you! But, I need a few clarifications. 1. How is x = 0/5? 2. Also, I have been told before that I must do (3x + 5) = -5x - 4, so which should I actually do? I am very confused. Thank you!
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09/07/19

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