Question

Solving a Multistep Equation with Decimals
Finish the work to solve the equation and find the value for p.

2.5(–3p – 8) + 5p = 4(2.25p + 5.5) + 15.5

1.Use the distributive property:       –7.5p – 20 + 5p = 9p + 22 + 15.5

2.Combine like terms on each side:    –2.5p – 20 = 9p + 37.5

Use the properties of equality to finish solving the equation. What is the value for p?

p =

Answer 1

Starting from
-2.5p - 20 = 9p + 37.5

Move p-terms to one side:
-2.5p - 9p - 20 = 37.5 → -11.5p - 20 = 37.5

Add 20 to both sides:
-11.5p = 57.5

Divide by -11.5:
p = 57.5 / -11.5 = -5

Answer: p = -5