solving a simple equation

Thread Starter

Bigcountry

Joined Jul 4, 2008
76
I have having trouble with this simple for the last couple of days. I thought I almost had it but I got stumped again. Funny thing is I know the answer already but I just don't know how to solve it. My calculator doesn't have problem solving it either. So I hope someone can't shed the light on this.
here is the problem.


x multiple .25 + x = 17.5

I know x is the same number but I don't know how to arrive at the final answer.

here is the answer with the numbers already add

14 times .25 = 3.5 + 14= 17.5

I can't remember if I have came across this before. I feel kind dumb that I can't figure this out. I am beginning to think it is impossible. I think the problem I having mostly is because (x) is the same number and there is only one variable. The other problem maybe that I just realized I having is combining both x's. thank you for the solution. Because i know this is so easy but I just can't figure it out. what a way to start off a new years. :D
 
x is equivalent to 1 multiply x.

so you have (0.25 times x) plus (1 times x).

This can be factorised, as x is common to both terms, by taking x 'out of the brackets'

x(0.25 + 1) = 1.25x

After practice you will be able to do this instinctively, but that is the reason why it works.
 
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