There are several ways to start solving this equation. There are variables on both sides, and a number on the right side only. So, one way to start is to get all of the variables on one side, and keep the number on the other side. Which move can you make to move all of the j terms to the left, while keeping the equation balanced?
5j=3j−8
Add 8 to both sides
Add 3j to both sides
Subtract 3j from both sides
1 answer
To solve the equation \(5j = 3j - 8\), we want to move all of the \(j\) terms to one side of the equation. The best move to do this is:
Subtract \(3j\) from both sides.
This results in:
\[ 5j - 3j = -8 \]
Simplifying the left side gives:
\[ 2j = -8 \]
Now you can divide both sides by 2 to solve for \(j\):
\[ j = -4 \]
So, the value of \(j\) is \(-4\).
