Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Absolute Value
Absolute value represents the distance of a number from zero on the number line, regardless of direction. It is denoted by vertical bars, such as |x|, and is always non-negative. Understanding how to manipulate absolute values is crucial for solving equations that involve them, as they can yield two possible cases based on the value of the expression inside the absolute value.
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Linear Equations
A linear equation is an equation of the first degree, meaning it involves only linear terms and can be expressed in the form ax + b = c. Solving linear equations involves isolating the variable on one side of the equation. In the context of the given problem, recognizing how to rearrange and simplify the equation is essential for finding the value of x.
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Isolating the Variable
Isolating the variable is a fundamental technique in algebra where the goal is to get the variable alone on one side of the equation. This often involves performing inverse operations, such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, or division, to both sides of the equation. Mastering this concept is key to solving equations effectively, especially when dealing with absolute values and multiple steps.
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