Javon and Ivy are both given the equation `5-(2x-1)/3=4`. Javon thinks the first step is

`-(2x-1)/3=9` . Ivy thinks the first step is
`-(2x-1)/3=-1` . Who is incorrect and why?  

1 answer

To determine who is correct, let's analyze the given equation step by step:

The original equation is:

\[ 5 - \frac{2x - 1}{3} = 4 \]

To isolate the term \(-\frac{2x - 1}{3}\), we first need to subtract 5 from both sides of the equation:

\[ -\frac{2x - 1}{3} = 4 - 5 \]

Calculating the right side:

\[ -\frac{2x - 1}{3} = -1 \]

Now, we have:

\[ -\frac{2x - 1}{3} = -1 \]

Now let's compare this with the claims of Javon and Ivy:

  • Javon's first step: \(-\frac{2x - 1}{3} = 9\)
  • Ivy's first step: \(-\frac{2x - 1}{3} = -1\)

Ivy's conclusion is correct because, after subtracting 5 from both sides, the equation simplifies to \(-\frac{2x - 1}{3} = -1\).

Javon is incorrect because the calculation of \(4 - 5\) is \(-1\), not \(9\).

So, in conclusion:

Javon is incorrect. Ivy is correct.