Half the sum of a certain number and 7 is equal to one quarter of the difference of the number from 3 find the number

1 answer

Let's call the certain number "x".

According to the problem:

(1/2)(x + 7) = (1/4)(3 - x)

To solve for x, we can first simplify the equation by getting rid of the fractions:

2(x + 7) = 4(3 - x)

Then distribute on both sides:

2x + 14 = 12 - 4x

Combine like terms:

2x + 4x = 12 - 14

6x = -2

Divide both sides by 6:

x = -2/6

Simplifying further:

x = -1/3

Therefore, the certain number is -1/3.