Question

Which method correctly solves the equation using the multiplication property of equality and the reciprocal of One-third?

One-third (x + 9) = negative 12
One-third (x + 9 = negative 12. One-third x + 3 = negative 4. One-third x = negative 7. x = negative 27.


One-third (x + 9) = negative 12. x + 9 = negative 4. x = negative 13.


One-third (x + 9) = negative 12. x + 3 = negative 12. x = negative 15.


One-third (x + 9) = negative 12. x + 9 = negative 36. x = negative 45.

Answer 1

The correct method is the last one.

Work:
(1/3)(x + 9) = −12
Multiply both sides by 3 (reciprocal of 1/3): x + 9 = −36
Subtract 9: x = −45

(You can also distribute first: (1/3)x + 3 = −12 → (1/3)x = −15 → x = −45.)