Writing equations

Question

Seventeen is 4 less than twice a number

Answer 1

Let N = the number

Translating "Seventeen is 4 less than twice a number".

17

Seventeen is

17 =

Seventeen is ... twice the number

17 = 2N

Seventeen is 4 less than twice the number.

17 = 2N - 4

Now, solve for N.

17 + 4 = 2N Adding 4 to both sides.

21 = 2N

21/2 = N Dividing both sides by 2 or multiplying both sides by 1/2. Either way.

10.5 or 10 1/2 is THE NUMBER

CHECKING:

Plug 10.5 for N in the equation 17 + 4 = 2N.

17 + 4 ? (2) (10.5)

21 = 21

Hope this helps you Vernadette.