Question

1. -8 = 4 + 3a - a

Explanation:

Step1: Simplify like terms

Combine the \(a\)-terms on the right side: \(3a - a = 2a\), so the equation becomes \(-8 = 4 + 2a\).

Step2: Subtract 4 from both sides

Subtract 4 from each side: \(-8 - 4 = 4 + 2a - 4\), which simplifies to \(-12 = 2a\).

Step3: Divide by 2

Divide both sides by 2: \(\frac{-12}{2} = \frac{2a}{2}\), so \(a = -6\).

Answer:

\(a = -6\)