How do you solve #-9( x + 5) = 81#?

2 Answers
Nov 27, 2016

x= -14

Explanation:

Distribute:
-9x - 45 = 81
Common factors:
-9x = 81 + 45
Solve for X
-9x = 126
x = 126/-9
x= -14

Nov 27, 2016

#x = -14#

Explanation:

First, divide each side of the equation by #-9#:

#(-9(x + 5))/-9 = 81/(-9)#

#(cancel(-9)(x + 5))/cancel(-9) = -9#

#x + 5 = -9#

Now subtract #5# from each side of the equation to solve for #x# while keeping the equation balanced:

#x + 5 - 5 = -9 - 5#

#x + 0 = -14#

#x = -14#