Make x the subject of 2x/5-3b/4=x+5

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The discussion focuses on rearranging the equation 2x/5 - 3b/4 = x + 5 to isolate x. The correct method involves multiplying both sides by 20, the least common multiple of 5 and 4, resulting in the equation 8x - 15b = 20x + 100. After rearranging and simplifying, the final expression for x is x = -(15b + 100)/12. Participants emphasize the importance of correctly handling fractions and moving terms in algebraic equations.

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blackfriars
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hi to all
looking for some help to rearrange a formula to make x the subject
2x/5-3b/4=x+5

i moved +5 to the left and it became -5
i thought the negative 5 would cancel the denominator 5

this is what i thought i could do

2x-3b/4=x

-2x -2x

-3b/4 =-x
multiply both sides by -1 and the result i thought should be

3b/4=x
thanks in adv
 
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Yes i am
 
$$\frac{2x}{5} - \frac{3b}{4}=x+5$$

To clear fractions, multiply both sides of the equation by $20$, the $\text{lcm}$ of $5$ and $4$:

$$8x-15b=20x+100$$

Rearrange so $x$ is on its own on one side of the equation:

$$-15b-100=20x-8x$$

Simplify:

$$-15b-100=12x$$

Divide through by $12$:

$$x=-\frac{15b+100}{12}$$
 
Thanks for that all i can do is learn
Cheers
 
blackfriars said:
i moved +5 to the left and it became -5
i thought the negative 5 would cancel the denominator 5
Make up a simple case:
x/5 = 5 : evident that x = 25, right?
Now, move the 5 as you did:
x/5 - 5 = 0 : ok?
Cancel the denominator with the -5:
x = 0
BUT x = 25 : convinced?
 

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