Let's break down the phrase step by step to translate it into an equation.
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Identify the variable: Let the unknown number be represented by \( x \).
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Translate the phrase:
- "the product of a number and -2" translates to \( -2x \).
- "five less than the product of a number and -2" translates to \( -2x - 5 \).
- "is -13" translates to \( = -13 \).
Putting it all together, we get the equation: \[ -2x - 5 = -13 \]
- Now, solve the equation:
- First, add 5 to both sides to isolate the term with \( x \): \[ -2x - 5 + 5 = -13 + 5 \] \[ -2x = -8 \]
- Next, divide both sides by -2: \[ x = \frac{-8}{-2} \] \[ x = 4 \]
The solution to the equation is: \[ x = 4 \]