Linear Equations in One Variable
Linear equations in one variable are one of the fundamental concepts of algebra. Let's learn what these equations are, how they can be solved, and how they apply to real-life situations.
What is a linear equation in one variable?
A linear equation in one variable is an equation that can be written in the following form:
ax + b = 0
In this equation:
x
is the variable.a
andb
are constants.- The exponent of
x
is 1, which makes this a linear equation.
Examples of linear equations in one variable
Linear equations can take different forms, but they all represent a straight line when plotted on a graph. Here are some examples:
1. 2x + 3 = 7 2. -5x = 10 3. x/2 - 5 = 0
Solving linear equations in one variable
Solving a linear equation means finding the value of the variable that makes the equation true. Let's look at the steps to solve these equations.
General steps of the solution:
- Simplify both sides of the equation separately by distributing and combining like terms.
- Move all terms belonging to the variable to one side of the equation.
- Move all constant terms to the opposite side of the equation.
- Isolate the variables by dividing or multiplying them to get the solution.
Example 1: Solving 2x + 3 = 7
Follow the following steps to solve the equation:
Step 1: Subtract 3 from both sides 2x + 3 - 3 = 7 - 3 2x = 4 Step 2: Divide both sides by 2 2x/2 = 4/2 x = 2
Thus, the solution for x
is 2.
Example 2: Solving -5x = 10
Step 1: Divide both sides by -5 -5x/-5 = 10/-5 x = -2
The solution of this equation is x
= -2.
Example 3: Solving x/2 - 5 = 0
Step 1: Add 5 to both sides x/2 - 5 + 5 = 0 + 5 x/2 = 5 Step 2: Multiply both sides by 2 2 * (x/2) = 5 * 2 x = 10
This gives the solution x
= 10.
Viewing linear equations in one variable
Visualization makes linear equations easier to understand. Consider the equation 2x + 3 = 7
:
Here, you can see the intersection of the line 2x + 3 = 7
with the x-axis, where x
equals 2. This point represents the solution graphically.
Applications of linear equations in real life
Linear equations are not just theoretical concepts but have a variety of practical applications, including:
- Financial planning: Budgeting income and expenses often involves solving equations.
- Construction: Calculating length, width and cost of materials using linear equations.
- Science: Formulas relating to speed, distance, and time can often be represented by linear equations.
Example: Budget planning
Suppose you earn $5000 per month and plan to save some amount every month. After setting aside your savings and paying all expenses, you are left with $1500. If we assume x
savings, the equation is as follows:
5000 - x = 1500
Solve for savings x
:
Step 1: Move expenses to the opposite side -x = 1500 - 5000 -x = -3500 Step 2: Multiply by -1 to isolate xx = 3500
So, the savings is $3500.
Conclusion
Linear equations in one variable are important for developing problem-solving skills in mathematics. They are applicable in many areas of life, providing efficient methods for solving quantitative problems.
By understanding the basic structure and solving techniques, equations become less abstract and more practical tools for tackling everyday challenges. Continue practicing with different examples, visualizations, and real-life scenarios to achieve mastery.
Practice problems
Try solving these yourself:
- Solve the equation:
3x - 4 = 11
- Solve the equation:
4x + 2 = 10
- Solve the equation:
-x/3 = 5
- If you spend $200 on groceries and save $100 out of your $1000 income, write down and solve the equation for your expenses.