Solving One-Step Equations
Multiplication Equations
The next set of one-step equations do not contain a constant that you must add or subtract to remove.
These equations contain a coefficient. A coefficient is a number that is multiplied by the variable.
Therefore, we must remove the coefficient. Take a look at this equation: 3x = 9. Since there is no mathematical symbol between the 3 and the x we know that means multiplication. So, what number times 3 will give us an answer of 9?
You know the answer, right? Yes, 3! 3*3 = 9
Another question to ponder...
What is the opposite of multiplication? Yes... division!
We are going to divide in order to get x by itself!
Why divide? What is 3/3? Yes... 1! What is 1*x? You got it.... x! That's how we get x by itself.
We want the coefficient to be 1. Anytime you divide a number by itself, you will get an answer of 1!
Let's look at a few examples:
Example 1- One-step Multiplication Equations
Pretty easy, huh? I think multiplication equations are even easier than addition and subtraction equations. Keep working, you'll get the hang of it!
Example 2 - Working with Negative Numbers
Not too hard if the coefficient is an integer! What happens if the coefficient is a fraction?
What Happens When the Coefficient is a Fraction?
Think:
If I have 2/3x, how can I make 2/3 a coefficient of 1?
Yes... you will divide by 2/3, but...Do you remember the term reciprocal?
When you divide a fraction, you actually multiply by the reciprocal. If you take 2/3 and you flip it to 3/2, that is the reciprocal!
If you multiply by the reciprocal, you will have a coefficient of 1.
Example 3: Multiplication Equations with a Fraction Coefficient
You may also have problems where your answer results in a fraction. Here's one more example:
Example 4: Multiplication Equations
In this lesson, you learned a new vocabulary word, "coefficient" and hopefully you now have a better understanding of how to solve multiplication equations.
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