How Can I Solve for x of y=cx+dx Using the Textbook Solution?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around solving the equation $$y = cx + dx$$ for the variable x, with participants referencing a textbook solution. The scope includes mathematical reasoning and clarification of steps involved in isolating x.

Discussion Character

  • Mathematical reasoning, Homework-related, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents the textbook solution $$x = \frac{y}{c+d}$$ and outlines their steps, questioning what they might be missing in their reasoning.
  • Another participant suggests factoring x from the right side of the equation, leading to the expression $$y = x(c+d)$$ and then dividing both sides by $(c+d)$ to isolate x.
  • A later reply acknowledges the method as a reverse distribution of multiplication over addition.
  • One participant highlights the importance of stating the condition $$c+d \neq 0$$ to avoid division by zero.
  • Another participant expresses appreciation for the clarification and humorously notes their reliance on the discussion for learning.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the steps to isolate x, but there is no explicit consensus on the clarity of the initial participant's reasoning or the completeness of their understanding.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations regarding the assumptions made about the values of c and d, particularly concerning the condition $$c+d \neq 0$$, which is necessary for the division to be valid.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for students seeking to understand algebraic manipulation and the process of isolating variables in equations.

Rujaxso
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$$y = cx + dx$$ solve for x textbook solution:$$x = \frac{y}{c+d}$$my steps:

$$\frac{y}{c + d}=\frac{cx + dx}{c + d}$$ here I divide to isolate x

$$\frac{y}{c + d}= x + x$$ simplifed

$$\frac{y}{c + d}=2x$$ adding the two x'sWhat am I missing here?
 
Last edited:
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$y = cx+dx$

factor $x$ from the two terms on the right side of the equation ...

$y = x(c+d)$

divide both sides by $(c+d)$ ...

$\dfrac{y}{c+d} = x$
 
Thanks Skeeter,

basically reverse distribution of multiplication over addition I guess.
 
Rujaxso said:
$$y = cx + dx$$ solve for x textbook solution:$$x = \frac{y}{c+d}$$my steps:

$$\frac{y}{c + d}=\frac{cx + dx}{c + d}$$ here I divide to isolate x

$$\color{red}{\frac{y}{c + d}=\frac{x(c+d)}{c + d}}$$

$$\color{red}{\frac{y}{c + d}=\frac{x(\cancel{c+d})}{\cancel{c + d}}}$$

see above
 
Thanks, got you the first time, I was just trying to confirm the rule/move in English by my 2nd post.
 
And if you want to wow your teacher, add the proviso, "for $c+d\not=0$."
 
Should I be more impressed by the use of the word proviso? =)

btw you guys and this textbook is the closest thing to a teacher I have right now. Prepare for an onslaught and flurry
of annoying questions in the future.
 

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