What is the first step to solve the equation 2x + 5 = 11?a)Add 5 to bo...
To isolate the variable in the equation 2x + 5 = 11, the first step is to subtract 5 from both sides, resulting in 2x = 6. This allows us to further solve for x.
What is the first step to solve the equation 2x + 5 = 11?a)Add 5 to bo...
Understanding the Equation
The given equation is 2x + 5 = 11. To solve for x, we need to isolate the variable on one side of the equation.
Step-by-Step Explanation
1. Identify What to Isolate
- Our goal is to solve for x. The term "2x" is what we want to isolate.
2. Eliminate the Constant
- The first step to isolating 2x is to remove the constant term (5) from the left side of the equation.
3. Choosing the Correct Operation
- To eliminate the constant, we should subtract it from both sides. This means we will subtract 5 from both sides of the equation.
Why Option B is Correct
- Subtracting 5 from Both Sides
- When we subtract 5 from both sides, the equation becomes:
2x + 5 - 5 = 11 - 5, simplifying to 2x = 6.
- This step directly helps in isolating the term containing x.
Other Options Explained
- Option A: Add 5 to Both Sides
- This would give us 2x + 10 = 11, which complicates the equation further.
- Option C: Multiply Both Sides by 2
- This would lead to 4x + 10 = 22, again complicating the process.
- Option D: Divide Both Sides by 2
- This would not be effective at this stage since we have not yet isolated the term with x.
Conclusion
Thus, the first step to solving the equation 2x + 5 = 11 is indeed to subtract 5 from both sides, making option B the correct choice. This sets the foundation for further solving for x.