Equations with Parentheses, Decimals, & Fractions Quick Check

Question

What is the first step in solving for x in the equation 9.8 (x — 2.14) = 53.9
Divide only the left-hand side by 9.8.
Divide both sides by 9.8.
Add 2.14 to both sides.
Multiply both sides by 9.8.

Answer 1

To solve the equation \( 9.8 (x - 2.14) = 53.9 \), you should first isolate the expression inside the parentheses. The first step is to divide both sides by 9.8 to eliminate that coefficient from the left side.

So, the correct first step is:

Divide both sides by 9.8.

This simplifies the equation and allows you to solve for \( x \) more easily.