Question

1. solve for ( x ): ( 5x = 30 ). which property should be used for the next step?

a divide both sides by 5
b. subtract 5 from both sides
c multiply both sides by 5
d. add 5 to both sides
priority standard: hsa.rei.a.1 – explain each step in solving an equation and justify the method

Explanation:

Step1: Isolate x via inverse operation

To solve $5x=30$, we need to undo the multiplication of $x$ by 5. The inverse operation of multiplication by 5 is division by 5.

Step2: Apply operation to both sides

Divide each side of the equation by 5:
$\frac{5x}{5} = \frac{30}{5}$

Step3: Simplify to find x

$x = 6$, which confirms the correct first step is dividing both sides by 5.

Answer:

A. Divide both sides by 5