How do you solve and check your solution given #b-5=13.7#?

1 Answer
Shantelle
Jun 14, 2018

#18.7#

Explanation:

#b-5=13.7#

To solve for the variable #b#, we need to isolate it (make it by itself). To do so, first, add #color(blue)5# to both sides of the equation:
#b-5 quadcolor(blue)(+quad5) = 13.7 quadcolor(blue)(+quad5)#

#b = 18.7#

Now to check whether our solution is correct, we just plug it back into the original equation and sees if both side equal. If they do, then we know our solution is correct:
#18.7 - 5 = 13.7#

Simplify the left hand side:
#13.7 = 13.7#

Therefore, we know that #18.7# is a valid solution.

Hope this helps!

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