Question

How do you solve `32 - 2(11 - 8)2 = 36x`?

Answer 1

Use the Order of Operations to simplify!

Explanation:

Start by thinking about the Order of Operations:

Parenthesis
Exponents
Multiplication & Division
Addition & Subtraction

This will allow us to simplify before we start the algebra

`32-2(11-8)*2=36x`

Start with parenthesis

`32-2(3)*2=36x`

We have no exponents

Move to Multiplication & Division in the order they appear

`32-6*2=36x`

`32-12=36x`

Now let's do the Addition & Subtraction in the order they appear

`20=36x`

The equation looks much simpler now!

To solve for `x`, divide both sides by `36` to isolate `x`

`20/36=cancel36x/cancel36`

`5/9=x`