Simplify and Solve Equations with Brackets

We know that we can solve linear equations to find an unknown value by doing the inverse to both sides.

 

For example:

 

 

In this activity, we are going to put a bracket into the equation.

It means one more move, but after that we do it the same way. Easy!

 

Here is one to prove how easy it is!

 

Example

Solve the equation

 

 

Before it looks like the ones above, we have to expand (multiply out) the bracket!

That is 3 times a and 3 times 5:

3 x a is 3a and 3 x 5 = 15

 

 

Now, it is just like the ones we have done before!

 

 

Let's try some more!