Question

determine the steps to solve this equation.
2x-5=-21

Answer 1

To solve the equation \(2x - 5 = -21\), follow these steps:

1. **Add 5 to both sides**: This helps to isolate the term with \(x\).
\[
2x - 5 + 5 = -21 + 5
\]
Simplifying gives:
\[
2x = -16
\]

2. **Divide both sides by 2**: This will solve for \(x\).
\[
\frac{2x}{2} = \frac{-16}{2}
\]
Simplifying gives:
\[
x = -8
\]

3. **Check the solution**: Substitute \(x = -8\) back into the original equation to ensure it satisfies the equation.
\[
2(-8) - 5 = -21
\]
Simplifying the left side:
\[
-16 - 5 = -21
\]
Since both sides are equal, the solution is confirmed.

Thus, the solution to the equation \(2x - 5 = -21\) is \(x = -8\).