Question

Now that you have all the variables on the right, you can start thinking about how to make sure all the constant numbers are only on one side. What move can you make to get rid of the 9 on the right, so that 8x is alone on the right side, while keeping the equation balanced?
5
1
​
(5x−15)
=
9x+9

x − 3
=
9x + 9
−
x
−
x

−3
=
8x + 9

Divide both sides by 9

Add 9 to both sides of the equation

Subtract 9 from both sides of the equation

Answer 1

To isolate \(8x\) on the right side of the equation while keeping the equation balanced, you should **subtract 9 from both sides of the equation**.

Starting from your equation:
\[
-3 = 8x + 9
\]

If you subtract 9 from both sides, you will get:
\[
-3 - 9 = 8x + 9 - 9
\]
This simplifies to:
\[
-12 = 8x
\]

Now \(8x\) is alone on the right side.