How do you solve #abs(x+3) = 5#?

1 Answer
Jim G.
Aug 2, 2018

#x=-8" or "x=2#

Explanation:

#"the expression inside the absolute value can be positive"#
#"or negative, hence there are 2 possible solutions"#

#x+3=color(red)(+-)5#

#x+3=5rArrx=5-3=2#

#x+3=-5rArrx=-5-3=-8#

#color(blue)"As a check"#

Substitute these values into the left side of the equation and if equal to the right side then they are the solutions.

#x=2to|2+3|=|5|=5#

#x=-8to|-8+3|=|-5|=5#

#x=-8" or "x=2" are the solutions"#

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