Question

Explain steps to solve -7 (z-2)-6=-3z

Answer 1

-7(z - 2) - 6 = -3z

Simplify.

-7z + 14 - 6 = -3z

Add like terms.

-7z + (14 - 6) = -3z

Simplify.

-7z + 8 = -3z

We're simply just trying to get "z" onto its own side of the equal sign. 

So, subtract 8 from both sides.

-7z = -3z - 8

Then, add 3z to both sides.

-7z + 3z = -8

Simplify.

-4z = -8

Finally, divide both sides by -4.

$\dfrac{\cancel{-4}\text{z}}{\cancel{-4}} = \dfrac{-8}{-4}$

Simplify.

z = 2

To check your work, simply plug in "2" for "z" in our original equation :

-7(z - 2) - 6 = -3z

Plug in 2 for z.

-7[(2) - 2] - 6 = -3(2)

Simplify.

-7(0) - 6 = -6

Simplify.

0 - 6 = -6

Simplify.

-6 = -6

L.H.S. = R.H.S.

Therefore, z = 2